Prioritize facility capacity and layout (racking, temperature control), WMS functionality and API/EDI integrations, pick/pack accuracy, SLA history, carrier connectivity, lead times to primary customer clusters, labor availability and value‑added service breadth (kitting, returns, labeling). Confirm reporting cadence and inventory visibility to manage SKU velocity.

Regional multimodal options—coastal shipping via Port Taranaki plus direct state highway access—create flexible routing that can lower road miles and enable competitive transit windows to larger North Island hubs. Evaluate each 3PL's carrier contracts and shipping lanes rather than assuming uniform transit times across providers.

Require a modern WMS with real‑time inventory visibility and APIs, barcode scanning and mobile picking, support for batch/lot traceability, temperature-control if needed, returns processing and EDI/carrier integrations. Also validate SLA metrics, exception workflows and reporting to support omnichannel order flows.

Focus on storage rate structures, pick/pack pricing, minimum monthly throughput, accessorial fees, inbound receiving charges, and surcharge definitions. Negotiate clear SLA credits, liability limits, notice periods for capacity changes, and scalability clauses to align cost with seasonal demand and reduce unexpected fees.