Prioritize WMS/ERP integration, real-time inventory visibility, dock and cross-dock capacity, returns management, and SLA performance for order accuracy and lead-time reduction. Also review scalable labor, kitting/packaging services, and any climate-controlled storage required by your SKU mix.

Close access to port and airport lowers drayage and handling steps, enabling faster gateway transfers and more consolidation opportunities. That typically reduces carrier costs per shipment and supports tighter lead-times for both domestic distribution and international exports.

Key metrics include rent per square meter, dock-door density, clear height, racking capacity, yard / trailer parking, power and utility sufficiency, and flexibility for short-term expansion during seasonal peaks. These drive throughput and cost-to-serve.

Assess frequency and reliability of road, rail and ferry services, carrier partnerships for LTL and FTL lanes, capacity commitments during peaks, and the 3PL's ability to provide lane-level reporting and exception management to maintain B2B SLAs.

Look for certified temperature-controlled zones, calibrated monitoring, bonded or customs-broker partnerships, traceability in WMS, EDI/API connectivity for cross-border documentation, and documented SOPs for regulatory compliance and audit readiness.