The difference between two carriers might be a couple of riyals per parcel. One complaint and a reshipment costs many times that gap.
1. Real coverage, not advertised coverage
Every carrier claims national coverage. Ask specifically about the regions your orders actually come from, and delivery times for each — not the overall average.
2. First-attempt delivery rate
The most important number, and nobody publishes it. Ask directly. Every extra attempt means delay, a complaint, and a chance of refusal.
3. Tracking quality for the customer
A tracking link that works and updates reduces "where is my order?" messages more than anything else. A carrier without reliable tracking turns your support into an enquiry desk.
4. How returns are handled
What does a return cost? How long until the parcel reaches you? Who absorbs a refusal at the door? Ask before signing, not after the first return.
5. Cash on delivery and settlement
If you rely on COD, ask when collected amounts are transferred — weekly or monthly? A delay here squeezes your cash flow directly.
Do not depend on one carrier
Enable at least two. When one fails during peak season — and it will — your store keeps running.