Evaluate on-time shipment rate, order accuracy, inventory accuracy, pick/pack throughput, and dock turn times. Confirm WMS/API integration, real-time reporting, SLA penalties, scalability for peak seasons, and reverse logistics processes. Operational audits and reference visits help verify metrics and process maturity.

Prioritize providers with direct access to major trunk highways, regular LTL/FTL carrier contracts, and experience with cross-border trucking lanes. Intermodal or feeder links to larger ports or rail yards, consolidated freight options, and strong last-mile partnerships improve speed and cost predictability for both B2B and consumer deliveries.

Local 3PLs can lower landed cost through reduced line-haul distance, lower real estate and labor rates, and faster replenishment. Cost levers include inventory placement, consolidation, shipment frequency, zone skipping, and negotiating carrier contracts. Model scenarios using SKU velocity and order profiles to quantify savings.

Confirm bonded storage, customs brokerage capabilities, duty/tax handling, and documented import/export procedures. Verify availability of value-added services such as kitting, rework, labelling, lot tracking, returns processing, and insurance coverage. Include audit rights, data access, and escalation paths in the contract.