Evaluate port proximity and drayage windows, road and rail transit times to target markets, bonded and customs capabilities, real estate and labor cost profiles, warehouse throughput and scalability, and systems integration (WMS/OMS/APIs) to maintain inventory visibility and meet SLAs.

Shorter feeder connections and efficient road corridors reduce inland haul distances to Italian and Central European markets, lowering transport costs and transit variability. This improves delivery predictability and can reduce overall landed cost when combined with competitive local warehousing.

Confirm accuracy of inventory tracking, order batching and pick/pack productivity, returns processing, support for multiple carriers and delivery SLAs, temperature control if required, and technology compatibility for real-time order orchestration and reporting.

Key items include lease and handling rate structures, labor and energy costs, bonded warehouse or customs procedures, VAT and duty administration, insurance and liability terms, performance penalties, and contractual clarity on volume flexibility and ramp provisions.