Ask how the 3PL records incoming stock, captures lot and expiry information, follows packout rules, connects your channels, and handles exceptions and returns. Request a walkthrough using your actual SKUs, not just a list of software logos.
Inventory can drift when product identifiers do not match, more than one system writes stock, reserved units are counted twice, or updates fail or arrive late. Choose the owner of each quantity, map the SKUs, and test orders and shipment updates across the connected systems.
Confirm your account and products are eligible, follow the current inbound instructions, reserve the correct stock, and name who owns preparation, shipment creation, transportation, and receipt reconciliation. Shipping stock to FBT is different from fulfilling a customer order.