Port access reduces dray times and demurrage risk, while rail and motorway links offer predictable inland transit. Choose 3PLs with direct terminal handling, established feeder services, and scheduled rail departures to shorten lead times and simplify cross‑dock scheduling.

• Cold‑chain integrity and temperature monitoring for perishables.
• Kitting, returns processing and eCommerce pick/pack throughput.
• Cross‑dock and consolidation capabilities for LTL and short‑sea flows.

Costs near key ports can be higher than inland satellite hubs but often lower than central urban centers. Reduce landed cost by using near‑port consolidation, optimizing shipment frequency, leveraging shared warehousing or multi‑client facilities, and aligning carrier contracts to regional lanes.

Confirm 3PL capabilities for customs brokerage, bonded storage, AEO accreditation, VAT handling and transit documentation. Ensure processes support import/export declarations, CE compliance where relevant, and electronic data interchange (EDI) with carriers and customs authorities.