Require measurable KPIs: order-to-ship lead time, picking accuracy, inventory accuracy, on-time shipments, and dock-to-delivery SLA. Include penalties or service credits for missed SLAs and define carrier handoff windows. Verify WMS realtime inventory updates and reporting cadence to maintain visibility across replenishment and order cycles.

Port access in Dili reduces feeder and transshipment legs for routes to Indonesia and Australia, shortening transit time. Evaluate carrier frequency, consolidation options, and feeder schedules to optimize landed cost. Factor customs clearance speed and local drayage availability into lead-time models and safety stock calculations for cross-border distribution.

Expect a mix of fixed and variable charges: monthly space or rack fees, per-pallet receiving, putaway, pick-and-pack per line or per order, kitting charges, returns processing fees, and outbound freight. Also account for bonded storage fees, peak-season surcharges, and integration/onboarding costs. Request a modeled cost-to-serve for representative SKUs to compare providers.

Segment SKUs by velocity and margin, then place fast-moving SKUs closer to consumer clusters or last-mile carriers. Use Dili as a regional consolidation node for inbound imports and cross-dock rapid-fulfillment flows. Maintain safety stock for high-variability items and implement periodic network reviews based on sales seasonality and transit-time changes.

Steps include: confirm WMS/TMS API compatibility and test EDI or API feeds; agree inventory mapping and labeling standards; run receiving and picking pilot batches; define escalation and exception workflows; finalize SLAs and KPI dashboards; and schedule phased ramp-up to validate throughput and accuracy before full cutover.