Prioritize carrier connectivity (national parcel and LTL), warehouse footprint and racking, IT integrations (WMS + marketplace/ERP APIs), SLA commitments for picking/dispatch, and value‑added services such as kitting and returns processing. Also evaluate contingency plans for seasonal surges and local labor availability.

A Kempsey location typically reduces zone and linehaul charges for customers along the Mid North Coast and northern NSW by lowering last‑mile distances. You may trade slightly longer transit to major metros for lower land and storage costs, improving per‑unit economics for regional fulfillment and reducing overall landed cost to nearby customers.

Confirm real‑time WMS visibility, EDI/API connectivity to your sales channels and carriers, inventory hold and lot control, batch/expiry tracking if applicable, and reporting dashboards. Technology fit affects lead times, stock accuracy, and the ability to automate carrier selection and rate shopping.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, pick/pack cutoffs, and dispatch windows; minimum and variable cost structures; volume flexibility clauses; liability and insurance terms; KPIs with penalties/incentives; and procedures for seasonal scaling, inventory reconciliation, and dispute resolution.