Prioritize location relative to main road corridors, transit times to target markets, bonded or customs-capable storage, WMS and integration capabilities, pick-and-pack SLA options, inventory accuracy metrics, scalability of space and labor, and transparent cost structures including minimums and billing cadence.

Compare landed cost models (storage, handling, pick/pack, inbound/outbound), request real carrier transit examples, verify contract rates for LTL/FTL, evaluate cross-dock options, and review reporting on carrier performance and on-time delivery to estimate true total delivery cost.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory, API or EDI integrations for order flow, barcode scanning and cycle-count routines, configurable pick/pack rules for multi-channel orders, and reporting dashboards for OTIF and inventory KPIs to support decision-making.

Confirm the facility's bonded status and customs handling capabilities, required licenses for import/export processing, duty deferment options, security and inspection protocols, documentary workflows for cross-border shipments, and the 3PL's experience with regulatory audits.