Growth is supposed to be a good problem until your systems can’t keep up.
More clients mean more SKUs, more carriers, more delivery promises, and more exceptions to manage. Without the right tools, scale doesn’t just add volume; it exposes every weakness in your operation.
According to PwC’s 2025 Digital Trends in Operations Survey, 92% of operations and supply chain leaders say their technology investments haven’t fully delivered expected results, mainly because of integration complexity and data issues.
In other words, many logistics teams have software, but it doesn’t work together well enough to support real-world execution.
Cloud-based 3PL software is built for this exact moment. It unifies orders, inventory, routing, and tracking into one real-time platform that scales as fast as your operation does. Instead of firefighting, logistics teams finally get control and the ability to grow without breaking things.
In this guide, we break down the 7 best cloud-based 3PL software platforms that actually address these operational pain points and scale without adding more complexity to an already demanding operation.
A Quick Overview of the Top 3PL Cloud Software
Before diving deep, here’s a quick snapshot of the top cloud-based 3PL software leading the logistics and fulfillment industry today.
- FarEye - Cloud platform for automated, real-time delivery and 3PL operations.
- Descartes - Cloud logistics suite for routing, transport, and carrier management.
- DispatchTrack - Real-time delivery routing and last-mile optimization tool.
- Aptean - Cloud 3PL and warehouse management system for multi-client operations.
- LogiNext - AI-driven logistics automation and real-time tracking platform.
- Bringg - Delivery orchestration software for carrier integration and fulfillment.
- Wise Systems - AI-powered routing and dispatch automation platform.
Our Top Picks
- FarEye - Best for end-to-end 3PL delivery automation
- Descartes - Good for global transportation and carrier management
- DispatchTrack - Good for last-mile delivery optimization
Why Trust Us?
Our research team evaluates 3PL and logistics software using a transparent, data-backed methodology designed to help businesses make confident decisions. Every recommendation is based on independent testing, user feedback, and industry relevance.
Tools considered: 32
Tools reviewed in-depth: 18
Top tools selected: 7
How We Chose the Best 3PL Cloud Software
To curate this list, we looked closely at what matters most to 3PL providers, eCommerce businesses, warehouse managers, and freight coordinators who rely on real-time visibility and automated workflows every single day.
Built for Real 3PL Challenges
We looked for solutions designed to handle daily operational pressure. Platforms had to provide true real-time visibility and support fast decision-making across warehouses, carriers, and last-mile delivery.
Core Evaluation Criteria
We evaluated each solution based on the following factors:
- Cloud-native architecture that scales easily without heavy IT dependency
- Integration strength with WMS, TMS, ERPs, and carrier networks
- Automation and intelligence that reduce manual planning and firefighting
- Reliability at scale, especially during peak volumes and growth phases
Ease of Use and Adaptability
Beyond technology, we assessed usability. The strongest platforms empower operations teams to configure workflows, respond to disruptions, and adapt processes without constant custom development.
Top 7 Cloud-Based Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Software
Here’s a closer look at the seven cloud-based 3PL platforms that stood out in our analysis.
1. FarEye
FarEye is a cloud-based logistics orchestration platform that helps you manage and optimise the entire order-to-delivery cycle. If you’re running a 3PL operation, coordinating multiple carriers, or handling high delivery volumes, the platform gives you tools to simplify routing, automate repetitive tasks, and keep everyone, from drivers to customers, in the loop.
FarEye focuses on last-mile excellence: dynamic route planning, carrier allocation, EV routing for sustainability, and multimodal tracking that reduces WISMO calls and missed deliveries.
The platform’s dashboards display shipment status at every stage, and its APIs connect with carrier systems, WMS/ERP, and eCommerce platforms to keep data synced and actions automated.
In short, Fareye helps your business deliver more reliably, efficiently, and sustainably.
- AI-Powered Dynamic Routing & Dispatch: Automatically plans and updates routes using live traffic data, delivery windows, SLA commitments, vehicle capacity, driver skill sets, and real-time execution constraints.
- Carrier Management & Intelligent Allocation: Centralises carrier onboarding, performance tracking, and automated allocation.
- Real-Time Tracking & Dynamic ETAs: Provides continuous location tracking and recalculates ETAs as conditions change. Visibility is shared across operations teams and customer-facing tracking pages.
