A third-party logistics (3PL) provider stores your stock, packs each order and ships it to your customer. The right partner lets you grow without renting a warehouse. The wrong one costs you money and customers. Before you choose a 3PL in Canada, ask these ten questions.
1. Where are your warehouses?
Location decides delivery speed and shipping cost. A warehouse close to your biggest customer base, often Southern Ontario for national sellers, keeps both down.
2. How do you charge?
Most 3PLs charge for receiving, storage, pick and pack per order, and shipping. Ask for a sample invoice based on your real order volume, so there are no surprises.
3. Is there a minimum volume or contract length?
Some providers only take larger accounts. Make sure their minimums fit where your business is today, not only where you hope it will be.
4. Which store platforms do you connect to?
Orders should flow in from your online store automatically, and tracking should flow back. Confirm the integration with your platform before you sign.
5. What shipping rates can you offer?
A good 3PL passes on discounted carrier rates. Ask for rates to your most common destinations, including the U.S.
6. How fast do orders leave the building?
Ask about same-day cut-off times and how they handle peak seasons like Black Friday.
7. How do you handle returns?
Returns are part of e-commerce. Ask how returned items are checked, restocked and reported.
8. Can I see my inventory in real time?
You should be able to check stock levels, incoming shipments and order status at any time, without emailing anyone.
9. Can you ship cross-border?
If you sell to the U.S., ask how they handle customs paperwork and duties, which matter even more since the U.S. de minimis change in 2025.
10. Who do I call when something goes wrong?
You want a named contact, not a ticket queue. Ask who manages your account day to day.
Need help choosing?
Resource Mail Services connects online stores with trusted Canadian 3PL partners and helps international brands set up fulfillment in Canada. See our e-commerce fulfillment service or get a quote.