Prioritize inventory accuracy, throughput metrics (orders/hour), SLA adherence, WMS/API integration, pick-and-pack error rates, returns handling, dock door capacity, and security/compliance. Verify references and live KPIs to ensure the provider meets target SLAs and seasonal scalability.

Locating fulfillment in Zacapa can shorten regional transit lanes due to highway positioning, improve carrier frequency by tapping regional carriers and freight forwarders, and lower landed costs through reduced last-mile miles and lower facility/labor expenses. Actual gains depend on origin/destination pairs.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory, robust receiving and put-away processes, adequate racking and dock capacity, temperature-controlled areas if needed, barcode/RFID scanning, EDI/API integrations, and reporting for inventory turns and order cycle times.

Confirm the 3PL’s experience with customs clearance, bonded or temporary storage options, accurate export/import documentation, local tax and regulatory compliance, and established relationships with freight forwarders to minimize dwell time and compliance risk on cross-border shipments.