Prioritize carrier and port access, WMS and EDI compatibility, SLA guarantees for order accuracy and lead times, scalable pallet and pick‑pack capacity, and proven customs/bonded services. Validate performance with KPIs (OTD, accuracy, dwell time) and reference checks on peak‑season responsiveness.

Cost drivers include facility rent, local labour rates, utility reliability, and transport access. In many cases, warehousing in Bioko Sur offers lower land and labour expenses but variable utility and transport costs; factor in feeder services and customs fees when modelling landed cost and total cost‑to‑serve.

Shifting inventory regionally commonly reduces door‑to‑door lead times by 24–72 hours for coastal and nearby inland destinations, and can enable next‑day or two‑day delivery where local carrier networks are strong. Improvements depend on carrier density, last‑mile capacity, and stock placement strategy.

Request temperature logs and certification for cold storage, review returns processing flow and RMA SLAs, and test WMS/API integrations with order, inventory, and shipping systems. Include performance clauses for temperature excursions, return turn time, and data synchronization in the contract.