Prioritize carrier access and transit times, WMS/ERP integration, SLA guarantees (OTIF, order cycle), value‑added service capability (kitting, returns), and facility certifications (temperature control, security). Also evaluate labor rates, peak capacity handling, and real data on pick/pack throughput and error rates.

Carrier partnerships determine consolidation frequency, LTL vs FTL economics, and last‑mile reliability. Proximity to major southern corridors and cross‑border routes to Mozambican ports can reduce transit days and demurrage risk. Use historical transit data and carrier cutoffs to model landed cost by lane.

Require real‑time WMS connectivity (API/EDI), standardized inventory and shipment feeds, daily KPI reporting (OTIF, cycle count variances, shrinkage), defined SLA credits for missed service levels, and change‑management clauses for scale‑up or seasonal surges.

Consider kitting, light assembly, temperature‑controlled storage, and returns processing as common value‑adds; local cost drivers include fuel and regional tolls, customs clearance procedures for cross‑border flows, labor availability, and seasonal road conditions that can affect pricing and lead times.