Prioritize dock capacity and berth access for your SKU profile, cold-chain and bulk handling if needed, proven WMS and EDI/API integrations, and carrier frequency for scheduled sailings and air options. Also assess local transload capability, customs/brokerage relationships, and contingency plans for weather-related schedule changes.

Seasonal storms and limited berthing can extend lead times; build buffer stock, stagger replenishment, and negotiate SLAs that account for berth windows. Use prepositioning, alternative routing, and collaboration with freight forwarders to reduce stockout risk and maintain predictable cutoffs during peak seasons.

Model warehousing fees (storage, pick-and-pack), inbound handling and drayage, port and berthing surcharges, demurrage, temperature-controlled storage premiums, carrier fuel/seasonal surcharges, customs/brokerage, returns handling, and inventory carrying cost to compare true landed cost across providers.

Request site visits or virtual tours, run a technical WMS integration test, review SLA language and KPIs (OTIF, order cycle time, accuracy), ask for recent customer references and audit reports, execute pilot shipments to validate lead times, and confirm certifications for temperature control, hazardous materials, or seafood handling as applicable.