The manufacturer and distributor of building materials decided that owning a fleet of trucks wasn't a core competency. It looked to Ryder to close the gap, with a dedicated offering that goes well beyond the booking and movement of freight.

The big merchandiser looked to Genco to provide a system for the rapid and efficient processing of merchandise that's designated for redeployment, return to vendor and liquidation.

The big maker of flatscreen TVs cuts logistics costs and boost sales, by offering product discounts in exchange for bulk buys by retailers. A partnership with C.H. Robinson makes the program work.

When Esquire Express got into the same-day delivery market 25 years ago, it primarily moved documents for law firms, says President Steve Howard. The internet killed that business, but it also created a new market in same-day delivery of tangible goods. Esquire has thrived by partnering with 3PLs and their retail clients to deliver the same day.

The goal for 3PLs always is to negotiate a win/win contract with existing and new customers, says Mike Bautch of Universal. He offers insights and examples on how to create win/win relationships that keep improving over the years.