Focus on warehousing layout, pick/pack throughput, inbound/outbound dock capacity, IT integrations (WMS/OMS/APIs), and last-mile carrier options. Consider lead times to main customer clusters, cross-docking capability, cold-chain if needed, and total landed cost including duties and transit fees.

Assess the 3PL's experience with regional customs regimes, bonded storage, and preferred carrier lanes. Look for established customs brokers, documentation accuracy, and SLA provisions for clearance—these reduce delay risk and inventory holding costs.

Key capabilities include scalable racked storage, multi-temperature zones, automated sorting or pick-to-light for higher throughput, robust WMS with real-time inventory, and EDI/API connections to marketplaces and major carriers. These support predictable SLA scaling.

Model fixed vs variable storage rates, order pick and packing fees, handling for returns, cross-border duties and VAT handling, fuel surcharges, and average transit days to end customers. Include onboarding charges, safety stock needs due to lead time variability, and IT integration costs.