Evaluate transit times to target markets, carrier lane density, warehouse infrastructure (dock doors, racking, cold chain), IT integration (WMS/EDI/API), pick-pack accuracy, returns handling and seasonal capacity planning. Prioritize partners with proven SLAs and local carrier relationships that match your service promise and cost targets.

Location impacts road distance and travel time due to terrain; proximity to main state highways reduces dwell and diversion. Closer sites improve carrier pickup windows and allow consolidation to reduce per-unit freight cost, while remote sites may increase FTL/LTL minimums and driver turn times, raising landed cost.

Prioritize secure racking, adequate ceiling heights, multiple loading docks, cross-dock capability, packaging/kitting, quality inspection, and temperature-controlled storage where needed. Also assess IT (real-time inventory visibility), labor skill levels, and the 3PL's experience handling B2B order profiles and ASN/E-COM integrations.

Negotiate clear SKU storage and handling rates, volumetric billing rules, minimums, and seasonal flex clauses. Define KPIs such as OTIF, pick accuracy, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, and claims resolution timelines. Include review cadence, penalty/bonus clauses tied to KPIs, and termination or transition support to protect operations.