Prioritize carrier connectivity to Ningbo and Shanghai ports, bonded and customs-clearance capabilities, WMS/API integrations for order and inventory sync, scalability of racking and pick-pack capacity, and measured cost-to-serve. Also verify SLA response times, return-processing workflows, and regional last-mile partnerships.

Pricing usually combines per-cubic-meter or per-pallet storage fees, per-order pick-and-pack charges, and inbound/outbound handling. Value-added services (kitting, labeling, quality inspection) are billed separately. Negotiate minimums, seasonal rate tiers, and transparent cost elements tied to weight, dimensions, and processing complexity.

Assess proximity to major highways, port berths, and rail terminals to estimate inbound transit times. Factor in customs clearance windows for import shipments, typical dock-to-stock processing times, and same-day or next-day regional delivery coverage. Confirm carrier pickup schedules and cut-off times to avoid SLA gaps.

Require certified bonded warehousing, in-house customs brokerage or trusted partner arrangements, and experience with export documentation, VAT processing, and special trade zones. Ask for audit trails for bonded stock, procedures for duty deferral, and established workflows for cross-border reconciliations.

Confirm WMS supports real-time inventory APIs, EDI/webhook connections to your OMS, and detailed reporting for fill rates and SKUs. Request demonstrations of order routing logic, returns management, and exception workflows. Validate change management timelines and testing plans for go-live integration.