"For over a decade, Barrett has been more than just a logistics partner; they've been an extension of our company. Barrett facilitated our expansion onto the West Coast, enabling quicker turn times for our screen-printed goods. Their communication was solid from day one, and the onboarding process was seamless. Barrett's communication and commitment to our success made us feel they were right next door, treating our business as their own. This partnership played a crucial role in our growth during the first several years, demonstrating the effectiveness of a truly aligned 3PL service."
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Barrett Distribution Centers
15 Freedom Way
Franklin, MA 02038
508-553-8800
Late Shipments?
Inaccurate Inventory?
Trust Barrett to run your supply chain so you can focus on growing your brand.
FULFILLMENT
Barrett offers advanced Omnichannel, B2B and Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) eCommerce fulfillment solutions, completely dedicated to your brand.
TRANSPORTATION
Managed Transportation Solutions including the Barrett Parcel Program utilizes advanced rate shopping tools and negotiated carrier discounts to ensure an optimized, cost-effective shipping experience for your customers.
WAREHOUSING
Strategic warehouse locations across the United States optimized for speed and efficiency, combined with the advanced automation and storage methodologies - all at your disposal.
WAREHOUSE LOCATIONS
EMPLOYEES
YEARS IN BUSINESS
CLIENTS SERVED
WAREHOUSE LOCATIONS
Barrett Distribution currently operates 25+ facilities across the United States. With over 6 million square feet of space specifically designed for warehousing, distribution, transportation and omnichannel eCommerce fulfillment, Barrett will scale your brand to ensure success.
E-COMMERCE FULFILLMENT
Since 1941, Barrett Distribution Centers has provided customized third-party (3PL) logistics, omnichannel distribution, transportation, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) eCommerce fulfillment services for clients across all industries.
NOBULL
Oofos
nuuds
Shark Ninja
Carhartt
fanatics
Jelly Belly
Kohler
bmw
Waterdrop
“The Barrett team does a great job of being flexible and responsive to all of our logistics needs. They are literally available 24/7, and I can always count on my contacts picking up the phone whenever I call, night or day. Ken’s Foods exists in a dynamic manufacturing environment, and we continually challenge Barrett with last minute changes to our just in time world, both in supporting our packaging operation and managing outbound distribution. Our mutli-year relationship, started small and each year we do more with Barrett, as they have become a reliable and trusted asset in helping us manage the tremendous growth we experience annually.”
Jim Bourne, Sr. Director @ Ken's Foods
"As a young, growing DTC eCommerce brand, Barrett can help us grow in any direction we want. Everything we'd heard about Barrett was evident during our site visits. Their operational team and leadership exhibited unparalleled agility and understanding of our unique needs as a brand. The fact that Barrett pursued us with such vigor made us feel genuinely valued."
Rob Fletcher, Co-Founder @ nuuds.com
"For the past 5+ years, Barrett Distribution has been such a wonderful partner for johnnie-O. Nothing is ever perfect in supply chain, however as you’re entering new marketplaces and scaling a large, DTC brand, nothing is more important than working with a partner that demonstrates a “get stuff done” mentality. Recommend the Barrett team 100%"
Dave Gatto, CEO @ Johnnie-o.com
"When I was looking for a new 3pl, I needed a partner that had a proven track record of shipping fast and managing inventory accurately. Barrett's emphasis on continuous improvement and deploying advanced technologies really stood out amongst the competition. They have been an amazing partner."
Steven Schweighofer, VP Operations @ Stadium Goods
"Barrett stood out in our extensive search for 3PL providers, thanks to its advanced technological infrastructure and profound grasp of our global operational intricacies. However, the heart of Barrett's appeal was its family-owned, employee-driven culture, evident during our thorough site evaluations. The onboarding process, led by their seasoned team, reinforced our confidence in choosing Barrett as a partner who promises and delivers exceptional service."
Daniel Lydon, Sr. Director of Supply Chain at 3EO Health
"We chose Barrett for three core reasons: their family-owned heritage aligns with our values of caring for our team, their expertise in providing high-touch services and their commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience."
