• Service-level commitments (pick/pack, cut-off, transit times), WMS/OMS integration, customs and bonded warehouse capabilities, network reach to your customer lanes, and clear pricing for storage, handling and returns.

Proximity to major ports and airports shortens origin/destination drayage and airlift time, while locations near the ring road reduce last‑mile delivery cost. Choosing a facility with intermodal access and customs clearance on site lowers dwell time and reduces landed cost.

Expect in‑house or partnered brokerage, tariff classification support, bonded and transit warehousing, duty deferral options and electronic filing (EDI/Single Window) to reduce customs delays and automate release processes.

Review historical peak performance data, contingency staffing plans, modular contract terms for capacity swings, temporary overflow arrangements, cross-dock options and real-time visibility through the provider's WMS to confirm scalability.