Evaluate carrier access (port, rail, highway), WMS/technology integration, SLA and KPI guarantees (pick accuracy, OTIF), handling capabilities for pallets and eCommerce cartons, returns management, and customs clearance experience. Also review peak-season labor plans and contingency routing for inland corridors.

Closer proximity reduces drayage and inland trucking, shortens lead times, and expands carrier choices (ocean, rail, road). Benefits include lower dwell and demurrage risk, faster replenishment cycles for retailers, and improved cost-per-pallet on cross-border shipments to Malawi, Zimbabwe and beyond.

Expect a range of arrangements: month-to-month for small volumes to multi-year contracts for larger programs. Typical SLAs cover pick accuracy, order cut-off times, and turnaround for cross-dock. Minimums vary by provider; confirm storage and activity fee thresholds, billing cadence, and scalable labor plans for peak periods.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory feeds, API or EDI connectivity to storefronts/ERP, exception alerts, and dashboarded KPIs (inventory levels, order cycle times, OTIF). Also verify returns portal, batch tracing for lots/serials, and regular operational reporting cadence to support continuous improvement.