Prioritize order accuracy, slotting flexibility, real‑time WMS visibility, scalable labor and storage, integrated carrier connections, and robust returns processing. Evaluate SLA performance data, peak‑season staffing plans, and systems integration (API/EDI) to ensure consistent customer experience.

A regional 3PL reduces landed cost through optimized cross‑docking, consolidation of LTL shipments, local carrier contracts, and proximity to key customer clusters. Ask for zone‑based rate modeling, sample route audits, and after‑action cost reports to quantify savings versus current network.

Assess highway/rail access, yard and dock capacity, clear height, racked vs. bulk density, power and telecom redundancy, labor pool availability, and expansion potential. Confirm load/unload windows, turn times, and parking for trailers to validate throughput assumptions.

Contract for real‑time WMS APIs, standardized EDI flows, daily inventory reconciliation, performance dashboards, and exception reporting. Include data ownership clauses, cadence for health checks, and penalties tied to agreed KPIs for accuracy, on‑time shipments, and inventory integrity.