Prioritize location relative to main highways and customer clusters, dock and yard capacity, storage types (bulk, shelf, cold), WMS and API integrations, SLA definitions (OTIF, order cycle), inventory accuracy, and scalability for peak demand. Evaluate carrier density and last‑mile partners to confirm delivery windows and cost profiles.

Proximity to major road corridors and rail feeders reduces linehaul time and cost; higher carrier density enables competitive rates and better zone skipping. Efficient multimodal links lower per‑unit transit spend and improve predictability—especially for consolidated pallets and time‑sensitive eCommerce deliveries.

Require a modern WMS with API/EDI, real‑time inventory visibility, barcode/RFID support, batch and wave picking, returns management, kitting, and pick/pack automation where volume justifies it. Also verify reporting cadence, exception handling, and onboarding processes for SKU and seasonal changes.

Shared warehousing reduces fixed costs but can limit customization and SLA tightness; dedicated space increases control at higher cost. Consider minimum order volumes, consolidation options, inventory placement strategies, and whether the 3PL supports zone skipping or direct carrier contracts to balance price and transit time.

Include KPIs for inventory accuracy, order accuracy, OTIF, pick/pack cycle time, receiving and putaway lead times, damage rates, and claims resolution. Specify reporting frequency, audit rights, chargeback mechanisms, escalation paths, and clear remediation or penalty clauses for recurring breaches.