Prioritize proven WMS integration, pick‑pack accuracy, inventory visibility, temperature control (if applicable), bonded warehousing for customs efficiency, scalable labor and peak‑season capacity, and value‑added services (kitting, returns). Also verify carrier integrations and SLA metrics for on‑time fulfillment.

Closer proximity reduces drayage, handling time and inland transit, which lowers total landed cost and shortens replenishment cycles. Proximity also facilitates sea‑air consolidation, faster cross‑docking and reduced buffer inventory for SKU‑intensive assortments, improving inventory turns.

Negotiate transparent pricing (storage, pick/pack, inbound/outbound handling), minimum volume tiers, fuel surcharges and demurrage caps. Set KPIs: order accuracy, on‑time ship rate, dock‑to‑stock latency, inventory turns, and penalty/remediation clauses tied to SLA breaches.

Evaluate proximity to major road arteries, port terminals and air gateways, access to bonded facilities, density of local courier partners, distribution reach into target islands/markets, and congestion patterns to balance speed versus warehousing cost.

Request third‑party audit reports, certifications, insurance coverage, and references. Validate WMS screenshots or sandbox access, inquire about data integration methods, review physical security measures, and include trial periods or pilot volumes to test performance.