An elite group of just 25 3PLs increasingly dominate logistics outsourcing around the world, and that is just how their customers like it. This closed club promises to become even more exclusive in the years ahead as acquisitions concentrate the power among fewer but larger 3PLs.

While logistics outsourcing may seem like a mature business concept, five smaller 3PLs show how new concepts, better technology and outstanding performance can bring new benefits to companies open to fresh ideas.

For "complexity masters," the world can be a dependable supplier and profitable market. But lackluster business performance is an unpleasant side effect for companies ill prepared for globalization and mounting value-chain complexity.

U.S.-based 3PLs are stepping up their international supply-chain capabilities to keep their customers competitive in the new global economy.