Prioritize transit access (road, rail, intermodal), storage and handling price per SKU, WMS/API integration, pick accuracy and OTIF metrics, value‑added service capabilities (kitting, returns), labor availability, and customs/bonded options. Align contractual SLAs and chargeback terms to expected order profiles and seasonality.

Carrier density and intermodal links in Julfa reduce gateway delays and provide multiple routing options. Good 3PLs coordinate road and rail schedules and local last‑mile partners to shorten door‑to‑door times. Evaluate a 3PL’s carrier network and historical on‑time performance for representative lanes.

Require cloud WMS with open APIs or EDI, real‑time inventory feeds, order status webhooks, and standardized reporting. Look for configurable dashboards, ASN support, and automated returns processing to maintain inventory accuracy and improve order-cycle visibility across sales channels.

Compare base storage, pick/pack, receiving, and value‑added fees alongside throughput discounts and minimums. Clarify billing cadence, SKU velocity tiers, seasonal capacity clauses, SLA penalties, insurance requirements, and termination provisions. Use scenario modeling to project cost per order under typical and peak demand.