Prioritize WMS compatibility, API or EDI integrations with your storefront and carriers, pick/pack accuracy SLAs, returns processing, and scalable labor. Confirm real-time inventory visibility, cut-off times for same/next-day fulfillment, and reporting granularity to manage costs and customer service.

Focus on volumetric storage density, pallet versus bin pricing, minimum monthly charges, inbound receiving and cross-dock costs, FTL/LTL consolidation capability, and transparent freight billing. Also assess dock scheduling, trailer turn times, and peak-season labor availability.

Select 3PLs offering distributed inventory models, real-time stock synchronization, configurable order routing, flexible pick profiles (BOPIS, ship-from-store, DC), and integrated carrier options for final-mile SLAs. Verify SLA penalties and exception management processes.

Operators benefit from reduced transit times to nearby production centers and ports, improved access to regional carrier lanes, and lower deadhead due to local freight density. Expect options for intermodal transfers, regional LTL hubs, and shorter delivery windows into adjacent markets.