Prioritize port and rail access, WMS and API integration, bonded storage and customs brokerage, SLA performance metrics (pick accuracy, lead time), and yard/terminal handling capacity. Also assess scalability for peak season, local labor capability, security, and value‑add services like kitting and returns processing to align with channel mix.

Closer proximity to Aktau and rail corridors reduces road haul distances and modal transfers, lowering transit time variability and inland transport spend. That translates to smaller safety stock, lower inventory carrying cost, and potential consolidation savings when routing FCL/LCL flows to Caucasus and Central Asian markets.

Look for configurable pick‑pack, returns and reverse logistics, lot and batch tracking, temperature zoning if needed, bonded and duty‑suspended storage, licensed customs brokerage, and robust WMS with order orchestration and carrier integrations to support omnichannel SLAs and traceability.

Key cost drivers include land/lease rates, labor availability, utility and handling rates, and modal mix (rail vs road vs sea). Consider incentives from special economic zones, customs regime efficiencies, proximity to major carriers and cross‑dock points, and trade lane volumes—each impacts unit handling cost and carrier access differently.