Evaluate order accuracy, on-time shipment rate, dock-to-stock throughput, inventory accuracy, and chargeback incidence. Also review average order cycle time, pick-pack labor productivity, and SLA penalties. Request real performance data and references covering peak and off-peak periods to validate consistency and scalability.

Kimberley often offers lower rent and labor costs, which reduces fixed operating expense per pallet. Trade-offs may include fewer direct carrier lanes or longer port transit in some corridors. Calculate total landed cost — including transport to key markets and last-mile fees — rather than comparing rent alone.

Prioritize:

Map actual carrier lanes and service frequencies, request zone-based transit time matrices, and test sample shipments across peak and non-peak windows. Verify intermodal handoffs (rail-to-truck) and local terminal capacities. Use historical transit data from shortlisted 3PLs to model delivery promises and safety stock requirements.