Prioritize location relative to major transport lanes, bonded/customs facilities, and last-mile density. Evaluate available storage types, labor skill sets, throughput capacity, equipment, safety/compliance, and the provider’s ability to scale during peaks. Confirm clear SLA metrics for accuracy, lead times, and claims handling.

Request demonstrations of the 3PL’s WMS/OMS, API capabilities, real-time inventory visibility, and order routing logic. Validate EDI/API documentation, sandbox testing availability, reporting cadence, and how the provider supports carrier rate shopping, multi-channel order flows, and return management.

Compare storage (per pallet/ft²), handling (receiving, putaway, pick-pack), order fees, kitting, returns processing, and value-add charges. Factor in minimums, billing cycles, ramp-up discounts, and pass-throughs such as customs, duties, and outbound freight to assess total cost-to-serve.

Evaluate the 3PL’s contracted carrier network, lane coverage, and transit time SLAs. Use KPIs like on-time delivery, transit variance, dock-to-door lead time, and claims frequency. Request historical lane performance data and visibility tools for proactive exception management.