Evaluate port and feeder access, warehouse layout and racking density, WMS and OMS integration, pick-pack accuracy and SLAs, labor skillsets, cold-chain capability if needed, security and insurance, and the provider's ability to scale slotting and seasonal capacity.

Good carrier connectivity and multimodal options reduce lead times by enabling direct feeder shipments and optimized consolidation. This lowers LTL/FCL rates, reduces double-handling, and improves on-time performance—translating to predictable transit times and lower distribution costs for retailers and exporters.

Negotiate transparent per-pallet and per-sku storage rates, pick-and-pack pricing by tiered order volumes, minimum throughput clauses, peak-season surcharges, defined SLA penalties, fuel and accessorial caps, and clear exit terms to avoid hidden cost exposure.

Conduct site audits for racking, security, and power; validate WMS integration and real-time reporting; review inventory accuracy, order cycle time, on-time shipment percentage, return handling, customer references, and run a pilot or trial period to confirm performance against contractual SLAs.