Benchmark expected time-in-transit to your top customer ZIPs and ports, verify multimodal lane frequency (river, road, rail), confirm carrier partnerships and cut-off times, and request historical transit data. Prioritize 3PLs that provide lane-specific SLAs, real-time tracking and options for inventory placement to reduce total landed time and costs.

Require a robust WMS with channel routing rules, SKU-level inventory visibility, pick-pack-ship and batch processing, returns management and reverse logistics, kitting/assembly, temperature-controlled handling if needed, and capability to manage bonded/customs procedures. Integration APIs and EDI connectivity are key to omnichannel orchestration.

Negotiate transparent rate components (rental, pallet/day, inbound handling, pick/pack, outbound carton, value-added labor), minimums, volume tiers, and accessorial fees. Include clear SLA metrics, inventory reconciliation cadence, chargeback rules, and term flexibility for seasonal scale. Benchmark quotes per SKU velocity and footprint to compare true landed costs.

Compare road and river transit times to primary gateways, container frequency and feeder connectivity, port congestion statistics and terminal handling costs. Nantong can offer lower real estate and handling costs plus efficient river barge options; weigh those savings against direct vessel frequency and inland distribution needs when deciding placement.