- Predictive Analytics & Control Tower: Monitors 60+ operational metrics, highlights SLA risks, and triggers alerts for potential disruptions.
- Sustainability & EV Routing: Supports electric vehicle routing, charging constraints, and carbon-aware planning.
- Multi-Client & Multi-Mode Operations: Designed for 3PL environments where you manage multiple clients, pricing models, SLAs, and transport modes from a single platform.
- Pre-Built Integrations & Open APIs: Connects with WMS, OMS, ERPs, carrier systems, and marketplaces to automate data exchange and reduce manual touchpoints.
- Capacity Forecasting & Network Planning: Helps you forecast fleet requirements, simulate demand changes, and plan network or territory adjustments up to 12 months ahead.
- Customer Experience & Notification Management: Enables branded tracking pages, configurable notifications, and exception messaging to reduce inbound queries.
- Cloud Scalability & Security: Built on a microservices architecture to support high transaction volumes, uptime reliability, and secure data handling.
Pros:
- Highly configurable workflows: Many users appreciate how easy it is to customize delivery workflows, routing logic, and business rules without heavy engineering effort.
- Strong route optimization: Reviewers often highlight noticeable improvements in routing efficiency, fuel usage, and on-time delivery rates.
- Good customer support responsiveness: Several users mention helpful onboarding and fast resolution times from the support team.
Cons:
- Learning curve: It may take some time to get comfortable with the more advanced features and dashboards.
- Potentially overwhelming for small teams: If your delivery operations are very simple, the platform can feel heavy.
Did you know?
FarEye’s cloud logistics platform is trusted by customers across 30 countries and has supported more than 1.5 billion deliveries worldwide, including major global brands in e-commerce, retail, and logistics, such as AWS marketplaces, Tata Steel, etc.
2. Descartes
Descartes is a cloud-based logistics platform designed for supply chains that extend across borders and transportation networks. Instead of relying on separate tools for routing, documentation, and visibility, Descartes consolidates these capabilities into a single cloud environment.
Through a broad API and EDI network, the platform stays connected to carriers, customs agencies, ERPs, and warehouse systems, helping you maintain consistent data and control across global operations.
- Routing, Mobile & Telematics: Advanced route planning combined with driver communication and real-time fleet monitoring.
- Transportation Management System (TMS): Supports planning and execution across truckload, LTL, parcel, ocean, and air.
- B2B Connectivity & EDI Messaging: Automates data exchange for orders, shipment updates, invoices, and customs documentation across a large partner network.
- Customs & Regulatory Compliance: Handles automated customs filings, denied party screening, trade document validation, and regulatory checks for international shipments.
- Global Trade Intelligence: Provides access to tariff classifications, restricted party lists, trade regulations, and compliance data to reduce risk and shipment errors.
Pros:
- Strong platform reliability: Users frequently point to stability, uptime, and dependable performance.
- Robust compliance capabilities: Automated customs and regulatory tools are a key strength for cross-border operations.
- Extensive integration network: Easy connectivity with carriers, customs authorities, and enterprise systems.
Cons:
- User interface feels dated: The UX is often described as functional but less modern than newer platforms.
- Customization may require vendor support: Configuration changes sometimes depend on Descartes’ team.
3. DispatchTrack
DispatchTrack helps teams plan optimized routes, track drivers in real time, and keep customers informed throughout the delivery process. It gives operations teams real-time visibility into what’s happening on the ground, allowing them to react quickly to delays and maintain accurate ETAs.
With integrations across ERPs, POS systems, carrier tools, and eCommerce platforms, delivery data stays synchronized from route planning through final drop-off.
- Real-Time Delivery Tracking: Shows live driver location, stop status, and delivery progress across all routes.
- AI-Driven Route Optimisation: Automatically builds routes based on traffic patterns, geography, service windows, and fleet constraints.
- Customer Communication & Notifications: Sends automated SMS and email updates with dynamic ETAs and delivery status.
- Driver Mobile App & Proof of Delivery: Provides drivers with turn-by-turn routes, task updates, and digital proof-of-delivery capture.
- Delivery Management Dashboard: Gives dispatchers a central view of routes, exceptions, and active deliveries.
