Prioritize fulfillment SLAs (pick/pack speed and accuracy), warehouse automation and WMS compatibility, carrier connectivity, labor availability and seasonal scalability, and transparent KPI reporting. Also evaluate value-added services (kitting, returns processing) and systems integration to ensure real-time inventory visibility and seamless order orchestration.

Proximity to highways, intermodal terminals, and parcel/LTL hubs reduces last-mile miles and transit time, lowering fuel and cartage costs. Strong carrier partnerships enable negotiated rates and service options (next-day, deferred), which directly affect landed cost and delivery reliability across your target zones.

Analyze all-in warehousing fees (storage by tier, occupancy minimums), inbound receiving and put-away charges, pick/pack and cartonization rules, parcel and LTL pass-throughs, chargebacks for noncompliance, and IT/integration costs. Model typical order profiles and seasonality to compare true total cost to serve rather than headline rates.

Require demonstrated processes for split-fulfillment, real-time inventory synchronization across channels, dedicated returns workflows, reverse-logistics capacity, and SLA-backed handling times. Validate via site visits, tech demos of WMS/OMS integrations, and pilot programs that measure returns throughput and disposition accuracy.