Evaluate facility layout and slotting for SKU velocity, inbound/outbound dock capacity, WMS integrations (EDI/API), available value-added services (kitting, returns), and demonstrated carrier relationships that support scheduled and ad-hoc shipments.

Lower land and labor rates typically reduce fixed warehousing costs, but total landed cost depends on road transport frequency, empty miles, cross-dock usage, and inventory turnover. Model scenarios for monthly orders, peak volumes, and cross-border legs to compare TCO.

Look for paved highway access, proximity to major arterial routes to Ulaanbaatar and southern provinces, secure loading docks, bonded or customs facilitation if needed, and demonstrated handling of palletized B2B shipments with repeat pickup schedules.

Require scalable labor pools or temp staffing plans, surge storage options, real-time WMS visibility, automated order routing, and clear SLA definitions for returns processing, inspection, and disposition. Document ramp-up timelines for peak seasons.

Carrier density and access to regional trucking networks influence lead times and costs; verify intermodal connectivity to national rail or logistics hubs for long-haul moves, and confirm the 3PL's experience with cross-border documentation and bonded movements.