Require a modern WMS with API connectivity, scalable racked and bulk storage, pick-and-pack accuracy guarantees, cross-dock and staging areas, temperature control if needed, and clear KPIs for order accuracy, on-time shipment, and inventory reconciliation. Also verify labor flexibility for seasonal peaks and real-time inventory visibility.

Bathurst’s proximity to primary highways and regional ports shortens trunk transit to major metros and enables better carrier density. That improves route optimization, reduces multi-stop runs, and increases leverage for rate negotiations. Use zone-based modeling to quantify parcel savings and LTL consolidation benefits.

Expect combined pricing: storage (per pallet/day or cubic), handling (per pick/pack/scan), inbound receiving and put-away, outbound freight accessorials, and technology or integration fees. Key cost drivers include SKU velocity, cubic utilization, order profile, labor shifts, and minimum throughput commitments.

Run a staged pilot with representative SKUs, request API sandboxes and sample EDI/API transactions, conduct a site visit and operational audit, review SLA clauses with penalties, and check references for cycle-count accuracy and on-time fulfillment metrics. Include an agreed ramp plan and KPIs for the first 90 days.