Focus on measurable KPIs: dock-to-stock times, order cycle time, pick/pack accuracy, and on-time shipping rates. Evaluate physical infrastructure (racking, clear height, staging lanes), automation level, WMS integration options, and the provider's experience with returns and multichannel picking to match your service-level needs.

Carrier access determines routing flexibility and cost. Santa Venera's port proximity and road links reduce lead times to EU hubs and North African markets, lowering inland haul costs and transit variance. Verify carriers' frequency, transit lanes, and LTL vs FTL coverage to optimize lane consolidation and predictability.

Expect line-item pricing for storage (per pallet/CBM), handling (inbound/outbound), pick/pack, and value-added services. Also review accessorials (labelling, returns processing, rework), minimum throughput clauses, and billing cadence. Ask for cost-to-serve modelling for your SKU mix to compare true landed fulfillment cost.

Confirm bonded warehouse availability and customs brokerage capabilities for deferred duty and simplified clearance. Check local import/export compliance rules, required documentation workflows, and the 3PL's experience handling tariff classification, VAT processing, and cross-border documentation to reduce clearance delays and demurrage risk.