Prioritise measurable capabilities: real-time WMS integrations, carrier and parcel API connectivity, temperature-controlled SKUs if required, scalable labour and seasonal capacity, cross-dock and consolidation ability, and transparent KPIs for inventory accuracy, order lead time and returns processing.

Facilities near Melbourne metro and freight gateways reduce last‑mile miles and delivery windows, lowering parcel costs. Strategic sites on major corridors cut linehaul to Sydney and Adelaide. Choose a 3PL site based on weighted demand zones to optimise transit time and total landed cost.

Key infrastructure includes Port of Melbourne access, proximity to Melbourne Airport for airfreight, rail terminals for intercity moves, and highway access for national linehaul. Equally important are established parcel carrier hubs, express networks and national freight providers for reliable pick-up windows and SLAs.

Insist on clear KPIs: order accuracy (%), on-time dispatch, inventory accuracy, dock-to-door lead times, returns turnaround, and incident resolution SLAs. Include reporting cadence, penalties or credits for missed SLAs, and escalation paths for peak season capacity issues.

Control costs through network design (multi-site vs single hub), multi‑client consolidation, seasonal labour models, temporary racking and cross‑dock flows. Leverage 3PLs with dynamic slotting, scalable labour contracts and integration with carriers to reduce dwell time and lower storage fees.