Prioritize measurable KPIs and systems: WMS/TMS integration, order-to-ship SLA, inventory accuracy, real-time traceability, value-added service capability (kitting, returns), bonded or customs facilitation where needed, and demonstrable carrier relationships for last-mile reach to Hanoi and northern provinces.

Proximity to northern ports and land corridors reduces sea-to-inland dray and overland transit for northern lanes, while multimodal options enable cost-versus-speed trade-offs. Strong regional carrier density improves frequency and last-mile coverage; evaluate intermodal pricing, lead-time variability, and seasonal capacity when modeling landed cost.

Look for robust inventory controls, zone-directed picking, batch/lot traceability, returns processing, kitting and light assembly, cold-chain if required, bonded or free-zone options for import/export, and certifications or audit records that match your product risk profile.

Evaluate proximity to ports and highways, access to skilled labor, utility reliability, flood and climate risk, yard and dock capacity, lease flexibility and expansion options, local incentives or industrial zone advantages, and total landed-cost impact on service levels.