Evaluate proximity to ports and major highways, yard capacity, dock-door count, warehouse column spacing and clear height, IT integration (WMS/OMS), and carrier density. Consider transit-time maps and SLA performance history to match service windows with customer expectations.

• Model landed cost including duties, domestic transport, pick-and-pack, and returns handling.
• Map service-level impact on transit times and delivery promises.
• Prioritize providers that balance predictable costs with SLA visibility and reporting.

Look for robust receiving and QA workflows, batch and lot tracking, scalable storage (racking vs. bulk), value‑added services (kitting/assembly), EDI/API connectivity, and flexible labor models to handle throughput spikes.

Confirm bonded warehouse options, experience with customs declarations, duty deferral or inward processing procedures, documentation accuracy, and the 3PL's relationships with local customs brokers to reduce border and port dwell time.