Prioritise WMS functionality, API integrations, slotting and pick-path efficiency, picking accuracy guarantees, and SLA metrics. Review facility layout (dock doors, mezzanine, secure storage), staffing models, and capacity to scale seasonally. Request performance data for OTIF, order cycle time, and inventory accuracy to compare providers objectively.

Carrier access determines transit reliability and cost. Evaluate a 3PL's linehaul partners, frequency of departures, road connectivity to national corridors, and last-mile carrier options. Check for partnerships with regional carriers, consolidated freight services, and capabilities for palletised versus parcel distribution to match your network needs.

Adopt a demand-segmented approach: keep high-velocity SKUs locally for rapid fulfillment, place regional replenishment stock for B2B, and maintain safety stock for peak windows. Use inventory analytics to set reorder points, enable distributed replenishment, and leverage the 3PL’s cross-dock or sortation services to reduce lead times and holding costs.

Negotiate clear SLAs for OTIF, order accuracy, returns handling, and lead times, plus chargeable event definitions and dispute resolution. Include audit rights, data access and reporting cadences, scalable rate tiers, minimum term flexibility, and liability/insurance terms to align incentives and limit unexpected costs.