Prioritize real-time inventory visibility, dock-level receiving, pick-and-pack throughput, and last-mile carrier integrations. Review SLA definitions for order accuracy and same/next-day windows, peak season capacity, and penalties for missed SLAs to align expectations with your service promise.

Closer proximity to Port Harcourt and major arterial routes reduces line-haul, fuel, and dwell costs. Evaluate carrier frequency, backhaul opportunities, and typical truck turn times; these drive landed cost and order-to-delivery windows for both regional and national shipments.

Require a WMS with APIs or EDI for order, inventory, and ASN flows, warehouse slotting and batch control, and carrier rate management. Request reporting on inventory aging, picks per hour, and real-time stock positions to support omnichannel operations and forecasting.

Primary drivers are storage density (CBM per pallet), inbound/outbound handling, pick density, and transport. Control costs via improved carton optimization, consolidated inbound shipments, accurate forecasting to reduce buffer stock, and negotiating volume-tiered rates.

Assess available surge capacity, temporary labor pools, cross-dock throughput, and access to overflow facilities. Verify historical performance during peak windows, contingency plans for transport disruptions, and contractual flexibility for short-term space increases.