Prioritize SLA performance, inventory accuracy, pick-and-pack throughput, returns handling, and WMS/API compatibility. Assess bonded and temperature-controlled capacity if importing, plus carrier roster and feeder frequency to match your replenishment cadence and minimize transit variance.

Nearshore positioning reduces feeder transit time to Florida hubs and shortens last-mile legs to Caribbean destinations, lowering freight spend and improving delivery windows. Evaluate carrier schedules, consolidation frequency, and transshipment points to quantify landed-cost and lead-time improvements.

Confirm the 3PL's customs brokerage capabilities, bonded storage permits, documentation accuracy, and tariff-handling procedures. Ensure clear processes for duty deferral, temporary import regimes, and audit trails to avoid clearance delays and unexpected fees.

Look for a modern WMS with SKU-level inventory visibility, real-time API/EDI connections for orders and shipping, configurable reporting, and exception workflows. Integration with major carriers and marketplaces is critical to automate rate shopping, track shipments, and maintain inventory parity across channels.

Compare total cost-to-serve: rent and labor savings in Bimini versus higher transit and consolidation costs to end markets. Model scenarios for inventory days, stockout risk, peak-volume handling, and value-added service fees to determine where lower storage costs outweigh increased transportation or distribution complexity.