Prioritize port proximity, multimodal connectivity, and warehouse throughput (dock doors, cross-dock capacity). Insist on IT integrations (WMS/EDI/API), real-time inventory visibility, temperature control if needed, and experienced customs facilitation. Evaluate labor skills, peak-season scalability, returns processing, and transparent billing to control dwell time and landed cost.

Carrier access and multimodal links reduce transit times by enabling direct container handling, coastal feeder services, and efficient road distribution. Better frequency and consolidation lower per-unit ocean and drayage costs; integrated customs and carrier contracts reduce delays and demurrage exposure, improving predictability of landed cost to downstream markets.

Look for reliable temperature-controlled zones, redundant power, calibrated monitoring, zoned racking, and segregation for compliance. Important certifications and standards include ISO quality controls and, where applicable, HACCP/GMP or GDP-aligned processes. Also confirm sprinkler systems, loading-dock capacity, and handling equipment for your SKU profile.

Require clear SLAs for order accuracy, OTIF, inventory accuracy, and dock-to-dispatch cycle time; defined chargebacks, minimums, and billing cadence; audit and reporting access; ramp and exit terms; and a documented onboarding plan including test orders, EDI/API connectivity, and a dispute-resolution process to validate operational readiness.