Prioritize WMS/API integration, dock door and racking capacity, slotting efficiency and cube utilization, SLA for order lead times, and proven value‑added services (kitting, returns, labeling). Also assess carrier connectivity, labor scalability for peak seasons, and security/compliance measures that affect service reliability and cost.

Warehouses closer to highways and carrier hubs reduce transit times and last‑mile fees but may command higher occupancy costs. More peripheral sites lower rent but increase inbound drayage. Use landed‑cost modeling, zone‑skipping analysis, and carrier rate density to quantify trade‑offs between service levels and per‑unit distribution cost.

Demand real‑time inventory visibility, robust API/WMS integrations, scalable labor programs, and automated or semi‑automated picking for volume surges. Confirm established reverse‑logistics workflows, SLA-backed KPIs for accuracy and cycle time, and ability to provide value‑added services like kitting and light assembly.

Verify availability of bonded or customs‑cleared storage if cross‑border transit is involved, validate temperature mapping and active monitoring for cold chain, confirm hazardous materials handling certifications where applicable, and review traceability, documentation, and audit processes to ensure compliance with import/export regulations.