Prioritize carrier neutrality, proximity to ports/major highways, WMS/API integration, SLA-backed pick-and-pack accuracy, and flexible storage (racked, bulk, cold). Also evaluate inbound/outbound cutoffs, evening/weekend processing, and local labor reliability to match omnichannel peak patterns.

Positioning inventory in Takamaka-area warehouses shortens dray to major ports and regional delivery nodes, lowering freight spend and transit variability. Evaluate 3PLs that offer zone-based inventory placement, consolidated pallet routing, and negotiated carrier rates to reduce per-shipment cost and improve delivery predictability.

Include SLA metrics (OTIF, pick accuracy, order cycle time); transparent rate cards (storage, handling, receiving); volume tiers and seasonal flex; onboarding timelines; system integration timelines; and termination/exit clauses. Consider minimums, chargeback procedures, and audit access to operational KPIs.