Evaluate SLA clarity (order to ship time, on-time shipping), KPI consistency (pick accuracy, inventory accuracy), and tech interoperability (WMS, API, EDI). Require real-time visibility, audit trail reporting, and penalties/incentives tied to measurable performance to align operations with your service commitments.

Assess proximity to major highways and rail links, availability of TL/LTL consolidation services, frequency of regional carrier routes, and last-mile partnerships. Consolidation windows, cross-dock options, and access to competitive carrier lanes drive lower outbound costs and faster delivery to primary markets.

Require scalable racked storage, surge labor plans, flexible slotting, quality inspection stations, kitting/assembly, and reverse logistics processing. Confirm the provider's ability to scale labor and throughput for peak seasons while maintaining pick accuracy and return turnaround SLA.

Model total landed cost including inbound freight, domestically outbound rates, inventory carrying, labor, real estate, customs/duties, and service level differentials. Run scenario analyses with varied demand profiles and a short pilot to measure real operating costs and service implications before full migration.