Prioritize SLA performance (OTD, accuracy), WMS/API integration with your OMS, pick/pack throughput, returns and reverse-logistics processes, inventory visibility, and scalability. Confirm carrier contracts, ability to handle peak volume, warehouse slotting flexibility, and clear chargeable activity definitions to align cost and service expectations.

Close proximity reduces drayage and handling steps, shortens transit windows for air and ocean freight, and enables faster handoffs to parcel and LTL carriers. That improves transit consistency, supports zone-skipping strategies to cut parcel spend, and lowers the risk of multi-leg delays that increase landed costs.

Key technologies include a robust WMS with real-time inventory, API or EDI connectivity to your OMS and carriers, barcode/RFID scanning, and reporting/dashboard capabilities. For scale, evaluate automation options for sortation and replenishment and verify the 3PL’s change-management and onboarding processes for integrations.

Assess pricing components: storage by pallet/cubic foot, receiving and putaway fees, per-order and per-sku pick-pack charges, packing materials, and outbound freight handling. Identify minimum monthly charges, volume tiers, SLA penalties, and rate escalation clauses. Model expected monthly costs across low, average, and peak scenarios to estimate total landed cost.

Many regional 3PLs support cross-border logistics; verify customs brokerage capabilities, export documentation expertise, bonded or FTZ access if needed, experience with local carriers and delivery partners, consolidated LCL/LTL services, and language/multi-currency support for claims and customer service.