Prioritize measurable SLAs (order lead time, OTIF), WMS capability and API/EDI integrations, storage density and scalability, inbound cross-dock throughput, carrier connectivity for regional lanes, and transparent pricing (pick/pack, storage, handling). Evaluate labor skills, on-site value-add services, and incident response procedures.

Closer proximity reduces drayage and line-haul costs, shortens last-mile windows, and lowers dwell time. Higher carrier density increases rate competition and routing flexibility, improving on-time delivery and enabling faster transit promises for eCommerce and B2B channels.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory, multi-carrier shipping integrations, EDI/API connectivity, order orchestration between channels, batch and lot tracking, reporting dashboards, and support for automation or robotics where volume justifies investment.

Include storage and pallet rates, pick-and-pack fees, inbound receiving and cross-dock charges, labeling/KAIZEN fees, outbound freight and fuel surcharges, returns processing, regional taxes or incentives, expected shrink, and any SLA penalty or rush-handling premiums.