Prioritize clear height and racking density (for capacity), WMS functionality (real-time inventory and integration), pick accuracy and cycle time SLAs, cross-dock capabilities for fast flow SKUs, and documented labor productivity metrics. Ask for historical KPIs and audit access before contracting.

Pricing commonly separates inventory storage (per-pallet or per-cubic-meter), pick-and-pack (per-order or per-line), receiving and put-away, and outbound freight pass-through. Request sample monthly cost modeling based on your SKU mix and order profile to compare effective per-order and per-unit costs.

Evaluate proximity to primary highways, local carrier density and pooled distribution lanes. Validate transit-time maps, carrier cutoffs, consolidation schedules and contingency routing. Confirm the 3PL’s contractual carrier relationships and performance guarantees for domestic lanes.

Check for value-added services (kitting, labelling, temperature control if needed), ISO/security standards and customs handling if exporting. Verify flexible labor pools, temporary racking options, and rapid onboarding timelines to scale for peaks without large capex.