Pros:
- Highly effective routing engine: Multiple reviews mention reduced miles driven and smoother daily route planning.
- Reliable mobile app: Drivers often praise the stability and ease of the app during navigation and delivery execution.
- Improved customer communication: Automated updates significantly reduce support calls and improve the delivery experience.
Cons:
- Customization limitations: Some users feel certain workflows or dashboards could offer more advanced customization options.
- Occasional syncing delays: A few reviewers note delays between the mobile app and the dispatcher dashboard.
4. Aptean
For organizations managing inventory accuracy, multi-client fulfillment, dock scheduling, and high-volume picking, Aptean's cloud-based WMS brings structure and control to daily workflows. It helps warehouses streamline processes, maintain accurate stock levels, and scale operations without chaos.
3PLs, distributors, and growing fulfillment centers rely on Aptean to manage the countless small decisions that impact accuracy, cost, and customer satisfaction. The result is a system that reduces manual effort, minimizes errors, and helps teams operate more efficiently.
- Warehouse Management & 3PL Execution: Provides end-to-end warehouse control, covering inbound receiving, inventory management, order processing, and outbound shipping.
- Real-Time Inventory Tracking & Accuracy: Continuously tracks inventory quantity, status, and location across the warehouse.
- Configurable Fulfillment Workflows: Supports receiving, put-away, picking, packing, shipping, returns, and reverse logistics.
- Integrated Supply Chain & Transportation Options: Aptean’s broader suite includes transportation and supply chain modules.
- Compliance, Traceability & Controls: Provides lot tracking, traceability, and compliance support for industries with regulatory requirements or audit needs.
Pros:
- Strong inventory control: Many users report improved stock accuracy and fewer picking or fulfillment errors.
- Well-suited for complex 3PL operations: Handles multi-client setups, varied SKUs, and different fulfillment rules effectively.
- Flexible warehouse workflows: Supports a wide range of warehouse activities without forcing rigid processes.
Cons:
- Mixed user feedback on user interface/usability: some users find the interface and workflow configuration somewhat complex, especially initially.
- Smaller number of public reviews for certain modules: For some editions or modules, user feedback on tools and long-term stability can be limited, which may make evaluation harder.
5. LogiNext
LogiNext uses automation and AI, making it an ideal fit for companies that want their delivery operations to move faster and smarter. If you’re dealing with high order volumes, tight delivery windows, or a mix of scheduled and on-demand deliveries, the platform helps you move away from manual planning and toward data-driven execution.
For eCommerce brands, courier networks, and fast-moving delivery operations, LogiNext provides the visibility and automation needed to scale without adding proportional operational overhead.
- AI-Driven Route Planning & Optimization: Builds and continuously optimizes delivery routes using address data, traffic patterns, vehicle capacity, delivery windows, and external factors.
- Real-Time Tracking & Dynamic ETAs: Displays live vehicle and driver movement on a centralized dashboard, with ETAs that update automatically.
- Automated Order Allocation & Dispatch: Assigns orders to the most suitable driver or vehicle based on proximity, capacity, availability, and priority.
- Driver App with Proof of Delivery: Enables drivers to capture signatures, photos, or delivery confirmations directly in the app.
- Centralized Operations Dashboard & Analytics: Provides a single view of routes, drivers, shipments, exceptions, and KPIs.
Pros:
- Efficient routing & cost savings: Users often report reduced fuel use and time per delivery thanks to AI-driven route optimisation.
- Reliable real-time visibility: The live tracking and dynamic ETA features get frequent praise for improving operational control and delivery transparency.
- Useful for both scheduled and on-demand deliveries: Reviewers highlight how the flexibility supports diverse business models.
Cons:
- Feature richness can be overwhelming: For very small teams or low-volume delivery needs, some users find the breadth of features more than required.
- Dependence on correct data entry and address accuracy: Route optimization and allocation rely heavily on accurate address and order data; bad data can reduce effectiveness.
6. Bringg
Bringg is a cloud-based delivery orchestration platform that focuses on helping businesses stitch together all the moving parts of fulfillment carriers, drivers, orders, stores, warehouses, and customer touchpoints.
