Prioritize transit-time performance to your customer base, WMS integration and visibility, order accuracy metrics, capacity for peaks, value-added service capabilities (kitting/returns), SLA clarity, and cost transparency. Assess real-world throughput, onboarding timelines, and how carrier partnerships will affect last-mile costs and delivery windows.

Transportation economics hinge on access to regional interstates, LTL and TL carrier density, and proximity to consolidation hubs. Sherman’s location can lower regional lane costs and transit times, improving fill rates and reducing expedited shipments; evaluate typical lane rates, fuel and accessorials, and average transit days for your top destinations.

Look for facilities with sufficient clear height, dock-door density, power capacity, racked and bulk storage options, and room for conveyors or sortation. Confirm dedicated areas for kitting and returns, security and inspections, and vendor integration with the 3PL’s WMS and reporting for seamless automated workflows.

Compare the CapEx and ongoing OpEx of leasing and operating a facility against 3PL variable pricing, onboarding costs, and service flexibility. Outsourcing reduces upfront investment and accelerates scale during seasonality, while leasing can lower unit costs at high utilization. Model break-even points, service risks, and technology integration requirements.