Evaluate dock and door counts, pallet racking vs. bulk storage mix, cold-chain capacity, WMS compatibility (API and EDI), SLA terms for order accuracy and lead times, and documented KPIs for inventory accuracy and on-time shipments. Also confirm local customs support and cross-border handling processes.

Prioritize providers with demonstrated road connectivity to major border crossings and the regional airport, established LTL and parcel partnerships, and negotiated carrier rates. Confirm frequency of feeder services, cross-dock capabilities, and contingency routing for seasonal disruptions.

Compare per-pallet and per-sku storage rates, pick-and-pack unit costs, inbound receiving fees, minimum monthly charges, and value-added service fees. Assess billing transparency, inventory carrying costs, and any migration or onboarding expenses tied to WMS integration.

Require real-time WMS access or API endpoints for inventory, order management, and shipment status. Confirm bi-directional integration for order flow, EDI or API support for carriers, and reporting cadence for cycle counts, shrink, and SLA compliance. Request a technical onboarding plan and sandbox testing.