Evaluate transit times to primary customer zones, carrier mix (regional vs national), warehouse management system (WMS) capabilities, SLA performance, space scalability, cold chain availability if required, and the 3PL's ability to handle returns and peak season surges. Also quantify cost-to-serve for remote deliveries and potential cross-docking savings.

Locating fulfillment in The Pas can reduce last‑mile distance to northern communities and lower interprovincial transit legs through regional carrier hubs, which may lower variable shipping costs and transit time for those destinations. Compare carrier contracts and interline rates to understand net savings.

Look for dock configuration and trailer marshalling capacity, heavy‑load floor ratings, on-site forklifts and material handling equipment, staging areas for pallet builds, secure receiving and staging processes, and documented procedures for oversized or hazardous freight. Confirm available yard space and truck access windows.

Yes. Winter weather can affect transit reliability and loading/unloading operations; plan for service buffers, contingency carriers, and winterized facilities. Confirm the 3PL's snow‑removal, heating, and temperature control protocols as well as insurance and liability terms for weather‑related delays.

Track on‑time shipment percentage, order accuracy (pick/pack error rate), inventory accuracy, lead time variability, dock-to-stock cycle time, labor productivity (lines or picks per hour), chargebacks or exceptions, and total cost‑to‑serve per order. Regularly review these metrics to adjust SLAs and operational plans.