Prioritize measurable metrics: average transit time to your primary markets, cold-chain capacity and certification, slotting and racking density, cost per pick and storage, SLA penalties, carrier connectivity, and WMS/API integration level. Also evaluate receiving throughput, security, and local labor availability to ensure peak-season scalability.

Seek dedicated refrigerated cubic meter capacity, temperature mapping, HACCP or equivalent certifications, blast-freezing capability and segregated packing lines. Verify SOPs for inbound handling, traceability systems, cold-chain monitoring, and export documentation support to reduce spoilage risk and customs delays.

Negotiate transparent pricing for storage (per pallet or CBM), receiving and outbound handling, pick fees, and minimum monthly volumes. Address fuel surcharges, detention/demurrage exposure, SLA credits, termination windows, and peak-season rates. Include volume ramps and performance KPIs to control total landed cost.