Focus on order-cycle time, inventory accuracy, receiving throughput, pick-and-pack productivity, and on-time dispatch. Verify SLA terms for order cutoffs, returns processing, and contingency plans for road disruptions. Also assess value-added services like kitting, labeling, and bonded storage.

Review direct trucking lanes to key coastal ports, airport freighter schedules, and local carrier networks. Ask providers for freight partner lists, transit-time matrices, and historical on-time delivery metrics for routes to Lagos, Cotonou, and Abidjan.

Confirm the 3PL's customs brokerage credentials, experience with ATA carnets and temporary imports, bonded warehouse licensing, and electronic documentation handling. Ensure clarity on duties, taxes, and timelines for goods release to avoid demurrage and clearance delays.

Prioritize racked storage, dedicated pick zones, scalable labor pools, secure fencing, backup power, and IT integrations (WMS + carrier APIs). Evaluate the provider’s capacity flexibility and peak staffing plans to manage promotional and seasonal surges.

Model all-in costs: inbound freight to port/airport, inland trucking to Niamey, warehousing fees, handling, customs, and last-mile delivery. Compare against regional consolidation alternatives — consider inventory holding costs, lead-time impacts, and service-level requirements to select the optimal network.