Rather than forcing deliveries into a single rigid workflow, Bringg lets you orchestrate how orders flow between stores, warehouses, carriers, and customers. It integrates with existing eCommerce platforms, ERPs, WMS tools, and external fleets, allowing you to automate routing, dispatch, and tracking without replacing your core systems.
- Delivery Orchestration & Workflow Automation: Automates order routing, carrier selection, and dispatch based on cost, service levels, and operational rules, reducing manual coordination across teams.
- Multi-Carrier Connectivity & Allocation: Integrates with a wide network of carriers and delivery partners, enabling dynamic carrier matching and performance-based allocation.
- Real-Time Tracking & Customer Visibility: Provides live delivery status, dynamic ETAs, and proactive notifications for both operations teams and customers, helping reduce support volume.
- Omnichannel Fulfillment Support: Orchestrates deliveries, pickups, and returns across stores, fulfillment centers, dark stores, and last-mile partners from one system.
- Driver & Fleet Management Tools: Supports routing, driver tracking, dispatching, and mobile app workflows for teams operating their own delivery fleet.
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities: Easily connects with eCommerce platforms, ERPs, WMS tools, and third-party carriers.
- Flexible workflows: Adapts well to curbside, store fulfillment, multi-carrier, and hybrid delivery models.
- Improved customer visibility: Many reviews mention better communication, fewer support tickets, and more transparent delivery tracking.
Cons:
- Setup can be complex: Initial configuration may require careful planning, especially in multi-carrier environments.
- More suitable for larger operations: Pricing and feature depth tend to favor mid-size to enterprise businesses over very small teams.
6. Wise Systems
Instead of manually building routes or constantly adjusting plans throughout the day, Wise Systems automates most of the heavy lifting, from sequencing stops to updating ETAs in real time. It’s popular with fleets that handle recurring routes, scheduled deliveries, or field service operations that need reliability and predictability day after day.
What makes Wise Systems stand out is its continuous optimization engine. It learns from historical delivery patterns, traffic trends, and driver performance to make smarter routing decisions over time. And when conditions change, it instantly recalculates routes to keep your delivery plan on track without requiring constant dispatcher intervention.
- AI-Driven Route Optimisation: Automatically sequences and optimises routes using traffic data, delivery windows, driver preferences, and fleet constraints.
- Real-Time Tracking & Dynamic ETAs: Provides live vehicle visibility and recalculates ETAs as conditions change.
- Automated Dispatch & Driver Assignment: Assigns orders based on availability, proximity, historical performance, and workload balance.
- Driver Mobile App & Proof of Delivery: Guides drivers through routes with navigation, delivery instructions, and digital proof-of-delivery.
- Exception Management & Auto-Replanning: Automatically adjusts routes when disruptions like traffic delays, cancellations, or urgent add-ons occur.
Pros:
- Consistent, reliable routing: Routes become more predictable as the system learns from historical data.
- Driver-friendly app: Drivers often mention clear navigation and simple proof-of-delivery workflows.
- Improved on-time performance: Many teams see fewer missed windows and more dependable delivery schedules.
Cons:
- Less flexible for highly irregular workflows: Best suited for structured delivery patterns.
- Automation takes getting used to: Teams may need time to trust AI-based dispatch decisions.
What Is 3PL Cloud Software?
3PL cloud software is a centralized, web-based platform that helps third-party logistics providers manage warehousing, transportation, and fulfillment operations without relying on expensive on-premise systems.
Because everything runs in the cloud, teams can access real-time inventory, orders, and delivery data from anywhere, making it easier to scale, automate tasks, and keep customers updated.
In Simple Terms
3PL cloud software:
- Connects orders, inventory, transportation, and billing
- Automates planning, execution, and tracking
- Replaces manual processes with real-time visibility
It’s how today’s logistics providers manage complexity without slowing down.
How Does 3PL Cloud Software Work?
3PL (Third-Party Logistics) cloud software is essentially the digital command center for logistics providers. It connects orders, warehouses, carriers, drivers, and customers into one real-time system, so operations stay fast, accurate, and scalable.
Here’s how it works, step by step
1. Orders Flow Into the System
Everything starts with an order.
