Prioritize warehouse footprint (racking, clear height), climate control and bonded status, WMS/API integration, SLA metrics (pick speed, order accuracy), carrier connectivity, and scalability of labor. Also verify customs handling capabilities and insurance programs to manage cross-border flows.

Riverine access and cross-border roads allow consolidated inbound shipments and shorter feeder routes, reducing last‑mile cost for neighboring markets. Modal mix and carrier density determine frequency and lead times—evaluate carrier schedules, transshipment points, and seasonal variability.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory, API/EDI connectivity for order flows, batch and lot control for traceability, return-management workflows, and dashboards for KPIs. Confirm ability to integrate with your ERP, marketplaces, and carrier platforms.

Confirm the 3PL's bonded warehousing status, customs brokerage partnerships, experience with documentation (manifests, certificates), duty handling options, and compliance with local import/export procedures to minimize clearance delays and demurrage risk.