Margaret Moraskie, CEO @ Levenger.com
“The people we work with at Barrett really care about the success of Vibram. Their partnership and support have been critical to our rapid growth.”
Mike Gionfriddo | CEO Vibram, USA
"When we launched, our vision was clear, but our logistical needs were complex and evolving. That's where Barrett came in, not just as a service provider, but as a true partner in our journey. From handling the complexities of new product lines like footwear to managing the intricacies of special packaging for collaborations, they are with us every step. I think Barrett comes across as this huge conglomerate, but actually, it’s a really big, small company. They're an extension of our team, deeply invested in our success."
Sue Fuller, CEO of The Oliver Thomas
One of the most significant rewards of being at Barrett is witnessing the strong partnerships we create with our clients. As a third-generation 3PL provider, we know that trust is the foundation of every client relationship. Our values are rooted in transparency, exceptional service and a strong commitment to accountability. Here’s how we prioritize trust and client satisfaction to build meaningful partnerships that drive long-term success. Transparency as Trust Trust isn’t built by avoiding challenges; it’s built by tackling them together. We believe in transparency, especially when things don’t go perfectly. As an “open book” company, every team member has access to our financials. This openness builds a culture of accountability that we extend to every client's relationship. If a setback occurs, we address it directly, communicate openly and stay focused on resolving it. This commitment strengthens our relationships and shows our clients we’re always dedicated to their success. One-Call Resolution Customer service drives our client retention strategy. We’ve trained over 200 employees in a concept we call “one-call resolution.” This approach means that when a client reaches out, we make it our responsibility to see the issue through to completion. Our clients know that once we take on a concern, we’re accountable until it’s resolved. Our approach goes beyond swift solutions; it’s about prioritizing, respecting, and valuing our clients—deepening loyalty and trust with every interaction. Adaptable Service Our client relationships are unique, and how we handle challenges reflects that individuality. Our open-book management system empowers everyone on the team to take ownership of client relationships. Whether a situation calls for a quick phone call, an in-person meeting, or a tactical solution, we adapt to what’s best for our clients. We listen carefully, address concerns directly and offer solutions that make our clients feel heard. This approach strengthens our performance and builds genuine connections with our clients. Dedicated Support Our focus on personalized service means that our clients have dedicated support staff within our facilities. This approach moves beyond the typical call center setup and allows us to build closer, more attentive relationships. Our team members often work directly with one to three clients, providing support that promotes meaningful connections. To continuously improve, we also gather feedback from regular client surveys, which are reviewed at every level within the company. It’s our way of ensuring that we’re always listening to our clients and evolving to meet and exceed their needs. Conclusion At Barrett, our commitment to trust, client-centricity and personalized service forms the core of everything we do. These practices benefit our clients and fuel our growth as a company, showing the power of a true, long-term 3PL partnership. Are you looking for a reliable logistics partner? Contact us today to connect with a Barrett 3PL expert and learn more about our personalized solutions.
