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Seminar Report: Embracing 4PL for Transparent Logistics

In the world of logistics, the question of efficiency and transparency has never been more crucial. Funai Soken Logistics, one of Japan's largest logistics consulting firms, recently hosted an online seminar titled "The Key to Eliminating Multiple Subcontracting is 4PL!" on October 15, 2025. The event aimed to address the pressing issues in the logistics industry, focusing on how 4PL can provide solutions to the challenges faced by shippers today.

Understanding the Need for Change

Many companies are struggling with rising logistics costs and declining service quality. These issues stem from opaque pricing models and inefficient communication within the supply chain, often exacerbated by layered subcontracting. During the seminar, it became evident that attending organizations shared several common concerns:

• - Continuous increases in logistics costs are squeezing profits.
• - Complex relationships with 3PL providers lead to inefficient management processes.
• - Many companies recognize existing problems in their logistics operations but are unsure where to begin improving.
• - The impending challenges posed by legal changes and rising fuel prices have created growing anxiety about the future.
• - Organizations are eager to implement new strategies but lack partners capable of providing effective, strategic proposals.

Seminar Session Overviews

The seminar consisted of three core presentations, each designed to provide insights into the necessity of adopting 4PL approaches in logistics:

Session One: Identifying the Root Causes of Subcontracting Problems

The first session delved into the logistics industry’s systemic issues, revealing how multiple layers of subcontracting lead to inefficiencies. Key points included:

• - The challenges faced by the logistics industry and the need for rigorous regulatory compliance.
• - An analysis of why regular price revisions continue to be necessary.
• - The specific logistical problems caused by layered subcontracting practices.

Session Two: The Engine of Structural Reform - Understanding 4PL

In the second session, speakers emphasized that 4PL is essential for bringing about significant structural change in logistics. This segment highlighted the differences between 3PL and 4PL:

• - Guidance on which 3PL providers are suitable for specific business needs.
• - An in-depth look at 4PL’s roles and how they differ from traditional 3PL services.

Session Three: Roadmap to a Post-Subcontracting Era

The final session focused on actionable steps for companies to transition towards a more equitable and sustainable logistics framework with 4PL as a partner. Key discussions included:

• - Critical structural defects introduced by 3PLs.
• - The urgent need to transition from 3PL to 4PL.
• - Why 4PL should be viewed as a valuable option moving forward.

Conclusion: Commitment to a New Era in Logistics

As Funai Soken Logistics continues to lead discussions around best practices in the logistics sector, it aims to empower shippers by facilitating connections and providing insights necessary for future success. With the extensive participation of senior executives from various shipping companies, this seminar marked a significant step towards establishing a new standard in logistics—one that embraces transparency and efficiency through a strong 4PL approach.

For more information about Funai Soken Logistics and to stay updated on industry trends, visit their website and follow them on X and Facebook.