Prioritize demonstrated warehouse throughput, temperature-controlled storage, real-time inventory systems, integrated carrier APIs, and scalable labor models. Also verify handling procedures for perishable exports, cycle-count accuracy, and SLA-backed lead times to ensure predictable performance.

Closer proximity to port and airport gateways reduces drayage and multimodal handoffs, lowering handling costs and lead times for exports and urgent domestic shipments. Factor in local road quality and seasonal congestion when modeling transit-time variability and carrier choice.

Major drivers include land and labor rates, energy and refrigeration costs for cold storage, inbound/outbound handling fees, value-added services (kitting, returns processing), and carrier access charges. Volume tiers and seasonal peak requirements also materially affect per-unit rates.

Confirm food-safety certifications, temperature-monitoring protocols, traceability systems, insurance and liability terms, on-time dispatch rates, pick accuracy, inventory shrinkage KPIs, and audit transparency. Require performance-based SLAs and escalation pathways for disruptive events.