Focus on measurable KPIs: order accuracy, pick/pack speed, inventory turnover, on‑time outbound shipments, and dock-to-delivery lead times. Also assess WMS integration, reporting cadence, labor flexibility, insurance and safety compliance, and carrier partnerships that affect transit reliability.

Reduction comes from optimized pick‑pack operations, bulk inbound consolidation, local nearshoring to shorten transit lanes, and negotiating regional carrier rates. Confirm the 3PL’s routing efficiencies, cross‑dock capabilities, and experience with customs and border procedures to avoid delays and fees.

Expect a modern WMS with API integrations, barcode scanning, real‑time inventory visibility, zone/piece picking workflows, and returns handling. Facilities should have secure racking, freezer/cooler options if needed, reliable power, and clear KPIs tied to SLAs.

Use a hybrid strategy: centralized stocking for low‑SKU volume, regional buffer stock for high‑velocity SKUs, and dedicated pick lines for B2B pallet orders. Incorporate scheduled carrier pickups, cross‑dock flows for rapid replenishment, and segmented SLAs per channel to balance cost and speed.