Prioritize location relative to carrier lanes, dock-door count and configuration, clear height and racking density, WMS/TMS integration, labor availability and shift flexibility, security and insurance, value-added services (kitting/returns), and transparent pricing (storage, handling, pick/pack, accessorials). Align these with SKU mix and target delivery windows.

Carrier connectivity determines route density, consolidation opportunities, and last-mile costs. A 3PL with strong regional LTL and parcel lanes, zone-skipping, and preferred carrier contracts can reduce per-shipment costs and transit days. Assess weekly lane volumes, pallet network access, and cross-dock capabilities to quantify landed-cost impact.

Key features include modern WMS with real-time inventory, optimized slotting, adequate clear heights and racking, automated sortation for high-SKU throughput, dedicated returns processing, staging and packing ergonomics, and measured pick/pack cycle times. These directly affect order accuracy and fulfillment lead time.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, on-time dispatch, and inventory reconciliation; defined chargeback policies; audit and site-inspection rights; data exchange formats and frequency; insurance and liability limits; ramp-up/ramp-down terms; and exit provisions to limit disruption if service fails to meet agreed KPIs.