Prioritize WMS and ERP integration, inventory accuracy and reporting, SLA guarantees for pick/pack/ship, capacity and labor scalability for peak periods, carrier network breadth, and demonstrated experience with eCommerce, B2B, and returns processing. Request KPIs and sample performance data.

Gourma’s proximity to major highways and regional rail spurs shortens linehaul times and offers diverse carrier options, which reduces freight rates and improves service reliability. Evaluate terminal dwell times, frequency of carrier departures, and multimodal access to optimize transit windows and routing strategies.

Expect combinations of storage (per pallet/day), handling (per pick, per pallet), monthly minimums, inbound receiving fees, and value‑add charges. Compare using a cost-to-serve model that includes transportation, handling, storage, shrink, and service credits tied to SLA metrics like order accuracy and on-time dispatch.

Conduct operational audits, ask for peak-season staffing plans, review cold-chain certifications and temperature monitoring, request references for seasonal volume handling, and run pilot test orders. Verify contingency plans, backup carriers, and reporting cadence for returns and exception handling.