Assess carrier frequency, scheduled sailings and flights, and average transit windows to the mainland. Key checks include:

• Confirmed sailing/flight timetables and backup options for weather disruptions
• Lead times for inbound consolidation and outbound last‑mile delivery
• Carrier contracts that include liability, cargo tracking and defined SLA remedies

Expect higher per‑unit storage and handling costs due to smaller scale and limited labor pools, offset by savings on expedited long‑haul shipments and improved local delivery speed. Seasonal surcharges, consolidation timing, and minimum billing periods are common; model landed cost by SKU velocity, order density, and return rates to compare net benefits.

Prioritize pick‑and‑pack accuracy, temperature‑controlled storage for perishables, cross‑docking capacity for consolidation, robust WMS with real‑time inventory visibility, and returns handling. Integration with carrier APIs and EDI for customs documentation is essential to maintain predictable transit windows and SLA adherence.

Key risks include schedule variability due to weather, limited local labor, and constrained storage expansion. Mitigate by specifying minimum carrier frequencies, contingency plans for surge capacity, performance SLAs for order accuracy and timeliness, and clear liability and insurance terms. Include clauses for seasonal capacity scaling and predefined notice periods for rate changes.