Assess port/feeder frequency, airport capabilities and runway limits, road and river link reliability, available storage types (ambient and temperature control), material‑handling equipment, IT/API integration for inventory visibility, customs and transshipment experience, and existing carrier contracts to ensure alignment with your volume and SLA needs.

Account for storage and handling rates, inbound multimodal transport costs, transfer and transshipment fees, duties, inventory carrying cost, and last‑mile delivery premiums. Factor in carrier frequency constraints, seasonality risk, and potential premiums for expedited air services when comparing net landed cost.

Include measurable SLAs for order accuracy percentage, on‑time shipment rate, dock‑to‑stock and pick‑to‑ship cycle times, inventory accuracy, damage and claims rates, reporting cadence and data exchange standards, plus defined remedies or penalties for missed thresholds and scheduled operational reviews.