Assess carrier and terminal connectivity, bonded and customs handling, WMS/TMS integration, SLA performance for pick-and-pack and lead times, and facility capabilities for returns and value-added services. Verify peak season staffing plans and examples of similar SKU and volume profiles.

Key cost drivers include storage per pallet/cubic meter, handling and pick-pack fees, inbound/outbound container drayage, customs clearance charges, and peak season surcharges. Look for transparent activity-based pricing, minimum monthly volume terms, and clearly defined chargeback rules.

The combination of deepwater port, inland barges, rail terminals and highways reduces lead times to major metros in Benelux, Germany and northern France. This supports hub-and-spoke inventory strategies, allowing lower safety stock by positioning replenishment closer to consumption centers.

Require real-time inventory visibility, API or EDI order/sales channel integrations, automated ASN and customs messaging, returns management workflows, and reporting for KPIs. Confirm SLA-driven alerts and reconciliation processes for carrier events and exceptions.

Include order accuracy, on-time shipment rate, dock-to-stock time, order cycle time, inventory accuracy, and damage/claims targets. Define financial remedies for SLA breaches, clear liability for customs errors, and capacity commitments for peak seasons.