Evaluate road connectivity to major consumer and industrial markets, warehouse layout flexibility, real labor and occupancy costs, carrier network reach, and the 3PL's technology stack (WMS, integration APIs, reporting). Prioritize partners with proven processes for returns, value-added services, and scalable picking capacity.

Infrastructure determines throughput and accuracy; look for racked storage, pick zones, climate control where needed, and dock count. Technology (WMS, slotting, label automation) reduces cycle time and errors. Together they improve same-day/next-day SLA attainment and lower per-order costs.

Request evidence of lane-level routing, carrier contracts, and transit-time studies. Review documentation for customs support, bonded storage (if required), and routing options to major ports or cross-border gateways. Ask for references that match your primary outbound markets.