Prioritize port proximity, intermodal and feeder connectivity, warehouse condition (racking, climate control), customs/bonded capabilities, WMS/API integration, SLA metrics (pick-to-ship times, accuracy), and the 3PL's carrier neutrality. Also verify seasonal capacity, KPIs, and contingency plans for island operations.

Carrier access and transit depend on feeder schedules and consolidation points; closer proximity to transshipment hubs reduces dwell and handling costs. Evaluate typical feeder frequency, consolidation opportunities, and inland haul lanes—these drive landed cost, transit variability, and predictability of delivery windows.

Look for bonded storage, temperature-controlled zones (if required), kitting/assembly, quality inspection, reverse logistics, and robust WMS with API connectivity for inventory visibility. Efficient returns processing and disposition workflows are essential to control cost and turnaround times for eCommerce.

Confirm the 3PL’s customs brokerage capabilities, bonded warehouse licensing, duty deferral options, and documentation practices. Ensure they support HS-code validation, pre-lodgement, and compliance reporting to minimize clearance delays and penalties.

Assess pricing models (storage, handling, pick/pack, minimums), SLA definitions (lead times, accuracy), surge capacity for seasonality, onboarding timelines, and integration effort for WMS/ERP. Negotiate performance-based KPIs and review exit or transition clauses to reduce operational risk as volumes evolve.