Prioritize measurable KPIs and capabilities: transit time maps to your customer zones, carrier connectivity for your lanes, WMS/API integration with marketplaces and ERPs, SLA performance (picking accuracy, on-time ship), value-added services (kitting, returns), and transparent costing including storage, handling, and accessorials.

Proximity to regional highways and Gulf feeder services shortens line-haul and last-mile distances, lowering freight spend and transit days. A local 3PL with strong LTL, parcel, and regional TL relationships can optimize routing and mode selection to reduce costs and improve delivery predictability.

Expect an integrated WMS with carrier and marketplace APIs, barcode-directed picking, configurable slotting for fast movers, batch and single-unit pick-pack, returns processing, and cold chain options where needed. Scalability for seasonal peaks and visibility tools for inventory and order status are essential.

Assess coastal weather exposure and flood zones, provider continuity plans, backup power and elevated racking, insurance and recovery timelines, and the 3PL’s ability to pivot inventory to inland nodes. Contractual SLAs and contingency logistics routing are important for minimizing disruption.