Prioritize dock and staging capacity, cross-dock and pick-pack capabilities, WMS and API integrations, SLA-driven carrier pickup frequencies, and the provider's experience with inventory synchronization for online and retail channels. Also assess seasonal labor plans and contingency capacity for peak demand.

Carrier access determines pickup frequency and routing; closer access to major trunk roads reduces travel time and enables daily parcel and pallet pickups. Improved routing and consolidation in the region reduce per-shipment tariffs and minimize chargeable transit days, lowering total landed distribution cost.

Model fixed space costs, labor (including overtime and seasonal premium), handling rates (receiving, storage, pick-pack, returns), outbound transportation estimates, and technology/onboarding fees. Include inventory-carrying cost impacts from longer replenishment cycles or multi-site stocking strategies.

Look for a robust WMS with real-time inventory visibility, API-based order and shipment integrations, support for barcode/RFID, automated pick/pack workflows, and reporting tools for SLA, order cycle times, and carrier performance to enable tighter operational control.