Prioritize transit times to your customer base, carrier density for last-mile options, WMS/TMS interoperability for real-time visibility, warehouse layout and automation for throughput, labor flexibility for peaks, and value-added services (kitting, returns). Contract clarity on billing, minimums, and onboarding timelines is also essential.

Location drives zone-based parcel rates, LTL class lanes, and fuel surcharge impacts. A site near major highways and intermodal terminals reduces mileage and transit time, while proximity to carrier hubs improves service consistency. Factor drive time to high-demand ZIPs to estimate average transit days and transport spend.

Require a modern WMS with API/EDI connectivity, dock scheduling and appointment systems, pallet racking and cross-dock capacity, scalable labor management and temporary staffing plans, and automation for repetitive tasks. Visibility for ASN/PO management and performance dashboards helps manage peak risks.

Negotiate clear pricing for storage, pick/pack, and inbound/outbound handling; minimums and banded volume discounts; SLA metrics for order accuracy, on-time shipments, and receiving lead times; chargeback thresholds; audit rights; and termination notice terms to preserve flexibility and cost predictability.