Each brand's supply chain has its unique “recipe” for success, with ingredients carefully tailored to meet their needs and goals. At Barrett Distribution, we think of ourselves as the master chefs of 3PL. What does this mean? It means we're ready to take on the logistics of “cooking” so you can savor the benefits of a high-performing, personalized fulfillment experience without the stress. So, let’s look at our approach to cooking up a recipe for your brand’s success. The Ingredients for Success: What Makes the Barrett Recipe Unique Creating a top-tier logistics strategy requires the right blend of expertise, consistency and adaptability. Here’s a look at some of the key ingredients that go into each of our client solutions: 1.Reliable Fulfillment – The “Meat and Potatoes” of Your Logistics Strategy Every successful meal has a foundation, and in logistics, reliable fulfillment is ours. Ensuring orders are fulfilled accurately and on time is non-negotiable, so we’ve built our operations around trust and consistency. With Barrett, your customers receive their orders exactly as expected, reinforcing your brand’s reputation and loyalty. 2. Customization – Adding Your Unique Flavor with Value-Added Services Just as each chef has a unique style to their cooking, every brand has distinct needs. Customization is at the heart of what we do. From specialized packaging to handling unique SKU requirements, we take the time to understand what makes your brand stand out and bring those elements to life. At Barrett, we aim to complement your brand’s “flavor” so that each fulfillment step feels like a natural extension of your business. 3. Flexibility – Adapting to Your Needs in Real Time Every great recipe can benefit from a tweak here and there, and a successful 3PL strategy thrives on flexibility. With market demands constantly changing, Barrett offers the scalability required to meet shifting needs; whether it’s a surge during peak seasons or a refined approach during quieter times. We keep our processes as adaptable as you need them, so you never have to compromise on quality or timing. 4. Transparency – Ensuring You Can See Each Step of the Process One of the best parts of a great meal is knowing what’s in it; and at Barrett, transparency is key. With Barrett’s advanced tracking and communication systems, we keep you informed every step of the way. You’ll always know where your products are, allowing you to share accurate updates with your customers. It’s our way of giving you a “taste test” as we go, so you can rest assured every element is up to your standards. Putting It All Together: Serving Up Success At Barrett, we see ourselves as an extension of your brand. We’re not just here to handle your supply chain—we’re here to enhance your brand’s story, ensure your customers receive the desired experience and allow you to focus on what you do best. We combine our specialized ingredients into a logistics “recipe” prepared just for you. So, why stress over your supply chain when you can let Barrett cook up a strategy personalized just for you? By partnering with us, you can focus on what matters: growing your brand, nurturing customer relationships and watching your business scale and thrive. Ready for a Taste Test? We’d love to show you firsthand how Barrett can become the logistics partner you’ve been searching for. Let’s connect, discuss your unique needs, and craft a unique solution for your brand. Because in our kitchen, your success is always the main course. At Barrett Distribution, we’re committed to excellence. Contact us to learn how we can help you create the perfect logistics solution.
As your e-commerce or omnichannel business expands, regular reviews of your fulfillment logistics strategy will be necessary. The right fulfillment model can streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction and boost profitability—but the wrong one can create bottlenecks and added costs. Here’s a guide to help you evaluate which model suits your business best and align your fulfillment strategy with your goals. What Is 3PL Fulfillment? Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) offer businesses end-to-end supply chain solutions by managing your warehousing, picking and packing, shipping and often customer returns. If your company has complex logistics needs or is experiencing rapid growth, outsourcing to a 3PL partner can bring scalable expert support that helps you maintain high-quality service. Benefits of 3PL Fulfillment: Scalability and Flexibility: 3PLs adapt to your business’ changing needs, expanding your capacity during peak seasons or scaling back during slower periods. Advanced Technology and Expertise: The top 3PL providers use cutting-edge logistics technology and possess deep industry expertise, helping businesses stay efficient without heavy tech investment. Focus on Core Competencies: Freeing your team from logistical complexities allows them to prioritize core business activities like product development and marketing. Potential Drawbacks of 3PL: Less Control: Relying on a third party means losing some operational oversight, which can concern companies with unique handling requirements or customer service standards. Integration Challenges: Synchronizing a 3PL’s technology and processes with your own can pose initial challenges, requiring setup time and communication alignment. At Barrett, our IT experts work closely with your team to address compatibility issues from day one. We optimize