Prioritize proven WMS integration, pick‑pack and returns workflows, cold‑chain capacity if needed, SLA guarantees, and secure handling for high‑value or regulated items. Also assess inbound cross‑dock capability, customs clearance support, and visibility/reporting to manage remote inventory and customer expectations.

Transit times and carrier mix directly affect inventory holding, freight costs, and service windows. Expect longer baseline transit for remote routes; mitigate via regional inventory pooling, consolidations, feeder services, and carrier diversification to balance speed and cost while protecting service levels.

Yes. Many 3PLs offer shared warehousing, pay‑for‑use storage, and variable pick/pack pricing that remove fixed buildout costs. Validate minimums, onboarding fees, and SLA tiers; leverage phased volume commitments and periodic reviews to scale operations as demand grows.

Confirm local permits, bonded or customs brokerage capabilities if applicable, power and cold‑chain reliability, insurance and indemnity terms, and telecom/connectivity. Also review labor availability, equipment maintenance standards, and contingency plans for weather or port disruptions.