Prioritize proximity to major highways and carriers, WMS integration, slotting and pick efficiency, dock count and staging capacity, and SLA metrics for pick‑pack and cut‑off times. Also review labor availability, expansion options, and how the 3PL manages returns and reverse logistics to support omnichannel flows.

Locating in Elmira typically shortens transit to Northeast customers and can reduce LTL and parcel mileage compared with coastal fulfillment. Lower facility costs offset regional shipping rates, but measure parcel zone distribution, carrier density, and final‑mile contracts to quantify savings and service impact.

Require a modern WMS with API connectivity, inventory visibility, barcode and cycle count procedures, automated sortation or scalable pick modules, and robust reporting. Also verify disaster recovery plans, seasonal labor pools, and the 3PL’s ability to run promotions and multi‑channel order orchestration.

Define SLAs for order accuracy, on‑time shipment, inventory reconciliation cadence, and penalties for missed KPIs. Include clear pricing for storage tiers, receiving and returns, capacity surge clauses, minimum term and exit terms, insurance requirements, and provisions for audits and data access.