Prioritize carrier and port connectivity, bonded warehouse availability, inventory accuracy and cycle-count performance, pick-and-pack labor rates and productivity, SLA guarantees for order-to-delivery, and IT integrations (WMS/ERP/API). Also validate seasonal labor scalability and demonstrated experience with your product category.

Expect line items for storage (per pallet or bin), handling (receiving, putaway, order picks), packing materials and kitting, outbound transportation, and value-added services (inspection, returns processing). Compare cost-per-pick, dwell-time tiers, minimums, and any setup or onboarding fees to determine total cost-to-serve.

Many providers offer bonded storage and customs-deferred processing that simplify VAT/refund handling and allow consolidation for export. Bonded options can shorten clearance for re-exports but may add processing steps for domestic release—coordinate documentation workflows and estimated release SLAs to avoid unexpected delays.

Require real-time WMS connectivity (API or EDI), batch and lot traceability, configurable pick strategies, return merchandise authorization workflows, and reporting on inventory accuracy and order cycle times. For complex SKUs, confirm capability for kitting, QC inspection, and temperature‑controlled storage if applicable.