Prioritize carrier connectivity (ocean/air/road), customs clearance performance, WMS integration and SLAs, bonded/free‑zone capabilities, value‑added services (kitting, returns), and proven last‑mile networks. Confirm pick‑pack throughput, accuracy metrics, and scalability to match seasonal peaks.

Direct port calls and air services reduce transshipment and inland haul times, lowering inventory days and demurrage risk. Better connectivity enables consolidation strategies and smaller safety stocks, which reduce landed costs. Evaluate shipping schedules, local handling charges, and typical terminal dwell times when modelling total landed cost.

Require racked storage, climate control (where needed), bonded and free‑zone handling, robust WMS with API connectivity, pick‑and‑pack, kitting, returns processing, and quality control. Also confirm SLA reporting, inventory visibility, and procedures for order exceptions and customer returns.

Bonded warehouses and free zones allow deferred duty payments, temporary storage for re‑export, and simplified compliance workflows, improving cash flow and reducing total landed cost. Ensure your 3PL has customs brokerage expertise and documented processes for duty relief, transit declarations, and quick release to minimize delays.