Evaluate location relative to primary customers and carriers, inbound/outbound transit times, SKU storage needs, labor skillsets, IT/ERP integration and real‑time inventory visibility, service level agreements (SLAs), and scalability. Also assess accessorial fees, minimums, and the 3PL’s experience with returns and seasonal volume swings.

Road quality, regional feeder services, and access to air cargo affect transit time and predictability. Strong local carrier networks and consolidation points lower last‑mile expense and improve delivery windows; seasonal road conditions can increase variability, so plan buffer times and contingency routes to manage landed cost.

Look for pick‑and‑pack accuracy, batch and single‑unit picking, kitting, light assembly, returns processing, basic cold‑chain options if needed, and strong WMS/APIs for marketplace and carrier integrations to maintain inventory accuracy across channels.

Typical cost drivers include per‑pallet or per‑SKU storage charges, pick/pack and handling fees, inbound receiving costs, outbound shipping consolidation, labor surcharges, minimum monthly fees, and accessorials (long‑term storage, special packaging). Negotiate tiers for volume, seasonality, and bundled services to optimize total cost.