Prioritize WMS capability and API/EDI connectivity, dock door and trailer capacity, racked vs. bulk cube, labor availability and temp staffing models, SLA flexibility for peak periods, and value‑added services (kitting, custom packaging, returns). Ensure the 3PL’s carrier network matches your outbound lanes and delivery time expectations.

Good multimodal access shortens lane distances and increases routing options, enabling lower LTL costs and better consolidation. Close highway links, regional rail terminals, and nearby air gateways reduce transit variability and allow negotiation of more competitive carrier rates and faster delivery windows for both consumer and bulk B2B shipments.

Optimize cube utilization and slotting, negotiate transparent pick/pack and storage rate tiers, use cross‑dock to reduce storage time, consolidate inbound carriers, implement SLA‑based incentives, and evaluate seasonal vs. permanent labor strategies. Monitor billing detail and inventory accuracy to avoid hidden charges and improve cost-to-serve.

Require demonstrable WMS functionality (real‑time inventory, lot/serial tracking), standard API/EDI integrations, and customizable reporting for KPIs like OTIF and inventory accuracy. Include SLA terms for cycle counts, exception handling, and returns processing, and pilot critical flows to validate performance before scaling volumes.