Prioritize throughput capacity, racking and pallet positions, dock and cross-dock capabilities, WMS integration and real-time inventory visibility, SLA definitions for pick/pack and shipping, carrier connectivity, and scalability clauses in the contract. Verify workforce skillsets and local labor availability to support seasonal peaks.

Miaoli City's position along Taiwan’s west corridor shortens overland transit to major population centers and ports, improving trunk times and carrier rotation. That proximity supports more predictable cutoffs for same-day or next‑day services and can reduce cost-per-shipment compared with more congested urban warehouses.

Compare fixed costs (slotting, minimums, rack fees), variable processing fees (pick/pack, labeling, returns), inbound handling, storage rates by SKU velocity, technology/integration fees, and accessorials (overages, expedited handling). Model cost-per-order under expected volume and seasonality to reveal true economics.

Confirm support for real-time WMS APIs, inventory synchronization across channels, EDI or API carrier booking, multi-carrier rate shopping, and returns management. Ensure the 3PL can generate shipping labels for your carriers and provide shipment tracking visibility compatible with your storefront and ERP.

Start with a network analysis of demand density and transit time targets, then model a multi-node strategy to reduce lead times and balance inventory. Negotiate flexible terms with your primary 3PL for overflow or rapid expansion, and evaluate distributed inventory policies to optimize safety stock and fulfillment cost across nodes.