Early-stage and scaling brands are getting comfortable operating with smaller internal teams, AI-supported workflows, and more agentic ways of working. Fewer people doing more work with better systems behind them.

The small and mid-market 3PLs leaning into the same style of work are separating themselves from more traditional operators. Faster implementations. Faster analysis. Better visibility. Less dependence on adding headcount every time complexity increases. Whether right or wrong, this translates to comfortability and a feeling of operational alignment for a brand.

I think the same thing is going to happen on the technology side.

The providers building for SMB and boutique 3PLs, while embracing these workflows themselves, are going to keep taking share from slower and more traditional software companies.

What's trending

Small and Midmarket 3PLs are moving AI into live warehouse operations

📦 At ShipHero’s Insider Summit, operators were discussing AI connected directly into live WMS environments rather than basic document search and chatbot workflows.

📦 One tangible example demonstrated using Claude against live WMS data to evaluate workforce performance and identify temp labor worth converting to full-time employees.

📦 API accessibility and data structure are becoming just as important as the interface itself. Tech forward brands who move with agility and value AI workflows will prioritize providers who also embrace this way of working.

The New Warehouse →

Import volumes rebound while de minimis changes hit DTC brands

📦 U.S. port imports are projected up 9.3% year over year in May, the first meaningful rebound after multiple softer quarters.

📦 At the same time, the de minimis exemption for Chinese imports has ended. Sub-$800 shipments now face tariffs that materially change the economics for many DTC brands.

📦 More brands are shifting away from ultra-lean inventory models and asking 3PLs about multi-location inventory positioning and faster intake capacity.

NRF / Sourcing Journal → | Dedola Logistics →

Stord raises $250M as the race around fulfillment infrastructure accelerates

📦 Stord announced a $250M Series F at a $3B valuation after significant growth across both fulfillment and software revenue. The company now processes more than $15B in GMV annually.

📦 Alongside the raise, Stord launched Stord Labs, focused on testing AI and robotics models against live production fulfillment operations before broader deployment.

📦 The positioning is becoming clearer across the market. More providers are trying to give independent brands enterprise-level fulfillment infrastructure without forcing them fully into Amazon’s ecosystem.

PR Newswire →

Partner Spotlight: International Bridge

Shipping to non-continental and APO addresses can be challenging and expensive. But customers in these locations are a large opportunity for most e-commerce brands. Especially as traditional parcel and small package providers are material changing their rate structures for lightweight shipment.

International Bridge, Inc. delivers cost-effective, reliable shipping solutions to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico—offering air service at ground rates.

Their service helps shippers improve consistency, reduce costs compared to traditional carriers, and tap into the overlooked e-commerce potential of these non-continental domestic markets, including Alaska’s $2.1 billion spend.

Interested in learning more? Reply to this email to get connected with the team at International Bridge and see the full conversation here.

Opportunities in Fulfillment