data flow and establish reliable processes, so your operations remain uninterrupted and efficient. What Is In-House Fulfillment? In-house fulfillment involves handling all logistics activities within your organization. You retain full control over inventory, warehousing and order processing. Companies with predictable demand and more specialized handling needs or those who want to maintain complete oversight of their operations often choose in-house fulfillment. Benefits of In-House Fulfillment: Total Control: In-house operations mean businesses retain oversight on every fulfillment aspect, from packing to shipping. Brand Experience: For brands focused on delivering a unique hands-on experience to customers, in-house fulfillment allows customization that may be harder to achieve through a 3PL. At Barrett, we offer tailored solutions that mirror the high-touch experience you aim to deliver. From customized packaging to personalized handling, Barrett ensures that every step reflects your brand’s standards and creates memorable customer experiences. Data Ownership: Companies handling fulfillment internally have direct access to fulfillment data, enabling real-time adjustments and insights. Potential Drawbacks of In-House Fulfillment: High Operational Costs: Renting space, hiring staff and investing in logistics tech add up. Overhead costs can escalate as demand grows, especially without economies of scale. Resource Intensive: Managing an in-house fulfillment team and process diverts significant resources from other business areas, making it challenging for smaller teams. Scalability Limitations: Scaling in-house fulfillment to match high-volume periods such as holiday seasons can strain resources and lead to delays. Deciding Factors: When to Choose 3PL vs. In-House Fulfillment While both models have their merits, a few deciding factors can help guide you: Volume and Demand Fluctuations If your business experiences seasonal spikes or fluctuating order volumes, a 3PL can offer flexible support without requiring additional space or staff. Budget Constraints 3PLs often require less upfront capital than establishing an in-house operation. With a 3PL, costs are variable based on usage, while in-house expenses are primarily fixed. Control Requirements In-house fulfillment may offer the best solution for companies that need total control to deliver a specific brand experience or meet unique handling requirements. However, it’s important to note that 3PLs like Barrett offer personalization and VAS services. Growth Goals Rapidly growing companies benefit from 3PL's scalability, which provides the infrastructure to expand into new regions or handle increased order volumes without the stress of constant reinvestment. Making the Right Decision The choice between 3PL and in-house fulfillment ultimately depends on your business's needs, resources and goals. At Barrett Distribution, we see firsthand how the right logistics partnership can elevate a company, whether it’s through efficiency, customer experience or sheer operational power. Consider your long-term vision and how each model aligns with your strategy. You can choose a fulfillment model that drives your success by evaluating these factors. Whether you're looking to outsource or improve your in-house capabilities, the key is understanding your priorities and selecting a solution that aligns with your growth trajectory. Reach out to Barrett for a deeper insight into how we can support your fulfillment journey.
According to a 2022 Third-Party Logistics study of over 300 respondents, 73% of shippers (3PL users) reported that partnering with a 3PL has enhanced their customers' experiences while introducing innovative ways to improve logistics effectiveness. Even more impressive, 86% of shippers agreed that using a 3PL has led to greater cost-efficiency in their logistics operations. Over the past decade, the logistics industry has undergone significant shifts, with a surge in 3PL providers aiming to capitalize on the global market’s expansion. But buyers, beware—not all 3PLs are created equal. With countless options, how do you make the right choice? Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you navigate the selection process and find the best 3PL partner for your business. 1. Industry Experience One of the first things to consider when choosing a 3PL partner is their experience in your industry. Look for a provider that understands logistics and has expertise in your specific market. For example, we specialize in e-commerce, retail and omnichannel fulfillment at Barrett. This deep knowledge allows us to anticipate and address industry-specific challenges. Checklist: Does the 3PL have experience in your industry? Can they provide case studies or references from similar clients? Do they understand the seasonal peaks and trends specific to your business? 