Prioritize 3PLs that demonstrate: clear SLA definitions (picking, packing, transit), integrated WMS/OMS connectivity, scalable racking and storage, returns handling, and proven carrier partnerships. Also evaluate floor capacity, dock configuration, temperature control, and local labor reliability against forecasted throughput.

Road-centric distribution in Cochabamba typically reduces inland carriage to central customers but can increase costs for routes to eastern export corridors. Factor in fuel surcharges, regional carrier density, average daily dispatch volumes, and potential consolidation savings to model accurate cost-to-serve.

Confirm surge capacity, temporary staffing protocols, overflow storage options, cross-docking, kitting/assembly services, and customs facilitation for cross-border shipments. Verify lead times for scaling operations and any quarantine or inspection constraints impacting inbound flow.

Negotiate transparent billing (per-pallet, per-pick, handling), minimum throughput commitments, performance SLAs with penalties/bonuses, termination and inventory remediation clauses, and data-access rights for operational visibility and continuous improvement.