Prioritize carrier access (regional and national), WMS and API integration, slotting and pick-path efficiency, cross-dock and staging capacity, and proven last-mile partnerships. Also evaluate labor availability, seasonal scalability, and cost structure (storage vs. throughput pricing).

Hastings' proximity to major highways and regional rail shortens door-to-door transit times to nearby metros and reduces reliance on long-haul drayage. That geography lets operators select a mix of LTL, regional parcel, and intermodal services to optimize cost and delivery speed.

Confirm dock count and configuration, clear height and racking density, cross-dock lanes, temperature control if needed, QC and returns workflows, and real-time WMS visibility. These features directly affect throughput, handling cost, and order accuracy.

Key components include storage density and billing model, pick-and-pack labor rates, inbound receiving and cross-dock fees, outbound carrier rates from local terminals, and chargebacks for returns or exceptions. Negotiate clear SLAs and volumetric pricing to control total cost.

Assess the 3PL's temporary labor pools, flexible slotting and racking options, overflow space agreements, and ability to scale WMS processes for additional SKUs. Look for documented surge performance and integration workflows for rapid SKU onboarding.