Prioritize carrier connectivity (sea and air feeder links and schedules), on‑site cold‑storage capacity, dock and staging throughput, inventory visibility (WMS/API integration), SLA performance on pick/pack/returns, and experience handling perishable and resort supply chains.

Transit times and feeder frequency directly influence inventory levels and buffer stock needs. Reliable multimodal routing (sea‑to‑island feeders, air bridges) reduces lead time variability but may add handling events. Evaluate consolidation options, carrier schedules, and cross‑docking to minimize dwell time and lower landed cost while preserving service levels.

Verify certified temperature zones, redundant refrigeration, calibrated monitoring and alarms, documented chain‑of‑custody, HACCP or equivalent food‑safety processes, and the 3PL's experience with export/import documentation and local health inspections to ensure compliance and minimize spoilage risk.

Model cost‑to‑serve including inbound consolidation, inter‑island feeder fees, inventory carrying costs, and last‑mile premiums. Assess minimum order quantities, slotting and handling fees, and the provider's ability to scale storage, labor, and transport capacity seasonally to match peak resort and tourism demand.