Prioritize WMS integration, throughput capacity, cross-dock and staging space, SLA-defined pick/pack accuracy, and demonstrated carrier partnerships. Also evaluate labor flexibility, onboarding timelines, and surge handling processes to match seasonal SKU velocity.

Location influences lane density, carrier availability, and driving hours. Warehouses near major provincial routes typically reduce road kilometers and enable more consistent delivery windows, lowering fuel and carrier premium costs while improving on-time performance.

Require real-time WMS API access, EDI or API order flows, inventory hold/release controls, PO reconciliation, and reporting dashboards. Ask for documented cycle-count procedures and KPIs for fill rate, accuracy, and lead-time variance.

Negotiate volume-based tier pricing, consolidated pick/pack rates, minimum monthly throughput credits, and fuel or accessorial pass-through caps. Consider longer-term minimums in exchange for lower per-unit storage and handling fees, and require clear SLA penalties for service failures.