Prioritize location relative to OR Tambo, major highways and customer clusters, WMS functionality and real‑time inventory visibility, pick/pack throughput, SLA performance metrics, carrier network integrations (parcel and LTL), returns processing, scalability of labor and storage, and availability of value‑added services such as kitting or cold chain.

Gauteng’s combination of air cargo at OR Tambo, inland port and intermodal rail plus major highways shortens door‑to‑door times and expands routing options. Modal choice and facility siting can cut inbound consolidation costs, reduce empty miles, and lower regional landed cost—though urban congestion and peak windows still affect final‑mile timing.

Look for validated temperature zones, continuous monitoring and alarm systems, reliable backup power, secure access control, accredited quality systems (HACCP, GDP where relevant), segregated handling areas, documented SOPs for recalls, and demonstrated traceability between inbound receipts and outbound shipments.

Evaluate storage rate structures, handling and pick/pack unit costs, dimensional weight and pallet rules, inbound receiving fees, cross‑dock and returns charges, minimum monthly volume commitments, fuel and surcharge policies, onboarding or IT integration fees, chargeback terms tied to SLAs, and audit rights for invoice reconciliation.