Key evaluation criteria include WMS/API compatibility, dock and staging capacity, average pick-and-pack rates, labor scalability, and transparent cost models. Consider operational KPIs and contractual SLAs, plus network reach and documented carrier lane performance. Useful checklist:

• Real-time inventory visibility via WMS/API
• Carrier lane density and transit profiles
• Scalable staffing and peak capacity

Kandava's location shortens first-mile transit to main arterial routes and reduces drayage to nearby ports, improving export and regional delivery windows. Higher route density to Riga and Lithuanian ports lowers per-shipment transport costs. Final carrier pricing will depend on lane frequency, parcel density, and negotiated LTL/parcel contracts.

Retailers should require clear SLAs and measurable KPIs. Typical priorities include:

• Order accuracy (%) and pick/pack error rates
• On-time shipment rate and carrier cut-off compliance
• Inventory accuracy (cycle count variance)
• Dock-to-stock and order lead times
• Defined chargeback and remediation terms for SLA failures

Essential capabilities include a modern WMS with API/EDI connectivity, barcode or RFID scanning, real-time inventory feeds, customizable reporting dashboards, automated ASN/PO workflows, and the ability to integrate with order management and ERP systems. Confirm supported integration protocols and sandbox/test environments before onboarding.