Focus on carrier transit maps, average door-to-door transit times, on-time shipment percentage, inventory turnover rates, and inbound cutoff times. Validate WMS connectivity, dock-to-stock cycle, and contingency plans for border delays to ensure service continuity.

Prioritize WMS functionality, racking density, temperature-controlled storage, cross-dock capacity, packing and kitting lines, and secure bonded space if you handle imports. Confirm scalability for peak seasons and the provider's ability to manage reverse logistics.

Bonded warehousing can defer duties and speed re-exports; ensure your 3PL supports customs declarations, transit permits, and harmonized tariff handling. Clear processes reduce delay risk at borders and improve inventory visibility for multi-country distribution.

Key drivers are space rates, labor and handling fees, inbound/outbound transport, and value-add charges. Optimize by consolidating shipments, improving slotting, standardizing packaging, and negotiating volume-based transport and handling tiers with the 3PL.