Prioritize port and highway proximity, dock and staging capacity, slotting and throughput metrics, labor availability and costs, and carrier connectivity. Also evaluate WMS compatibility, SLA guarantees for pick‑pack times, value‑added services (kitting/returns), and real estate flexibility for seasonal peaks.

Pricing usually separates monthly storage by pallet or cubic metre, pick/pack and handling fees per unit or pick, inbound receiving charges, and surcharges for value‑added services. Request sample invoices, volume tiers, minimums, and transit‑time assumptions to model total landed cost accurately.

Require a modern WMS with real‑time inventory APIs, EDI or API order flows, carrier connectors for rating and tracking, returns management, and reporting dashboards. Confirm staging, lot/batch tracking, and barcode scanning standards to ensure inventory accuracy and rapid replenishment cycles.

Consider inventory placement near key ports, pool distribution to regional cross‑docks, consolidating LTL shipments, negotiating blanket carrier rates through the 3PL, and using predictive stocking for top SKUs. Evaluate multimodal routing and weekly vs. daily departures to balance speed and cost.