Prioritize carrier access (parcel/LTL), dock and yard capacity, WMS integration, labor flexibility, and SLA performance. Evaluate value-added services (kitting, labeling, returns) and clear KPIs for order accuracy, pick speed and on-time delivery to ensure the 3PL supports omnichannel demand profiles.

Ponca City typically offers lower facility and labor cost bases than large metros, which can reduce landed costs. Transit times depend on lane coverage; evaluate carrier density and LTL networks serving your top customer ZIPs to quantify savings versus transit time trade-offs.

Look for modern racking and dock design, scalable pick zones, robust WMS with API connectivity, barcode/scan accuracy, and returns processing. Confirm the 3PL can handle peak volumes, support batch or single-SKU picks, and integrate with your OMS and sales channels.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, lead times, and inventory reconciliation, plus fee schedules for storage, pick/pack, and value-added services. Define liability for shrinkage, change-management provisions for seasonal scaling, and exit terms to protect continuity and inventory recovery.