Evaluate inventory accuracy, WMS integration (APIs/EDI), pick-and-pack throughput, cross-dock and consolidation services, returns processing, temperature-controlled handling, customs brokerage, SLAs for order lead time, and local transport contingency plans for weather or port disruptions.

Proximity to ports and scheduled feeder services reduces feeder legs and variability in transit times, lowering carrier charges and improving reliability. For island and regional routes, consolidation windows and dependable cutoffs often have greater impact on landed cost than short distance alone.

Clarify unit rates for storage, inbound receiving, pick-and-pack, returns, and value-added services; minimum monthly charges; billing cadence; volume tiers and seasonal flexibility; liability limits; service credits for SLA breaches; and explicit pass-throughs for fuel, port, or security surcharges.

Require demonstrations of the WMS (real-time inventory, lot/serial tracking), API/EDI capabilities, reporting dashboards, exception alerts, and audit logs. Request sample data feeds, uptime SLAs, and a migration/integration plan with your ecommerce and TMS platforms before contracting.