Prioritize location and transit times to core customers, carrier connectivity (LTL/FTL and regional carriers), visible inventory and WMS integrations, warehouse equipment (racking, climate control), labor skill and scalability, and demonstrated processes for returns and peak-season surges.

A local 3PL can shorten last‑mile delivery windows, consolidate inventory to reduce split shipments, enable regional cross‑docking to lower handling costs, and provide integrated order management that routes orders by channel and SLA to optimize cost and service.

Expect scheduled road connections to coastal ports and major distribution nodes, partnerships with domestic carriers and LTL consolidators for hub transfers, and local parcel/last‑mile networks for urban and rural deliveries. Verify transit schedules, cutoffs and multi‑modal options during selection.

Compare landed cost per SKU, storage cost per pallet/cubic meter, pick/pack and outbound handling fees, monthly minimums and accessorials, plus KPIs such as order accuracy, on‑time fulfillment, transit lead time, inventory accuracy and average days to ship.