Assess WMS compatibility and API/EDI connectivity, confirmed throughput metrics (orders/hour and picks/hour), SKU density and storage mix, and the provider's onboarding plan. Verify testing for peak volumes, reporting cadence, and escalation paths for incidents. Include a site visit and reference checks focused on comparable volumes and peak season performance.

Key cost drivers include rent and racking density, labor rates, inbound handling, cross-dock fees, and last-mile carriers. Optimize by increasing pallet density, negotiating blended carrier rates, using bonded warehousing to delay duties, implementing slotting to reduce picks, and aligning SLA tiers to customer service expectations.

Prioritize proximity to major highways and port/airport links, secure truck marshalling and dock capacity, bonded or customs-cleared warehousing, and established regional trucking lanes. Confirm carrier mix, scheduled departure windows, and the provider's experience with palletized LTL and full-truckload routing for B2B customers.

Bonded warehousing can defer duties and enable just-in-time replenishment, reducing working capital. It may simplify transshipment across GCC but can add processing steps—coordinate clear procedures with the 3PL to avoid delays. Factor customs clearance windows into safety stock and reorder points to maintain service levels.

Require pick accuracy, order cycle time, on-time shipment percentage, inventory accuracy and returns processing time SLAs. Include SLA credits, reporting frequency, root-cause analysis for failures, and defined escalation paths. Ensure SLAs reflect peak-season expectations and include capacity guarantees or lead-time commitments.