Evaluate facility footprint, SKU density and racking, pick/pack throughput, IT integration (WMS/OMS/API), SLA for order cutoffs aligned with air and sea schedules, returns handling, and scalability for seasonal peaks. Confirm carrier lanes and last-mile partners that serve your customer geography.

Close access to air services reduces lead times for urgent replenishment and high-value SKUs, while nearby ports like Lautoka enable ocean consolidation to lower unit costs. Shorter intermodal legs cut handling steps and reduce handling expenses, but balance air vs. ocean based on SKU velocity and landed cost priorities.

Require robust racked storage, adequate dock positions, bonded or customs-friendly areas, climate-controlled zones if needed, and a WMS with real-time inventory visibility. Confirm EDI/API connectivity, reporting cadence, and procedures for cycle counts and quality inspections.

Assess the provider’s customs brokerage experience, bonded warehousing options, familiarity with local import documentation and tariffs, and capabilities for handling duty deferral or special permits. Ensure the 3PL maintains compliance procedures and clear escalation paths for inspections or regulatory queries.