Prioritize network reach to key Pearl River Delta nodes, multimodal connectivity (road and river), IT integration (WMS and OMS APIs), SLA guarantees for pick/pack/ship, and capacity for value‑added services like kitting and returns management. Also evaluate real occupancy, labor stability, and carrier contracts.

Zhaoqing offers shorter inland transit to Guangzhou and Shenzhen ports versus inland-only hubs, enabling competitive ocean cutoffs and feeder options to Southeast Asia. Domestic road transit to nearby urban centers is efficient, often reducing multi-stop consolidation times for inland destinations.

Primary drivers are land and facility lease rates, labor and shift premiums, handling density (picks per hour), inventory days on hand, and local duties/ bonded status. Optimizing slotting, consolidation, and cross‑dock flows can materially reduce landed cost per SKU.

Verify WMS and TMS integration, real‑time inventory visibility (APIs), EDI or marketplace connectivity, SLA reporting, and onboarding timelines for SKU setup and barcode standards. Confirm testing windows, exception workflows, and support for promotions or seasonal volume spikes.