Compare total cost of ownership (storage, handling, outbound carton rates, returns processing), SLA guarantees (cutoff times, OTIF), WMS features (real-time inventory, APIs), and onboarding timelines. Request sample invoices and a modeled monthly cost based on your SKU profile and order mix to validate commercial assumptions.

Pardubice provides direct road access to the D11 corridor and regional rail connections enabling efficient routes to Poland and Germany. Evaluate 3PLs for multi-carrier partnerships, daily truck departures, and integrated freight booking to minimize transit times and reduce freight spend.

Require KPIs such as order accuracy, pick-face replenishment time, dock-to-ship lead time, and inventory accuracy. Insist on WMS with carrier API integrations, EDI or RESTful connectivity, real-time inventory visibility, and reporting aligned to your order SLA targets.

Prioritize facilities with flexible lease terms, scalable racking, temporary overflow yard or cross-dock capacity, and services like kitting, light assembly, labeling, and returns processing. Confirm the 3PL’s ability to scale labor and equipment seasonally and provide rapid onboarding for new SKUs.