Prioritise proximity to demand (last‑mile distance), warehouse footprint and storage types, technology and API integrations (WMS, order management), SLA guarantees for pick/pack/ship, returns and reverse logistics capability, labour flexibility for peaks, and carrier network coverage for regional and national lanes.

Positioning stock in the Torbay area shortens average delivery distances across Devon and Cornwall, typically reducing transit times and lowering zone‑based parcel costs and driver mileage. However, trunking shipments to national hubs can add complexity, so balance local last‑mile savings against inbound consolidation and carrier routing.

Key links include the A380/A38 connections into the M5 corridor, nearby regional ports for coastal freight, and Exeter Airport for airfreight options. Effective 3PLs integrate national parcel carriers, regional freight carriers, and dedicated trunking services to provide flexible routing and competitive lead times.

Tourism and retail seasonality create predictable peaks; 3PLs must offer flexible labour pools, temporary storage or overflow options, short‑term racking, and rapid onboarding of SKU configurations. Robust forecasting, peak staffing plans, and scalable carrier capacity are essential to maintain service levels during high demand.