Prioritize facility layout and racking, dock and trailer capacity, proximity to primary roads, carrier connectivity, WMS/ERP integration, SLA definitions for pick/pack/ship, scalability for peak demand, bonded or temperature-controlled options, and transparent cost-to-serve metrics that include handling, storage, and inbound routing.

Transit times hinge on road quality and border processing. Use 3PLs with established carrier contracts and multi-modal options to reduce dwell time. Strategic node placement in Ennedi can lower last-mile mileage and enable timed consolidations to optimize freight tiers and reduce per-shipment costs.

Main drivers are land/rental rates, labor productivity, handling complexity, storage density, inbound/outbound freight, and returns processing. Calculate cost-to-serve by combining fixed facility charges with variable pick, pack, and shipping fees, plus inventory carrying and cross-dock or value-add service costs.

Confirm the 3PL's bonded warehousing licenses, customs brokerage partnerships, documentation processes (manifests, certificates), duty deferment options, and experience with inspections and transit permits. These capabilities reduce border delays and protect delivered lead-times for international orders.