Prioritize inventory visibility (WMS/API access), SLA commitments (pick, pack, ship time), order accuracy and returns capability, carrier integrations for last‑mile delivery, and customs/port handling experience. Also confirm scalability of space and labor to handle seasonal peaks and SKU proliferation.

Closer port access typically reduces inland trucking costs, shortens transit times for inbound ocean freight, and enables feeder services for regional distribution. Multimodal routing can lower landed cost per unit, though seasonal road conditions and handling capacity at feeder ports should be evaluated.

Negotiate storage density (pallet positions per sqm), tiered labor rates for seasonal peaks, consolidated inbound handling fees, and performance-based pricing tied to OTIF, order cycle time, and inventory accuracy. Define billing units (per pallet, per pick) and minimum volume discounts to align cost with throughput.