Assess cross‑border customs capabilities, bonded warehouse options, dock and trailer capacity, SKUs per pallet throughput, and carrier network density. Prioritize providers with transparent KPIs (OTIF, order cycle time, inventory accuracy) and demonstrable experience moving goods to Thailand, Phnom Penh and coastal export ports.

Border proximity shortens overland transit windows to Bangkok and northeastern Thailand, expands daily trucking lanes, and lowers fuel and line‑haul costs. Expect faster replenishment cycles for B2B accounts and more frequent consolidation departures for export, which reduces inventory carrying costs.

Require nominated 3PLs to offer bonded or duty‑suspended storage, licensed customs brokers, electronic declaration capabilities and standard operating procedures for inspections. Clear invoicing for duties and duties‑in‑bond movement reduces delays and simplifies cross‑border reconciliation.

Model total landed cost including rent, labor, outbound parcel rates and cross‑border fees. Validate peak seasonal labor sourcing, flexible labor agreements, IT integration for OMS/WMS, and expansion options. Ensure the 3PL can scale pick‑pack capacity without compromising SLA performance.