Focus on geographic proximity to major customer clusters, WMS and API capabilities for real-time inventory, SLA commitments (order-to-ship times and accuracy), throughput capacity during peaks, and transparent pricing for storage, put/pick/pack and accessorials.

A Free State hub typically shortens overland transit to central domestic markets and provides multi-carrier options via regional highways and rail. Expect improved reliability for truckload and LTL lanes and potential savings on zone-based parcel costs versus peripheral coastal locations.

Compare base storage rates, per-order and per-pick charges, inbound/outbound handling fees, minimum monthly commitments, accessorials (e.g., special handling, returns), and volume or term discounts. Ask for modeled quotes using your SKU velocity to surface true landed costs.

Yes—many regional 3PLs offer scalable labor pools, seasonal staffing plans, temporary storage overflow options, and reverse logistics workflows. Verify their WMS flexibility, SLA tiers for peak periods, and experience managing returns and refurbishment at scale.