Prioritize transit times to your primary customer zones, carrier density for last‑mile options, WMS/API integrations, inventory placement and safety stock strategy, SLA guarantees for OTIF, returns handling, and the 3PL’s ability to scale space and labor seasonally.

Look for adequate dock doors and staging, racked vs. bulk capacity, secure storage, cross‑dock capability, kitting and light assembly, AS/RS or mezzanine options if needed, quality control processes, and documented cycle count accuracy.

A central location reduces linehaul miles to Midwest and Southern destinations and increases access to LTL and parcel carrier pools, which can lower per‑shipment costs. Evaluate the 3PL’s negotiated carrier contracts, intermodal options, and consolidation practices to quantify savings.

Require clear SLAs (OTIF, order accuracy), inventory accuracy targets, chargeback and audit provisions, real‑time WMS/API or EDI integration, daily reporting, onboarding timelines, and escalation paths to maintain visibility and operational control.