The purpose of this research is to provide an understanding of the contemporary 3PL market in China. This study links trust, IT and 3 PL usage and customer relationships. Also, the importance of social connections in business operations is highlighted. The manuscript shows the influence of trust, IT and 3PL usage on customer service performance, and its consequence for satisfaction and loyalty. 3PL usage appears to have a positive influence on service performance. Furthermore, service performance improves the customer relationship outcomes, in terms of satisfaction and loyalty via trust. Trust seems to have a mediating role.