Prioritize corridor access (road/rail links to ports), warehouse type (bonded, ambient, cold), IT integration (WMS/EDI), SLA and KPI commitments (OTIF, pick accuracy), and cost-to-serve modeling to capture handling, storage, and inbound/outbound freight variances.

Corridor alignment determines modal mix and lead times: strong road and rail links allow palletized rail or trunking to ports (reducing unit costs), while shorter drayage to coastal gateways supports faster export windows. Choose carriers with routings that match your frequency and volume profiles.

Tete supports B2B and regional distribution well due to bulk handling and consolidation capacity; eCommerce and omnichannel are feasible where 3PLs offer pick-and-pack, small-parcel integration, and returns management. Match provider capabilities to SKU velocity and order profiles.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, OTIF, inventory accuracy, lead times, and contingency response. Include regular reporting cadence, penalty and incentive structures, audit rights, and change-management terms to control costs during seasonality and network shifts.