Focus on these KPIs: order accuracy, pick-and-pack throughput (orders/hour), average inbound/outbound transit days, on-time delivery rate, and inventory accuracy. Also review slotting efficiency, shrinkage rates, and SLA penalties to quantify fulfillment risk and capacity scalability.

Transportation connectivity determines linehaul frequency and routing options. Good highway access reduces TL/LTL costs and transit days, enabling regional hub strategies that lower last‑mile spend. Evaluate carrier density, scheduled departures, and backhaul opportunities to optimize lane costs and improve service windows.

Prioritize flexible racking and mezzanine space, clear cross‑dock areas, temperature control if required, modular labor options, and IT integrations (WMS/WCS/API). Confirm peak staffing plans, temporary storage rates, and turnaround times for inbound receipts to handle seasonality without service degradation.

Confirm whether providers offer bonded warehousing, inland customs brokerage, and consolidated FCL/LCL routing. Inland 3PLs often rely on scheduled port pickups and partner brokers; assess additional drayage, customs clearance lead times, and documentation workflows to avoid delays and hidden fees.

Use tiered SLAs with clear KPIs, indexed pricing for volume bands, defined chargeback mechanisms, and minimum notice periods for peak labor. Include audit rights, inventory reconciliation cadence, and exit terms to manage risk while enabling cost predictability during growth or contraction.