Prioritize port and road access, SLA performance for pick-and-pack, returns processing, technology integration (WMS/API), and value-added services like kitting and cold chain. Also assess labor flexibility and peak-season capacity to ensure consistent service levels.

Port access reduces feeder and short-sea leg distances, lowering ocean freight and transshipment time while expanding carrier choices. This can cut landed lead times, enable more frequent sailings and simplify multimodal handoffs to road or rail for B2B routes.

Verify customs brokerage experience, bonded storage availability, structured cold chain capacity with temperature monitoring, HACCP or GDP where applicable, and documented SOPs for cross-border documentation and inspections.

Key cost drivers include unit storage rates, pick/pack pricing, inbound/outbound handling, transportation to main lanes, inventory velocity, and seasonal surcharges. Evaluate minimums, value-added fees, and the provider's ability to scale space and labor during peaks for predictable landed cost modeling.