Prioritize throughput and SLA metrics (order accuracy, picks per hour), dock and yard capacity, cross-docking and bonded handling, WMS functionality with API/EDI support, inventory visibility and reporting, and proven carrier relationships for regional lanes. Also validate scalability during peak seasons and contingency plans for road or border disruptions.

Transit times from Arua directly reduce delivery windows and buffer inventory needs for northern regions, lowering total freight and holding costs. Strong carrier access and consolidation services reduce per-package rates; however, model border clearance times, route reliability, and collection frequency into landed-cost calculations.

Expect configurable racking, dedicated and shared pick-and-pack lines, palletized B2B handling, returns processing, labeling/kitting, and—where needed—temperature-controlled storage. Confirm WMS features for multi-channel order routing, batch picking, and SLA monitoring to ensure consistent omnichannel performance.

Key cost drivers include storage (rent and racking), labor and handling rates, inbound/outbound transport fees, WMS and integration charges, and value-added service fees. Operators can optimize by consolidating SKUs, negotiating volume-based rate cards, slotting seasonally, and using shared services or cross-docking to reduce handling and inventory days.