Prioritize carrier connectivity, access to major road corridors and air gateways, scalable warehouse capacity, technology integration (WMS/API), SLA performance for pick-and-pack, labor availability, and value-added services (kitting, labeling, returns). Match the 3PL's service model to SKU velocity and your desired inventory placement to control cost-to-serve.

Transport connectivity directly affects both transit time and cost: frequent carrier services reduce transit variability and enable smaller safety stocks, while strong road and feeder-air links allow consolidation and zone-skipping strategies that lower per-unit shipping. Limited connectivity increases reliance on longer truckloads and higher buffer inventory.

Request omnichannel pick-and-pack, split-case and batch picking, lot and serial traceability, reverse logistics workflows, same-day or next-day cutoffs, and integrations with your order management or marketplace platforms. Clear KPIs for accuracy, lead time, and return processing reduce downstream costs and customer friction.

Optimize warehouse location versus demand centers, use shared inventory pools to lower storage per-SKU, implement cross-dock to cut handling, negotiate carrier contracts and consolidation, and adopt demand-driven replenishment to reduce safety stock and improve turns. Visibility and compatible WMS are essential to monitor these levers.