Assess operational KPIs (order accuracy, dock-to-delivery time), technology stack (WMS, EDI/API), staffing flexibility for peaks, SLA penalties, insurance and liability terms, and capacity plans. Include a site audit and reference checks for similar clients to validate throughput and seasonal performance.

Key factors are proximity to arterial highways and cross-border checkpoints, availability of scheduled line-haul services, access to port drayage lanes, on-site cross-docking capability, and local carrier density. These determine route options, consolidation possibilities, and per-shipment cost.

Cross-border flows require harmonized documentation, validated tariff classifications, and customs brokerage expertise. Choose 3PLs experienced in pre-clearance, bonded storage, and consolidated shipments to minimize delays and reduce dwell time that can increase inventory carrying and freight costs.

Require real-time inventory sync via WMS/API, order routing logic for channel-specific SLAs, barcode-level traceability, automated returns processing workflows, and reporting for OTIF, inventory aging, and pick-cycle metrics. Ensure integration tests and failover procedures are documented.