Prioritize carrier and port connectivity, customs brokerage experience, inventory visibility (WMS), pick & pack throughput, and returns handling. Evaluate SLA metrics for order accuracy, lead time, and detention. Also confirm ability to scale footprint and add value‑added services such as kitting or labeling.

Costs are often lower than major regional hubs due to competitive land and labor rates. Expect line items for storage (m2/month), handling (per pick/pack), inbound/outbound throughput, customs clearance fees, and any value‑added services. Ask for density and minimum volume assumptions when comparing quotes.

Shippers benefit from short coastal feeder times to nearby West African ports and scheduled connections to North Atlantic routes. Continental road transit times vary by border processes; plan for customs lead times and potential seasonal delays. Confirm carrier schedules and contingency routing with the 3PL.

A dependable 3PL should provide proven customs clearance procedures, export/import documentation support, tariff classification expertise, and digital tracking of regulatory filings. Verify experience with local inspection regimes, bonded storage options, and coordination with freight forwarders to minimize clearance delays.