Evaluate carrier connectivity (parcel, LTL, international FTL), throughput capacity during peak windows, value-added services (kitting, returns processing, labeling), IT integration (WMS, EDI, API), and SLAs for order lead time and accuracy. Also assess scalability and contingency plans for seasonal demand or supply disruptions.

Costs in this region are often lower for rent and labor, but consider total landed cost including longer final-mile distances, carrier pick patterns, and inventory velocity. Prioritize providers that offer transparent billing, density-optimized racking, and flexible contract terms to align costs with throughput.

Key capabilities include bonded or customs-friendly facilities, secure loading docks with seal verification, documented chain-of-custody processes, export documentation support, and staff experienced in cross-border paperwork to minimize clearance delays.

Ask for SLA metrics (order accuracy, on-time fulfillment), sample WMS integration timelines and API documentation, references for similar SKU complexity, peak season performance data, and details on returns processing and exception handling workflows.