Prioritize measurable KPIs and infrastructure: order-to-ship lead time, pick/pack accuracy, dock-to-door transit times, pallet throughput, and labor productivity. Verify availability of cold chain, bonded/FTZ status, WMS integration (API/EDI), slotting strategies, and carrier connectivity to ensure the 3PL can meet channel-specific SLAs.

Proximity to ports, feeder services, and air cargo reduces inland dray and transit time, lowering landed cost and variability. Strong road and courier density improves last-mile options. Assess carrier density, scheduled departures, and cross-dock capabilities to model freight cost versus service-level trade-offs.

Negotiate clear SLAs (OTIF, accuracy), volume-tier pricing, guaranteed throughput windows, labor surge terms, inventory reconciliation cadence, and penalties/credits for underperformance. Include capacity ramp clauses and technology integration milestones to ensure predictable scaling during peaks.

Confirm validated cold-chain rooms, temperature monitoring and alarm systems, HACCP/GMP or pharma certifications as applicable, documented SOPs for quarantine and recalls, and audit access. Also verify backup power, contingency transfer plans, and chain-of-custody procedures to minimize risk.