This study aims to identify the main drivers for engaging in sustainability practices in shipper-third-party logistics (3PL) provider relationships, and differentiate between both actors’ perspectives based on their roles within 3PL arrangements. A literature review is conducted to outline the main drivers for each actor among different academic themes. Then, data obtained from an explorative multiple-case study involving two large shippers and two large 3PL providers is illustrated and critically analysed. The drivers are sorted in a matrix that demonstrates nine categories to enable distinguishing both actors’ perceptions accurately. Detecting variations among the actors’ viewpoints on the drivers enables future research to focus on aligning both actors together to realise positive sustainable change.