Evaluate site proximity to freight corridors, dock-door density, pallet positions, and slotting flexibility. Assess WMS compatibility, API integrations for order and inventory sync, SLA guarantees (pick/pack lead times), labor model and peak scalability, and security/compliance (bonded or customs needs).

Key factors include distance to major highways and carrier consolidation points, availability of regional parcel and LTL carriers, intermodal links for longer lanes, and existing carrier contracts at the 3PL. Also consider lane density for negotiated rates and regional last‑mile coverage.

Compare base storage and pick/pack rates, graduated pricing for seasonal volumes, and fees for returns, kitting, labeling, and inspection. Validate WMS functionality, reporting cadence, EDI/API support, and real‑time inventory views to ensure transparency and accurate cost‑to‑serve modeling.

Include clearly defined SLAs for order lead time, on‑time delivery, inventory accuracy, and claims resolution. Specify fee structures, dispute resolution, minimum volume commitments, notice periods for scaling, and regular performance reviews with penalty or rebate clauses tied to KPI thresholds.