Prioritize measurable operational capabilities: on-site dock capacity, cross-dock throughput, bonded storage, temperature-controlled areas if needed, pick-and-pack productivity rates, and documented carrier schedules. Also validate WMS compatibility, reporting cadence, SLAs for order accuracy and transit time, and scalability to handle peak season volumes.

Carrier networks determine consolidation frequency and transit predictability. Limited sailings or irregular feeder schedules increase buffer inventory and landed cost. Negotiate regular carrier windows, consolidate freight to reduce per-unit ocean/LCL costs, and use local carriers for final-mile consolidation to optimize total door-to-door cost.

Expect standard services such as racked storage, pick-and-pack, returns processing, kitting, and basic cold-chain where required. Strong partners will provide inventory visibility via WMS, cycle-count programs, SLA-backed order accuracy, and options for bonded or customs-assisted processing to speed clearance.

Confirm native or API-level integration with your eCommerce and ERP systems, real-time inventory visibility, EDI/CSV order handling, barcode scanning support, and configurable reporting. Request sandbox access, uplift timelines for integrations, and examples of current carrier and storefront integrations.

Customs procedures and documentation impact clearance speed. Verify whether providers offer bonded storage, customs brokerage partnerships, and pre-clearance services. Also confirm duties handling, local import licenses if needed, and the 3PL's experience with compliance documentation to avoid demurrage and clearance delays.