Assess SLA performance (pick/pack lead times, cut‑off times), carrier connectivity for national and cross‑border lanes, and true landed cost analysis including duties and last‑mile fees. Verify technology APIs, warehouse slotting capabilities, and scalability to match SKU velocity and seasonal peaks.

Confirm racking and floor loading, clear internal dock and trailer capacity, temperature control if required, and capabilities for kitting, returns processing, labeling, and repacking. Ask for service definitions, chargeable activities, and throughput metrics tied to your SKUs.

Look for 3PLs with multi‑carrier contracts (parcel, LTL, and full truckload), EU customs handling expertise, consolidated pallet programs, and documented transit performance to primary markets. Evaluate weekly cut‑offs and drop‑ship integrations to reduce transit variability.

Use Obwalden as a node for regional consolidation or segmented inventory: position fast movers closer to demand, hold safety stock in cost‑efficient zones, and leverage cross‑dock windows to lower storage days. Model inventory carrying versus transportation savings to find the right balance.

Include SLAs for order lead time, on‑time delivery, inventory accuracy, return processing times, and chargeback rules. Define inventory visibility requirements, audit cadence, onboarding timelines, and termination terms tied to service performance to protect operations and cash flow.