Evaluate based on transit times to key customer clusters, slotting and pick/pack throughput, integration with your WMS/OMS, carrier connectivity, and shared vs dedicated storage economics. Prioritize providers with scalable labor, technology APIs, and clear SLAs for lead time and returns handling.

Look for direct highway access to regional industrial corridors, proximity to ferry/short-sea links, warehousing with cross-dock and staging areas, sufficient loading docks, and bonded or customs facilitation when applicable. These reduce dwell time and improve carrier scheduling.

Compare landed cost per SKU by zone, storage cost per pallet and per cubic meter, pick/pack labor rates, inbound receiving and putaway charges, inventory accuracy guarantees, and chargeback terms for exceptions. Model total cost-to-serve rather than unit line items alone.

Confirm customs brokerage support, bonded warehouse options if needed, local labor regulations affecting shift patterns and overtime, occupational safety compliance, and any municipal zoning restrictions for heavy vehicle access. Ensure the 3PL documents compliance capabilities in the contract.