Prioritize transit-time impact (proximity to highways/ports), pick-and-pack throughput, dock and staging configurations, pallet racking density, and labor productivity metrics. Also evaluate technology integration (WMS/APIs), SLA terms for order accuracy and lead times, and true landed cost modeling to compare cost-to-serve across SKUs.

Assess the 3PL's established carrier contracts, frequency of linehaul departures, capability to consolidate LTL and FTL shipments, documentation processes for exports, and options for intermodal transfers. Request lane-specific transit tables and sample routing options to confirm consistency with your delivery windows.

Require scalable pick-and-pack space, dedicated returns processing areas, reverse-logistics workflows, temporary overflow staging, temperature-controlled zones if needed, and clear SLAs for returns handling. Confirm staffing ramp plans, seasonal labor agreements, and contingency capacity for surges.

Expect variations in billing granularity: storage by pallet vs. bin, per-pick or batched pick fees, minimum throughput charges, and accessorials. Negotiate clear definitions for free days, billing triggers, SLA penalties, and indexation clauses. Insist on transparent reporting to reconcile monthly invoicing to agreed metrics.