Prioritize carrier connectivity and transit times, WMS and API integration, SLA guarantees for order accuracy and cutoffs, available equipment (reach trucks, temperature control), security/compliance, and scalability for peak seasons. Verify KPIs and reporting cadence to align expectations.

A local 3PL can reduce linehaul distance to northern endpoints, enable consolidation and cross‑dock flows to lower LTL spend, and leverage regional airport and truck networks for expedited replenishment—improving delivery windows while lowering overall freight per unit.

Confirm racking density, temperature‑controlled storage, dedicated pick/pack and returns areas, barcode/RFID scanning, staging for LTL/TL, secure yard access, and WMS functionality that supports order routing, batch picking and carrier label generation.

Timmins typically offers lower real estate and competitive labor costs, but a smaller labor pool can influence peak capacity. Structure agreements with flexible capacity clauses, seasonal staffing plans, and clearly defined KPIs to manage scalability and service continuity.