Evaluate network reach and transit timetables, WMS and API integration, inventory accuracy and cycle-count processes, SLA performance and reporting, staffing flexibility and labor skillsets, and reverse-logistics capability. Confirm experience with SKU velocity profiling and peak-season scaling.

Primary drivers: real estate/space rates, labor, inbound/outbound transportation, handling complexity, and inventory days on hand. To reduce costs, implement zoned inventory, consolidate shipments, negotiate hybrid pricing (storage + activity), use cross-dock strategies, and align reorder points with lead-time data.

Assess 3PLs for multi-carrier contracts, scheduled cutoffs, intermodal rail options, and last-mile partnerships. Validate real transit-time matrices to target markets, check for same-day/next-day coverage within Sichuan, and confirm carrier capacity during peak periods to avoid service degradation.

Require documented temperature zones with monitoring, batch and lot traceability, quality-control protocols, hazardous-goods handling certifications if needed, and documented returns workflows. Review audit records, certifications (where applicable), and traceability tools to ensure regulatory and customer requirements are met.