Prioritize carrier connectivity (port, road, rail), dock and staging capacity, cold-chain infrastructure if required, SLA transparency, and workforce flexibility. Also evaluate slotting systems, technology integration (WMS/APIs), and KPIs for cost-per-order and on-time fulfillment.

Proximity to the port shortens drayage and reduces handling steps, enabling faster consolidation for short-sea routes and lower lead times to Sicily, Sardinia, and North Africa. It also simplifies export documentation and multimodal transfers, lowering total transit cost.

Compare rent per pallet position, labor rates, energy and handling fees, inbound/outbound transport costs, and value-added service charges. Factor in inventory carrying cost from longer transit times versus lower operating costs and potential carrier consolidation savings.

Require real-time WMS/API integrations, batch and single-order pick accuracy, returns and reverse-logistics workflows, temperature-controlled storage if needed, and reliable SLA reporting. Verify reporting cadence, exception handling, and peak-season labor plans.