Require clear KPIs: order accuracy, pick‑to‑ship lead times, on‑time shipment %, dock‑to‑stock time, and inventory accuracy. Include SLA penalties for missed thresholds and regular reporting cadence. Validate throughput under peak loads and ask for proofs of scale such as WMS screenshots, busiest‑day metrics, and labor planning data.

Evaluate proximity to highways, intermodal yards, and ports; frequency of LTL and parcel pickups; and presence of carrier hubs. Ask 3PLs for lane maps, typical transit times to key destinations, and examples of consolidated inbound strategies that reduce per‑unit freight costs and handling steps.

Prioritize cross‑dock capabilities, bulk racking, efficient slotting, vendor receiving workflows, and value‑add services (kitting, bundling). Confirm the 3PL’s billing transparency, inventory reconciliation cadence, and ability to support EDI or API integrations for faster replenishment cycles.

Ask about returns triage processes, time to disposition, refurbishment capabilities, and reporting on return rates and dispositions. Confirm SLA for inspected returns, disposition cost schedules, and whether the 3PL supports resale, recycling, or liquidation channels as part of their reverse logistics offering.