Prioritize measurable operational criteria: dock and throughput capacity, SKU slotting and racking, cold‑chain availability if needed, WMS/ERP integration, SLA definitions for orders and returns, peak season scalability, and workforce skill levels. Validate carrier handoffs and last‑mile reach to ensure promised transit times are achievable within overall network design.

Carrier mix in the region drives modal choices (road vs. river) and frequency of departures. Limited scheduled long‑haul services can increase rates or lead times; conversely, reliable regional carriers and transfer points reduce handling steps and costs. Seasonal road conditions and carrier capacity shifts should be modeled into lead‑time and freight rate forecasts.

Confirm availability of: temperature‑controlled zones, bonded or customs facilitation if needed, pick‑and‑pack and kitting, returns processing, quality inspection and light assembly, and flexible slotting for SKU velocity changes. Also assess technology integration, reporting cadence and exception management processes.

Compare total cost of ownership (land, construction, labor, IT, maintenance) versus 3PL variable pricing (storage, fulfillment, transport). Factor in scale, seasonality, time‑to‑market, risk transfer, and operational expertise. Run a multi‑year cash‑flow model and sensitivity analysis on volume scenarios to determine the most cost‑effective approach.