Prioritize SLA metrics and cost drivers: pick/pack accuracy, order cycle time, on‑time fulfillment, dock throughput (doors/hour), inventory accuracy, return processing time, labor productivity (OTIF per FTE), and system uptime for WMS/API. Compare historical KPIs and request site‑level performance data to validate capacity and reliability.

Carrier access in Hermanus influences route options and consolidation economics: proximity to Cape Town port and N2 reduces inbound transit and gateway costs; regular LTL and national linehaul services lower per‑unit transport costs; fewer transits and cross‑docking opportunities reduce dwell time and inventory holding costs.

Negotiate clarity on fixed vs variable fees, minimums, slotting and storage schemes, pick/pack and kitting fees, inbound handling, overtime rules, fuel and carrier passthroughs, SLA credits, data and integration charges, and scalable pricing tiers tied to volume bands to avoid margin erosion as volumes change.

Assess WMS functionality, real‑time inventory visibility, API/EDI connectivity, reporting and BI dashboards, returns management modules, and security/compliance. Request technical documentation, integration timelines, sandbox access, and SLAs for data exchange to validate end‑to‑end order flow and reconciliation processes.