Evaluate location access (I‑4, local arterial routes), connectivity to ports and intermodal yards, WMS capabilities (real-time inventory, EDI/API), scalable labor pools, racking and cold-storage options, and carrier integrations for parcel and LTL. Prioritize measurable KPIs: order accuracy, on-time shipments, and cycle times.

Proximity to population centers reduces zone penetration and linehaul costs, shortening delivery windows. Access to regional LTL networks and drayage corridors to Port Tampa Bay supports varied carrier options. Strategic siting minimizes fuel and mileage-based fees while improving reliability for regional customers.

Look for flexible slotting and labor surge capacity, cold-chain storage and monitoring, cross-dock and value-added packaging, and a WMS with lot and batch tracking. Confirm regulatory compliance for food or pharma as required and documented temperature-control SOPs to protect perishable goods.

Break down cost drivers—storage per pallet/bin, inbound/outbound handling, pick/pack, kitting, and chargebacks—and require transparent billing. Negotiate SLAs for accuracy and transit times, define volume tiers and minimums, and include penalty/incentive clauses tied to KPIs to align cost to performance.

Expect integrated parcel and regional LTL services, partnerships with national carriers for long-haul lanes, and established drayage relationships for port and rail moves. Good 3PLs provide multi-carrier rate shopping, shipment tracking, and managed carrier relationships to optimize cost and delivery speed.