Prioritize measurable KPIs and infrastructure: on-time pick-pack accuracy, dock/door capacity, racking and cold-chain availability, peak-season scalability, carrier connectivity, and integration with your OMS/WMS. Also verify SLA language, chargeback policies, and contingency plans for transport disruptions.

Proximity to arterial routes and regional consolidation points shortens last-mile legs and reduces multi-stop routing. Local 3PLs with established carrier networks can negotiate better LTL and parcel rates, provide consolidated departures to coastal gateways, and cut per-unit transport costs through density.

Expect services such as kitting/assembly, returns processing, lot and batch traceability, temperature-controlled storage, cross-docking, and cycle-count programs. Infrastructure should include secure racking, segregated QC areas, configured IT interfaces (API/EDI), and documented safety and compliance processes.

Assess total landed cost models, not just storage rates: include inbound handling, pick-pack labor, packaging, returns, and transportation. Review minimums, billing granularity, seasonality surcharges, and expansion clauses. Request historical throughput metrics and references for peak-period scaling.