Assess carrier and barge schedules, SLA guarantees for seasonal peaks, inventory visibility (real-time WMS/API), and contingency plans for weather-related disruption. Check order accuracy, on-time-in-full (OTIF) metrics, and references for peak-season volume handling to validate reliability.

Prioritize port/harbor access and frequency, proximity to local roadheads, intermodal handling capability, dock and staging capacity, and established carrier contracts. Confirm handling equipment for palletized and temperature-controlled freight and documented load consolidation options.

Use inventory segmentation and centralized cross-docking to reduce double-handling; negotiate zone-skipping and consolidated outbound moves; employ pick-and-pack workflows tuned for mixed order profiles; and require consolidated billing and transparent dimensional weight pricing.

Negotiate clear KPIs: OTIF, order accuracy, inventory reconciliation cadence, average dwell time, and SLA remedies. Require transparent invoicing, defined tariff schedules for seasonal surcharges, minimum notice for capacity changes, and liquidation or exit terms to limit exposure.