Prioritize dock capacity and yard space, bonded or FTZ options, pick-and-pack technology compatibility, peak handling scalability, and proven carrier integrations. Also validate SLA metrics (order accuracy, lead times), inventory visibility tools, and contingency plans for weather or port disruptions.

Customs clearance location and bonded-storage availability directly impact dwell time and cash flow. Using bonded warehousing can defer duties until goods are sold, consolidate shipments to reduce per-unit duty, and shorten local distribution cycles, lowering overall landed cost and improving working capital.

Key considerations include feeder and mainline ocean service frequency, regional trucking coverage, availability of overnight parcel services, and intermodal options for inland routing. Assess carrier service maps, typical transit times, and contractual capacity guarantees for peak season reliability.

Demand clear SLAs for order accuracy, same-day/next-day processing, and cut-off times. Require WMS integrations (API or EDI), real-time inventory visibility, returns handling workflows, and KPIs such as OTIF, pick accuracy, and average order cycle time to monitor performance.