- Orders sync automatically from ecommerce platforms, ERPs, marketplaces, or retail systems
- Manual uploads and APIs handle bulk or custom orders
- Each order includes SKUs, quantities, delivery windows, and service requirements
The software becomes the single source of truth for every shipment.
2. Inventory & Warehouse Operations Are Managed Centrally
Once orders arrive, the platform checks inventory across locations.
- Real-time inventory visibility by SKU, lot, or batch
- Smart picking strategies (wave, batch, zone picking)
- Barcode/RFID scanning to reduce errors
- Packing rules, cartonization, and labeling are handled automatically
This ensures faster fulfillment and fewer mistakes inside the warehouse.
3. Transportation Planning & Optimization
After packing, the system plans how orders move.
- Automatic carrier selection based on cost, SLA, or speed
- Route optimization for last-mile and line-haul deliveries
- Rate shopping across carriers
- Dock scheduling and load planning
Instead of manual spreadsheets, routing and dispatch happen in seconds.
4. Dispatch, Tracking & Real-Time Visibility
Once shipments are on the move, the software tracks everything live.
- Driver apps capture proof of delivery (POD), signatures, and photos
- GPS-based tracking with real-time ETAs
- Automated alerts for delays, exceptions, or failed deliveries
- Customers and shippers can self-track shipments
5. Billing, Invoicing & Financial Reconciliation
As deliveries are completed, the system closes the loop.
- Automatic billing based on contracts, zones, weight, or services
- Accessorial charges are applied without manual work
- Invoices generated and shared digitally
- Cost vs margin analysis per customer or route
This reduces revenue leakage and speeds up cash flow.
6. Analytics & Performance Reporting
Finally, the platform turns operations into insights.
- On-time delivery performance
- Warehouse productivity metrics
- Cost-per-order and profit analysis
- SLA compliance and carrier scorecards
This data helps 3PLs optimize operations and win higher-value contracts.
Key Features of Cloud-Based 3PL Software
Modern 3PL operations depend on software that can move as fast as their supply chains. The features below highlight how these platforms streamline execution and improve decision-making across the entire logistics lifecycle.
Order Management & Integrations
Order management is the foundation of cloud-based 3PL software. Orders flow automatically from ecommerce platforms, ERPs, marketplaces, and retail systems through APIs or EDI connections. This keeps order data consistent across teams.
Warehouse Management System (WMS)
The WMS manages all warehouse activities in real time. Inventory is tracked across multiple locations and clients, while picking, packing, and labeling workflows are optimized for speed and accuracy. Barcode and RFID scanning ensure the right products are shipped every time, even during high-volume periods.
Transportation Management System (TMS)
The TMS controls how goods move once orders are packed. It handles carrier selection, route planning, rate comparison, and load optimization. By automating transportation decisions, 3PLs can reduce costs while meeting delivery timelines and service-level agreements.
Cloud Scalability & Security
Because the platform is cloud-based, it scales easily with business growth and seasonal demand. New customers, warehouses, and users can be onboarded quickly without heavy IT overhead. Security, backups, and software updates are handled continuously to ensure reliability and compliance.
Real-Time Tracking & Visibility
Cloud-based 3PL platforms provide live visibility from dispatch to final delivery. ETAs update automatically, delivery exceptions are flagged early, and proof of delivery is captured digitally.
Billing, Invoicing & Contract Management
Billing is directly tied to operational data. The system applies customer-specific rate cards, calculates accessorial charges, and generates accurate invoices as soon as deliveries are completed. This reduces billing disputes and helps 3PLs maintain healthy margins.
Analytics & Performance Reporting
The software tracks on-time delivery rates, warehouse productivity, transportation costs, and SLA compliance. These insights allow 3PLs to improve efficiency, demonstrate performance to customers, and make data-backed decisions.
Multi-Client & Role-Based Access
Cloud-based 3PL software is built for multi-tenant operations. Each client has secure, separated data access, while internal teams see only what’s relevant to their role. Customer portals allow clients to place orders, track shipments, and view reports independently.
Benefits of Using 3PL Cloud Software
3PL cloud software helps logistics teams streamline operations, automate fulfillment, improve real-time visibility, reduce delivery costs, and scale faster with secure, cloud-based infrastructure. It strengthens efficiency, accuracy, and customer experience across the entire supply chain.
