Evaluate transit times to major customer markets, carrier options and frequency, warehouse automation level, SLA definitions for pick/pack/ship, and WMS integrations for real-time inventory visibility. Also assess returns processing, seasonal scalability, and local customs handling to control total landed cost and service consistency.

Proximity to southern trade lanes reduces overland transit distance to neighboring markets, lowering transport spend and lead times. Local customs expertise and shorter clearance routes in the region can cut dwell time, improving predictability for B2B replenishment and reducing buffer inventory needs.

Require an enterprise-grade WMS with real-time inventory, barcode scanning, cycle-count processes, and integrations to your storefronts and TMS. Confirm available automation levels (conveyor, sortation, pick-to-voice), established SLAs for picking and shipping, and documented KPIs for OTIF, inventory accuracy, and returns turnaround.