Key factors to evaluate include dock and racking configuration, IT/WMS integration capability, carrier pickup frequency, contingency plans for wet-season disruption, and scalable labor/space. Ensure SLAs for order cycle times, chargeback policies, and real-time reporting meet your channel needs.

Placing inventory in Adelaide River reduces road miles to Darwin and Top End customers, lowering last-mile costs and transit days versus southern consolidation hubs. Savings come from reduced linehaul, faster replenishment, and the ability to hold buffer stock closer to demand centers.

Prioritize providers with proven carriers routes to Darwin port and regional distribution networks, scheduled daily/weekly pickups, and established intermodal partners. Also confirm visibility tools, freight audit capabilities, and contingency routing options for seasonal disruptions.

Compare proposals on service levels, cost components, and implementation timeline. Useful checklist items include:

• WMS and API integration scope
• Inbound/outbound handling rates and minimums
• Storage tariffs and volumetric charging
• Labor model and peak staffing plan
• Disaster recovery and seasonality clauses