Prioritize proximity to major transport arteries (A1 and rail links), bonded warehousing availability, handling equipment (forklifts, racking), WMS and carrier integration, demonstrated customs clearance experience, and the 3PL’s ability to scale labor and storage during peak seasons.

Multimodal connectivity reduces lead times by offering route flexibility and consolidation options. Shorter road and rail transit lowers fuel and transit fees, while reliable carrier schedules reduce buffer inventory — together these cut landed cost and improve delivery predictability.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory visibility, API-based carrier and marketplace integrations, EDI or SFTP for order flow, configurable SLAs, and reporting tools for cost-to-serve analysis to ensure transparency and automation across fulfillment workflows.

Negotiate variable pricing tied to throughput (instead of fixed rates), consolidate SKUs for bulk handling, use cross-docking to minimize storage days, agree on seasonal labor clauses, and benchmark inbound consolidation and carrier discounts to lower unit costs.

Assess the 3PL’s experience with local customs procedures, availability of bonded or transit warehouses, documented clearance SLAs, trade compliance resources, and relationships with freight forwarders — these reduce dwell time and unexpected brokerage fees.