Prioritize carrier connectivity (road and lake), WMS/API integration, bonded and temperature-controlled options, SLA and lead-time guarantees, and flexibility for peak season scaling. Confirm local labor skills and equipment (forklifts, racking) and request KPIs for pick accuracy and on-time dispatch.

Lower occupancy and labor rates reduce storage cost per pallet, but consider additional transshipment fees for lake or cross-border moves. Factor in dwell time at ports, inland trucking rates, and potential customs handling when modelling total landed cost and customer lead-time impact.

Verify bonded facility status, licensed customs brokerage partners, certified handling for refrigerated goods if needed, secure yard and gate controls, and documented transshipment procedures. Confirm provider experience with regional customs documentation and cargo consolidation practices.

Look for a cloud-based WMS with real-time inventory, robust API connectivity for order and shipping flows, EDI or modern webhooks for carrier communication, and reporting dashboards. Ask about order routing logic, batch picking support, and returns processing workflows.

Evaluate the 3PL's available buffer capacity, temporary racking and labor ramp procedures, alternate carrier options, and contingency plans for port or road disruption. Request historical performance during peak periods and contractual flexibility for short-term space and labor increases.