Evaluate transit times to your top customer zones, carrier density and access to express courier hubs, on‑site handling capabilities (pick‑and‑pack, kitting, temperature control), inventory visibility via WMS/API, typical order accuracy and peak‑season surge capacity. Compare landed cost impacts from reduced transport distances and local handling fees.

Lease and labor rates in Varanasi are generally lower than major metros, reducing per‑unit storage and handling costs. Trade‑offs include slightly longer transit to some national distribution centers and varying availability of specialized labor. Assess total landed cost (rent + transport + time‑to‑customer) rather than rent alone.

Confirm proximity to National Highways and container yards, access to major rail terminals for intermodal moves, presence of truck parking and weighbridges, and relationships with regional freight carriers. Verify handling capacity for pallets, forklifts, dock doors and scheduled FTL/LTL dispatch windows.

Require WMS with real‑time inventory, API/EDI order integrations, order accuracy and pick‑rate SLAs, on‑time dispatch metrics, returns handling processes and weekly/monthly KPI reports. Ensure the 3PL can scale staffing for promotions and provide root‑cause analysis for exceptions.