Prioritize proximity to major highways for reduced transit times, facility metrics (clear height, dock doors, racking density), labor availability, and WMS/TMS integration. Also evaluate SLA performance, inbound/outbound lead times, value-added services (kitting, returns), and the provider’s ability to scale during peak demand.

Compare true landed cost by combining storage ($/pallet/month), pick/pack and handling fees, inbound/outbound freight, cross-dock fees, minimums, and return-processing costs. Factor inventory days, order profiles (parcel vs. pallet), and tech integration costs to model total cost-per-order or cost-per-pallet.

Require API or EDI connectivity to your ERP, a modern WMS with real-time inventory, and TMS capabilities for carrier rate and routing visibility. Key KPIs: order accuracy, on-time fulfillment (OTIF), dock-to-stock time, inventory variance, and average order cycle time.

Look for consolidation and deconsolidation, pallet optimization, pallet labeling, customs-friendly documentation support, bonded storage options if needed, and reverse-logistics capabilities. These services reduce cross-border complexity and improve per-shipment economics for B2B lanes.