Evaluate container handling and berthing frequency at the local port, regularity of air cargo services, inland transport reliability, and proximity to consolidation hubs. Also assess bonded warehouse availability, customs facilitation, and local freight-forwarder relationships to minimize dwell time and reduce total landed cost.

Prioritize providers with WMS integration, real-time inventory visibility, barcode scanning, and automated pick-and-pack options. Confirm capabilities for kitting, returns processing, and temperature control where required to maintain SLAs, reduce errors, and scale during peak demand.

Key cost drivers include storage rates (per pallet/cubic meter), inbound/outbound handling, pick-and-pack fees, fuel and transport surcharges, customs clearance costs, and penalties for dwell time. Model total cost-to-serve for representative SKUs and scenarios to compare providers accurately.

Negotiate SLAs for order lead time, on-time dispatch, order accuracy, inventory accuracy, and returns turnaround. Track KPIs such as OTIF (on-time in full), picking accuracy, average order cycle time, and inventory shrinkage to monitor ongoing performance.

Confirm the 3PL’s experience with local customs procedures, import/export documentation, duty and tax regimes, and bonded storage options. Verify licenses, compliance processes for restricted goods, and the provider’s track record managing cross-border shipments to avoid clearance delays.