Verify expressway access to Osaka/Kyoto, proximity to Kansai International Airport, and time-to-port metrics for sea freight. Check the 3PL’s roster of regional parcel carriers, cut-off times, and inbound consolidation options, and confirm intermodal frequency for rail or LTL services.

Nara typically offers lower land and rental rates than central Osaka while maintaining access to the same carrier networks. Labor pools are sufficient for light-assembly and fulfillment roles; evaluate commute patterns, shift flexibility, and local incentives that can reduce operating costs and support scaling.

Prioritize WMS/OMS integration, same-day or next-day pick-and-pack SLA performance, returns processing, kitting/assembly, and temperature-controlled handling if needed. Also assess peak-season scalability and the provider’s capacity to handle promotions and multi-channel routing.

Key KPIs: order accuracy, on-time shipment rate, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, and average order cycle. Include SLA clauses for cut-off adherence, chargeback triggers for errors, and regular performance reviews with agreed remediation plans.