Focus on measurable SLAs (pick accuracy, order cycle time, on-time shipment), WMS/API connectivity, dock and yard capacity, inbound/outbound handling processes, labor flexibility during peaks, and the 3PL’s demonstrated carrier relationships and reporting capabilities.

Closer proximity reduces linehaul and last-mile transit times, increases carrier density and consolidation opportunities, lowers fuel and driver-hour costs, and improves predictability — all of which reduce total landed cost and improve delivery promise reliability.

Require a WMS with real-time inventory APIs or EDI, order routing and split-fulfillment logic, returns processing workflows, and KPI dashboards for inventory turns, order cycle times, and accuracy to enable automated decisioning across channels.

Compare line-item pricing (storage per pallet/cubic meter, pick/pack per unit), expected labor hours per order, seasonal uplift rates, SLA penalties, and ask for sample operational KPIs and a modeled cost-to-serve for typical SKU velocity and order profiles.