Prioritize location relative to your customer base and carriers, WMS/TMS integration and reporting, inventory accuracy, labor skillsets and availability, SLA terms (OTD, accuracy, claims), flexibility for peak periods, and the 3PL's experience with your product type and channel mix.

Closer proximity reduces line-haul and last-mile time, lowers carrier zone exposure, and reduces fuel and dwell costs. It also minimizes variability from congestion, enabling tighter SLA commitments and more predictable carrier rate negotiations.

Demand proven pick-and-pack accuracy, real-time inventory visibility through WMS, integrated returns processing, kitting and light assembly, multi-carrier shipping, and SLA-backed performance metrics for on-time deliveries and claims handling.

Yes. Common levers include storage density and billing units, labor pooling/shared resources, volume tiers, inbound consolidation, minimum monthly charges, and seasonal flex terms. Negotiate transparent chargebacks and reporting to control cost-to-serve.

Ask for carrier access and negotiated rate schedules, claims SLA and historical claims ratios, insurance and liability limits, hazardous/materials handling certifications, customs/bonded facility capabilities if relevant, and documented audit and compliance procedures.