Assess transit modality mix (river vs. air), lead times, and seasonal variability. Prioritize partners with proven customs handling, inventory-management systems, and contingency plans for weather or navigational disruptions. Also verify security, temperature control, and local carrier networks to match your SKU profile and service-level targets.

Compare landed costs by SKU, including modal surcharges and handling fees, against expected transit time improvements to target markets. Use volumetric forecasting, slot utilization, and fulfillment KPIs (order cycle time, OTIF, pick accuracy) to quantify ROI and identify whether consolidation or regional cross-docking reduces overall cost-to-serve.

Require AMS/WMS integration, real-time inventory visibility, customizable EDI/API connectivity, and demonstrated cold-chain if handling perishables. Confirm the 3PL’s carrier contracts for river barges and air operators, documentation processes for cross-border shipments, and capacity to scale during seasonality or demand spikes.

Ensure the 3PL has licensed customs brokers, understands cross-border tariff regimes, and maintains compliant documentation for imports/exports. Check procedures for temporary storage, transshipment, and sanitary permits for regulated goods, and verify experience with bilateral trade requirements affecting Brazil and Peru corridors.