Evaluate multimodal connectivity (riverine and road), dock capacity and loading bay layout, proximity to primary shipping routes and consolidation hubs, carrier frequency for LTL/FTL, and seasonal access constraints. Also validate intermodal transfer capability and average lead time to your largest customer zones.

Land and labour rates are often lower than coastal centers, but transshipment or haulage fees can offset savings. Reduce landed cost through inventory pooling, cross‑docking to cut handling, batch shipments to lower per‑order transport, and negotiating carrier rates tied to volume.

Prioritize WMS/TMS integration, pick-and-pack throughput, returns processing, scalable labour and kitting/assembly services. Verify SLA metrics — order cycle time, pick accuracy, on‑time dispatch — plus carrier connectivity for last‑mile and visibility into inventory and shipments.

Review proximity to customs processing, typical clearance times, local import permits and compliance track record. Account for seasonal weather impacts on inland routes and require contingency plans. Validate the 3PL's experience with expedited clearance and documented compliance procedures.

Map customer density and transit times, segment SKUs by velocity and margin, and place fast movers nearer demand clusters while storing slow movers in lower‑cost sites. Use dynamic replenishment, safety stock rules and KPIs (OTD, fill rate, inventory days) to rebalance allocations.