Prioritize carrier access, transit times to top customer markets, inventory visibility (WMS/API), and scalability of footprint. Also verify labor availability, peak‑season flex capacity, value‑added services (kitting, returns), and transparent SLA metrics tied to penalties or performance reporting.

Expect direct access to regional interstate corridors, LTL networks, and local last‑mile carriers. Evaluate 3PLs for intermodal connections, negotiated carrier rates, and multi‑carrier routing capabilities to balance cost and delivery windows.

Look for cloud WMS with API connectivity to your OMS and marketplaces, real‑time inventory visibility, barcode/scan accuracy, and returns management. Integration with shipping rate engines and carrier EDI improves automation and reduces manual touchpoints.

Compare total landed cost, not just per‑pallet rent: include inbound/outbound freight spend, labor productivity metrics (lines per hour), seasonal labor flexibility, and value‑added fees. Run scenario models for peak demand and SKU velocity to forecast true operating costs.

Include KPIs for order accuracy, on‑time shipments, inventory accuracy, dock appointment compliance, and chargeback thresholds. Define SLA measurement cadence, access to raw operational data, and remedies for repeated underperformance to maintain service continuity.