Prioritize carrier and port connectivity, bonded storage options, lead time guarantees, IT integration (WMS/ERP/API), and metrics for accuracy and on-time dispatch. Also assess scalable racking, peak-season labor plans, and local customs handling capabilities to reduce dwell time.

Proximity to the port and main arterial roads lowers drayage and last-mile transit costs, while efficient feeder network access reduces inland transit times. Choose facilities that minimize multimodal handoffs and offer consolidated shipping to control landed cost and transit variability.

Look for combined pick-and-pack, bulk breakbulk, kitting, returns processing, and SKU-level inventory visibility. Integrated shipping workflows and multi-carrier options are essential to support differing service levels for retail, marketplace, and wholesale orders.

Confirm the provider's customs brokerage capabilities, bonded warehouse status, insurance limits, and adherence to import/export documentation standards. Verify contingency plans for port congestion, seasonal weather impacts, and supplier variability to mitigate disruption risk.