Evaluate WMS functionality and API connectivity, SLA adherence and reporting, proximity to key ports and highways, throughput capacity, order lead times, reverse logistics capabilities, and experience with omnichannel pick-and-pack. Also assess labor skill sets, contingency plans, and documented KPIs for accuracy, on-time shipment, and returns handling.

Proximity to Manila Port and NAIA reduces international transit and customs delay, while expressway access shortens intra-regional drayage and last-mile costs. Selecting a warehouse near principal carrier hubs enables better negotiated rates and multi-carrier routing to optimize landed cost and delivery windows.

Common pricing includes storage per pallet or per cubic meter, pick-and-pack fees, inbound/outbound handling, pallet storage minimums, and value-added service charges. Key cost drivers are inventory density, SKU velocity, seasonal volume swings, specialized handling (cold chain, hazardous), and integration complexity with your systems.

Look for bonded warehousing, proven customs brokerage partnerships, secure inventory segregation, temperature control where required, and documented import/export workflows. Robust audit trails, inventory reconciliation, and compliance with national customs regulations reduce delays and duties exposure.

Define scalable SLAs, set clear KPIs, and negotiate flexible rate tiers for seasonal peaks. Use inventory segmentation to move fast-turn SKUs closer to demand centers, implement cycle-counting and automation where ROI-positive, and require real-time reporting to align capacity with forecasted volume and cost targets.