Focus on on-time-in-full (OTIF), order cycle time, pick-and-pack accuracy, cost per order (including handling and transport), inventory turnover, and average lead time to key customer zones. Also evaluate WMS/API integration, SLA remedies, minimum volume commitments, and visibility into carrier performance to ensure alignment with growth plans.

Because Anuradhapura is inland with road and rail links, local warehousing typically lowers domestic last-mile costs and speeds delivery to northern/eastern markets. Export shipments still require inland transport to Colombo gateways, so model inland haul costs versus savings from lower facility rents and labor when calculating total landed cost.

Require a modern WMS with API/EDI, scalable racked storage, cross-docking and flow-through areas, temperature-controlled zones if needed, barcode/RFID tracking, returns processing, and flexible labor pools. Also confirm carrier integration for multi-carrier parcel and freight services to support both B2C and B2B flows.

Assess road/seasonal congestion, rail service frequency, lead times to major ports, availability of skilled labor, utilities reliability, and local regulatory requirements. Include contingency plans for surge capacity, backhaul costs, and clear KPIs in the contract to manage service continuity and cost volatility.