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Real-Time Visibility & Better Control
One of the biggest advantages of cloud-based 3PL software is the ability to see everything as it’s happening, such as inventory updates, shipment progress, delivery status, and warehouse activity. This real-time visibility helps teams make quicker decisions, prevent delays, and keep both clients and customers informed without constant back-and-forth communication.
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Reduced Costs & Less Operational Overhead
Because everything runs on the cloud, businesses don’t have to worry about servers, hardware, or on-premise maintenance. The system updates automatically, scales as needed, and helps reduce manual work through automation, all of which contribute to lower operating costs and more streamlined logistics workflows.
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Faster, More Accurate Fulfillment
Cloud-based 3PL tools automate many time-consuming tasks like order allocation, routing, picking, packing, and dispatching. This reduces human error and speeds up fulfillment, helping logistics teams stay consistent even during peak seasons. The end result is more reliable operations and happier customers.
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Scalability for Growing Logistics Needs
Whether a 3PL manages a single warehouse or multiple sites across different regions, cloud infrastructure makes scaling much easier. As the number of clients, orders, or delivery routes grows, the system adapts automatically so there is no downtime, no system overload, and no expensive IT upgrades.
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Better Customer Experience & Clear Communication
Cloud software keeps everyone in the loop. Clients get real-time tracking, customers receive proactive updates and accurate ETAs, and support teams no longer deal with endless WISMO calls. When operations are transparent and predictable, customer satisfaction naturally improves.
FarEye: Your Go-To Cloud-Based 3PL Software
FarEye is built for logistics teams that want a smarter, more connected way to run delivery operations. Instead of juggling multiple tools for routing, dispatch, tracking, and customer updates, FarEye brings everything into one cloud-based platform that’s easy to scale and simple for teams to use. It’s designed for modern 3PLs that need real-time visibility, flexible workflows, and reliable automation to keep deliveries running smoothly.
You can customize workflows with its low-code builder, manage multi-client operations without complexity, and use AI-powered routing to cut miles and improve on-time performance.
It also offers real-time tracking, dynamic ETAs, automated carrier allocation, and a powerful control tower that helps teams fix issues before they become delays.
Here’s what you get with FarEye:
- AI-driven routing and dispatch for faster, more accurate deliveries
- Real-time visibility across fleets, orders, and exceptions
- Multi-carrier integrations and automated allocation
- Customizable workflows tailored to each client
- Scalable cloud infrastructure built for high-volume logistics
If you're ready to simplify your delivery operations and give customers a smoother experience, FarEye is a great place to start.
Book a quick demo and see how it fits your 3PL workflow.
FAQs
1. What is the best 3PL cloud software for small businesses?
For small logistics teams or growing 3PLs, the best 3PL cloud software is one that’s easy to set up, scalable, and offers strong automation without requiring a large IT footprint. Platforms like FarEye, DispatchTrack, and LogiNext are popular because they simplify routing, tracking, and fulfillment while keeping costs manageable.
2. How does 3PL software integrate with Shopify or Amazon?
Most cloud-based 3PL platforms offer plug-and-play integrations or APIs that sync orders, inventory, and tracking updates directly with Shopify, Amazon, and other marketplaces. Once connected, orders flow in automatically, labels are generated, and tracking updates are sent back in real time.
3. Is the software scalable for growing logistics companies?
Yes, scalability is one of the biggest benefits of 3PL cloud software. As your order volume, fleet size, or client base grows, the system automatically adapts without requiring new hardware or complex upgrades.
4. How secure is a cloud-based 3PL system?
Modern 3PL cloud platforms use advanced security measures like data encryption, access controls, secure APIs, and distributed cloud architecture. This keeps client data, shipment details, and operational workflows protected at all times.
5. What features does 3PL cloud software include?
Core features typically include real-time tracking, automated routing, warehouse management, order management, carrier integrations, analytics dashboards, and scalable cloud infrastructure. Most platforms also offer tools for customer communication and proof of delivery.
6. Does cloud-based 3PL software offer real-time inventory tracking?
Yes. Real-time inventory tracking is one of the standard features of modern 3PL platforms. As items move through receiving, picking, packing, and shipping, the system updates instantly so teams always know what’s in stock and where it’s located.
