Prioritize: location relative to your customer base and carriers, WMS/API integration for order flow, dock capacity and throughput, value-added services (kitting/returns), and transparent cost structures including storage, handling, and billing cadence.

Assess the 3PL's regular carrier partnerships, LTL and full-truckload lane coverage, proximity to main routes, and contract flexibility. Request sample rate comparisons and transit-time data for your high-volume lanes to estimate freight savings.

Look for a robust WMS with real-time inventory, EDI/API connections to your ERP or storefront, barcode scanning and cycle-count processes, SLA-backed uptime, and reporting for KPIs like order accuracy, pick velocity, and dock turn time.

Smaller regional sites often offer lower rent and faster last-mile delivery but may have limited value-added services, fewer carrier choices, and reduced surge capacity. Larger facilities provide scale, diversified carrier networks, and automation but can carry higher fixed costs and longer transit to some end markets.