Prioritize proximity to highways and intermodal points, warehouse layout flexibility (pick-pack walls, cross-dock lanes), labor availability and retention, scalable capacity for peaks, and carrier diversity. Also evaluate WMS capabilities, SLA performance metrics, and the 3PL’s experience with your product profile (temperature control, returns, kitting).

Shorter line-haul lanes from Hoskins reduce zone-defined shipping costs and enable tighter delivery windows for regional customers. A well-connected carrier mix (LTL, parcel, regional dray) improves routing flexibility, reduces congestion risk, and supports reliable cutoffs for next-day or two-day delivery promises.

Require an enterprise-grade WMS with real-time inventory visibility, API or EDI integration for order flows, barcode scanning and cycle-counting, configurable SLA dashboards, and capability for automation or temp-controlled storage where needed. Confirm disaster recovery, cybersecurity, and onboarding timelines for systems integration.

Common components: receiving fees, storage per pallet/day, pick-and-pack per unit, outbound freight handling, and accessorials (prep, returns, insurance). Negotiate minimums, volume tiers, long-term rate caps, pass-through clauses for fuel or wage changes, clear SLA penalties, and transparent reporting to avoid hidden charges.