Prioritize 3PLs with direct access to the A1 Trakia motorway and nearby rail terminals; confirm standard transit times to Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas and key Balkan markets. Check carrier contracts for regular LTL lanes, dedicated TL capacity, and scheduled rail services to ensure predictable ETA and cost-effective routing.

Evaluate racking density, clear height, dock count, cross-dock capability, WMS and API integrations. Request data on order throughput, peak handling, and expansion options. Ensure the 3PL can scale labor, slots and value-add services (kitting, returns) in line with seasonal demand.

Negotiate transparent cost components: storage by pallet or cubic meter, pick-and-pack, minimums, inbound handling, and fuel or accessorial charges. Set KPIs for order accuracy, on-time dispatch, and dwell time to align cost-to-serve with margin targets and SLA-based fees.

Review local labor availability and shift flexibility, zoning and industrial permit constraints, utility reliability, and lease terms (term, expansion rights, CPI adjustments). Confirm customs clearance support if importing through nearby ports to avoid delays or unexpected compliance costs.

Request proof-of-performance: sample shipment dashboards, integration test runs with your order management system, and references for similar clients. Pilot a controlled SKU set to measure picking speed, label accuracy, returns processing and carrier handoffs before scaling operations.