Prioritize real‑time WMS integration, SLA‑driven order processing, carrier connections for both ocean and air, bonded warehousing, and proven returns handling. Also evaluate physical capacity, racking and climate control, staffing models, and visibility/reporting to measure cost‑to‑serve and on‑time delivery.

Port and airport proximity enables shorter sea legs and sea‑air consolidation that reduce transit time compared with purely ocean routings. Regular cargo flights improve expedited options. These modal choices affect carrier rates, consolidation opportunities (LCL/FCL), and the balance between freight cost and delivery speed.

Look for a robust WMS with cycle counting and lot/serial traceability, barcode scanning, scalable shelving/racking, designated cross‑dock lanes, temperature‑controlled space if needed, and integration APIs for EDI or marketplace channels to reduce pick errors and compress order‑to‑ship times.

Confirm the 3PL’s customs brokerage capabilities, bonded warehouse accreditation, familiarity with local import documentation, tariff classification support, and processes for duties deferment. Verify compliance procedures, duty liability terms, and experience handling inbound consolidation and re‑export scenarios.