Prioritize carrier connectivity (road and rail), customs and cross-border handling experience, WMS integration and reporting, SLA performance for pick-pack cycles, and transparent cost-to-serve models. Verify value-added services (kitting, returns, QC), scalable capacity and proven multi-carrier parcel execution to support omnichannel growth.

Cross-border procedures affect transit predictability. Choose 3PLs with established customs workflows, bonded storage and trusted carrier lanes. Expect variability in dwell time; mitigate risk with carriers that provide real-time visibility, pre-clearance options and consolidated LTL rail-road routing to stabilize lead times.

Look for modern racking, climate control as needed, separation for returns processing, robust WMS with API integrations, real-time inventory visibility, barcode scanning and automated pick workflows. Confirm capacity for seasonal spikes, flexible slotting and documented KPIs for returns turnaround and order accuracy.