Prioritize proven port/airport proximity, racked storage density, cross-dock capability, bonded and cold-chain options, and validated WMS/API integration. Verify scalable labor models, clear SLA terms (pick-to-ship, accuracy, cut-off times), and carrier partnerships that match your last-mile geography.

Close access to Pelabuhan Panjang and the Bakauheni ferry corridor reduces marine-handling and drayage. Strong road links to the Trans-Sumatra corridor and airport connectivity lower inland transit times, which can cut buffer inventory and reduce inventory-carrying costs for both B2B and eCommerce channels.

Evaluate multi-tenant versus dedicated space based on volume predictability, pick-and-pack pricing, contract flexibility, and SLA metrics (order lead time, accuracy, returns processing). Ensure the 3PL offers surge labor plans, seasonal capacity and clear penalty or remediation clauses for SLA breaches.

Confirm real-time inventory APIs, EDI or REST connectivity, and configurable reporting for cost-to-serve, inventory aging and order exceptions. Ask for sandbox access, data ownership terms, RTOs for integration, and sample dashboards that demonstrate cycle counts, KPIs and exception workflows.