Focus on transparent line-item pricing: storage, pick-and-pack, receiving, and inbound/outbound freight. Compare cost-to-serve by SKU velocity, packaging dimensions, and regional carrier rates. Ask for sample TCO models and true landed-cost scenarios to see how lower local real estate costs translate to savings.

Prioritize warehouses with integrated WMS and OMS connectivity, efficient pick-and-pack processes for single-SKU eCommerce orders, B2B pallet handling, returns processing, and scalable labor. Verify same-day/next-day cutoffs, carrier integrations, and inventory visibility features.

Proximity to interstate corridors shortens road transit to Gulf Coast ports and neighboring states, enabling faster LTL and parcel service. Consider 3PLs with multiple carrier contracts to optimize route density and negotiate better lead times and rates.

Evaluate labor availability during peak seasons, facility contingency plans, insurance and liability terms, and scalability of space and systems. Request KPIs for accuracy, OTIF, and peak capacity, and confirm the 3PL’s disaster recovery and surge staffing procedures.