Prioritize carrier access and drayage reliability, bonded and temperature-controlled storage, WMS with real-time API/EDI, measurable SLAs for inventory accuracy and order cycle time, and reverse-logistics capabilities. Also assess local labor skillsets and peak-season scalability to support both eCommerce and B2B demand.

Closer port-warehouse proximity reduces inland haul times and drayage spend, enabling faster vessel-to-order cycles and lower pre-carriage costs. Improved corridor links cut transit variability for cross-border lanes, though carrier frequency and customs clearance efficiency remain key variables impacting total lead time and landed cost.

Essential capabilities include accurate pick-and-pack operations, multi-client racking, temperature-controlled zones, returns processing, cross-dock services, and an integrated WMS with order management, reporting, and carrier-connectivity for last-mile optimization.

Confirm the 3PL provides licensed customs brokerage, bonded warehouse options, accurate HS code handling, and clear documentation workflows for permits, duties and VAT. SLA for customs clearance and procedures for inspections and temporary storage materially affect dwell time and total landed cost.

Assess WMS functionality (cycle counts, batch/LPN tracking), API/EDI connectivity for order flow and carrier booking, real-time inventory dashboards, configurable KPIs (OTD, inventory accuracy, order cycle), and the provider's ability to support data exports for your ERP and BI tools.