Focus on connectivity (distance to E80/E90 and rail), dock door count and yard capacity, racked vs bulk storage, WMS functionality and API availability, SLA metrics (OTD, pick accuracy, orders/hour), labor productivity, and scalable footprint to handle peaks. These metrics map directly to lead time, cost-to-serve, and ability to support omnichannel routing.

Positioning in Bilecik typically reduces inland transit times to central Anatolia and Bursa while providing competitive road access to Istanbul. Shorter lane miles to inland customers lower transport costs and improve consistency; proximity to major highways and rail options can also reduce LTL rates. Evaluate actual drive-times, fuel costs, and carrier frequency to quantify savings versus coastal siting.

Require scalable racked space, temporary overflow capacity, defined peak staffing plans, efficient pick/pack throughput, integrated returns processing, kitting and labeling services, and real-time inventory visibility. Ensure the 3PL demonstrates prior peak season performance and provides clear SLAs and contingency plans for volume spikes.

Run a TCO model including storage (per-pallet/month), handling (pick/pack), inbound/outbound transport, fuel surcharges, packaging, and value-added fees. Compare carrier contracts, lane frequency, and typical lead times. Request comparable order profiles and fulfillment samples, validate WMS integration capability, and require transparent reporting on deductions, claims, and SLA penalties.