Prioritize multimodal carrier access, WMS integration capabilities, SLA performance for pick-and-pack, and labor scalability for peak seasons. Also evaluate cross-dock capacity, local delivery partners for last-mile, security and compliance for regulated items, and transparent cost structures tied to throughput and storage.

Geography drives carrier choice and transit windows: regional highways and rail transload nodes determine freight frequency and costs. Expect longer lanes to remote customers, so use consolidated LTL/PAL solutions, optimize shipment windows, and partner with carriers experienced in northern routes to reduce dwell times and reconsignment.

Key cost drivers include storage density, billable pick tiers, inbound receiving charges, and seasonal labor premiums. Negotiate clear SLAs, minimum throughput commitments, inventory reconciliation cadence, and escalation paths for outages. Consider volume discounts and fuel/peak surcharges to align pricing with demand variability.

Review the 3PL's contingency plans for winter road conditions, backup carrier networks, and emergency labor pools. Ensure disaster recovery for ICT/WMS, defined reroute procedures, and inventory redundancy options. Include KPIs for on-time shipments and an agreed rapid-response protocol for peak disruptions.