Prioritize measurable criteria: transit times to core markets, carrier density and route frequency, bonded storage and customs processing, temperature-control if needed, and SLA-backed throughput metrics. Also assess WMS integration, reporting cadence, and scalability of labor and space to match seasonal peaks.

Port proximity reduces inland drayage and transshipment time, which lowers landed cost and shortens order-to-delivery cycles. Evaluate local carrier schedules, berth turnaround, and customs clearance speed; these operational factors drive variability in landed cost and inventory cycle times.

Model fixed rent per pallet or sqm, variable picking and handling fees, inbound receiving costs, long-term storage rates, cross-dock charges, labor overtime and seasonal premiums, and value-added service fees (kitting, labeling, returns). Include transportation-to-market estimates to compute total cost-to-serve.

Look for 3PLs with bonded warehouse options, documented customs brokerage experience, electronic manifesting, and clear import/export SOPs. These capabilities reduce clearance delays and enable deferred duties or direct distribution models for faster inventory flow.

Verify WMS functionality (inventory visibility, lot/expiry tracking), API or EDI connectivity for order and shipment flows, reporting and BI exports, and support for omnichannel processes like split-fulfillment and returns. Ask for integration timelines, sandbox access, and reference implementations.