Focus on measurable KPIs: order lead time, pick-and-pack accuracy, and dock-to-delivery SLA. Evaluate carrier integration, zone-based transit maps, and warehousing cost drivers (rental rates, handling fees). Also review cold-chain certifications if handling perishables and the 3PL’s capacity to scale seasonally.

Proximity reduces first-mile transit to major demand centers, lowering fuel and driver costs and improving schedule reliability. Fewer urban congestion delays can cut average delivery windows. Consider peak-hour routing, container drayage times to/from Mombasa, and toll impacts when modeling total landed cost.

Confirm yard capacity, secure racking and mezzanine options, forklift and handling equipment, and IT systems for real-time inventory. Validate value-add services (kitting, bulk break, returns processing), insurance terms, and documented contingency plans for seasonal demand or transport disruptions.

Assess national parcel and LTL carrier partnerships, presence of final-mile networks, and regional cross-dock capabilities. Look for integrations with major courier APIs, multi-carrier routing, and options for same-day or next-day fulfillment in target catchment areas.

Negotiate sliding scale rent tied to throughput, commit to minimum volumes for lower handling rates, and bundle services (storage + fulfillment) for discounts. Review billing cadence, demurrage exposure, and incentives for inventory turns. Also seek transparency on ancillary fees to avoid hidden costs.