Prioritize heavy-lift handling, reinforced storage and yard capacity, experienced forklift and crane operations, documented safety and hazardous handling procedures, and strong carrier contracts for road, rail and port transfers. Also evaluate spare-parts kitting, reverse logistics, and SLA adherence for emergency shipments.

Transit times determine buffer inventory and reorder points. Access to Antofagasta port and Calama airport reduces lead times for exports and urgent inbound parts, while reliable road and rail links cut domestic transit costs — influencing warehouse location, inventory allocation, and carrier selection strategies.

Look for WMS with real-time inventory, EDI/API integrations, batch and serial tracking, pick-and-pack optimization, and reporting dashboards. System compatibility with your ERP and carrier networks enables automated order routing, accurate stock levels, and measured SLA performance.

Negotiate transparent line-item pricing for storage, handling, and special services (e.g., heavy-lift, hazardous handling). Include minimum throughput commitments, review windows for rate adjustments, KPI-based penalties/incentives, and contingency clauses for seasonal demand or force majeure events.