2. Scalability Your business will evolve, and your 3PL partner should be able to grow with you. Flexibility and scalability are essential, whether you’re expanding into new markets or scaling up during peak seasons. Checklist: Can the 3PL accommodate your growth? Do they offer flexible solutions that can adapt to your changing needs? Are their facilities and technology systems equipped to handle future expansions? Barrett Partnership Testimonial: "The Barrett team does a great job of being flexible and responsive to all our logistics needs. Ken’s Foods exists in a dynamic manufacturing environment, and we continually challenge Barrett with last-minute changes to our just-in-time world, supporting our packaging operation and managing outbound distribution. Our multi-year relationship started small, and each year we do more with Barrett as they have become a reliable and trusted asset in helping us manage the tremendous growth we experience annually." — Jim Bourne, Sr. Director @ Ken’s Foods 3. Technology and Innovation Technology is crucial to supply chain success. A 3PL partner should provide cutting-edge solutions for real-time tracking, inventory management and data analytics to ensure efficiency and transparency across the supply chain. Our advanced systems offer real-time tracking, giving customers complete visibility into their shipments from origin to destination. This transparency allows for proactive decision-making and swift problem resolution, ensuring potential disruptions are handled before they impact your business. Checklist: Does the 3PL offer advanced technology for inventory and order management? Can you track your shipments and inventory in real-time? Do they provide data-driven insights to help optimize your operations? 4. Geographical Reach Where are your customers located? Does your 3PL have the network to meet those demands? Whether your business operates regionally, nationally, or internationally, your 3PL provider needs a robust and strategically placed network to support your growth. Barrett, for example, offers a comprehensive footprint across key logistics hubs in the United States, with a network of over 26+ locations in cities such as Boston, Los Angeles, Memphis and Dallas. Checklist: Does the 3PL have strategically located facilities that align with your customer base? Do they offer global solutions if your business operates internationally? How quickly can they deliver to your key markets? 5. Customization, Personalization and Flexibility Every business is unique, and your 3PL partner should offer value-added services tailored to your specific needs. From personalized packaging to custom fulfillment services, flexibility in operations is key to ensuring that your brand identity is maintained throughout the customer experience. Our capabilities extend to services like personalized kitting, custom engraving, embroidery and branded packaging—ensuring that your products make an impact from the moment they reach the consumer. With Barrett’s personalized solutions, as a 3PL provider, we become an extension of your brand, helping you deliver products and memorable customer experiences that reinforce your market presence. Checklist: Can the 3PL tailor its services to match your business model? Do they offer value-added services like kitting, assembly, or custom packaging? Are they willing to adapt to your brand’s specific requirements? 6. Customer Service and Communication Communication is the cornerstone of a successful 3PL partnership, and at Barrett, we pride ourselves on our commitment to one-call resolution. Our teams are trained to be proactive and empowered to make decisions, so when you reach out to Barrett, you're not just getting a representative—you’re engaging with a logistics expert who understands your business and can take immediate action. Whether you’re looking for real-time updates on your shipment, need to address an unexpected challenge, or require a quick adjustment to your fulfillment process, Barrett’s focus on one-call resolution means that your concerns are prioritized and handled swiftly. Checklist: Is there a dedicated point of contact for your account? How responsive is the 3PL in addressing issues or concerns? Do they offer proactive communication during disruptions or delays? 7. Cost Transparency While cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, working with a 3PL that provides transparent pricing is crucial. Hidden fees or unexpected charges can negatively impact your bottom line. Checklist: Is their pricing structure straightforward and easy to understand? Do they offer a breakdown of all potential fees? Can they help you find cost-saving opportunities without sacrificing service quality? 8. Reputation and Stability Finally, choosing a 3PL with a solid reputation and a proven track record is essential. Barrett has been in business since 1941, giving us over 80 years of experience in the supply chain industry. Barrett’s long history isn’t just about experience—it’s about trust. Over the decades, we’ve built strong relationships with our clients by consistently delivering results, innovating our services and staying ahead of industry trends. Our ability to evolve while maintaining the highest service standards has allowed us to navigate industry challenges and shifts, proving that we’re not just here for the short term but committed to long-term success for our partners. Checklist: How long has the 3PL been in business? Do they have positive reviews and testimonials from other clients? Are they financially stable and capable of supporting your growth? Conclusion Choosing the right 3PL partner is more than just ticking boxes—it’s about finding a provider who can act as a true extension of your business. At Barrett Distribution Centers, we pride ourselves on being a partner who not only delivers operational excellence but also shares your vision for success. Looking to explore how Barrett’s solutions can help your business scale and simplify your supply chain? Contact us today to chat with one of our experts.
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