Evaluate WMS compatibility and EDI/APIs for order flow, SLA performance (pick/pack lead times, accuracy), available temperature-controlled capacity, inbound/outbound dock configuration, local carrier integrations, and scalability of footprint to handle seasonality and SKU growth.

A regional 3PL reduces last-mile miles to nearby provincial customers, often lowering per-shipment transit time and variable carrier costs. Savings depend on density of demand: higher regional volume yields the largest cost and service improvements through shorter carrier lanes and fewer transits to national hubs.

Confirm multi-channel order routing, returns processing, inventory visibility across channels, pick/pack workflows for mixed orders, staging for carrier handoffs, and options for multi-temperature storage. Also verify SLA penalties, insurance, and contingency plans for peak periods.

Request lane performance data and reference shipments, inspect the facility and dock configuration, verify active carrier contracts and regional trucking partners, review real-time tracking & reporting capabilities, and pilot a limited SKU program to measure throughput and transit reliability.