Prioritize measurable KPIs and capabilities: order cycle time, pick-and-pack throughput, inventory accuracy, cold-chain handling if required, cross-docking capability, carrier API integrations and SLA penalties. Review warehouse layout, equipment availability and demonstrated peak-season scalability to ensure alignment with your SKU mix and service targets.

Location drives transit distance, carrier routing and driver cycle times. Warehousing in Gikongoro typically reduces regional overland miles for southern routes, lowers fuel and linehaul costs, and can improve last-mile delivery windows by situating inventory closer to end customers—especially when paired with local carrier networks and route optimization tools.

Require clear commitments on:

• IT integration (WMS and carrier APIs) for order orchestration
• Flexible labor and additional shift capability during peaks
• Scalable racked storage and temporary bulk staging areas

Compare fixed and variable charges: storage per pallet or per cubic meter, pick-and-pack rates by SKU velocity, inbound receiving and handling, cross-dock fees, kitting and returns processing, carrier pass-throughs, and any minimums. Include projected transit spend by lane and seasonal inventory carry to calculate true cost-to-serve.