Prioritize facility layout and usable cubic capacity, dock and throughput capacity, proximity to main road corridors, carrier pickup windows, labor skill and availability, lease flexibility, and technology (WMS and API capability). Also request KPIs on order accuracy, lead times, and capacity buffers to model service levels against demand peaks.

Racking density and layout determine storage costs per SKU and picking efficiency; temperature zones expand product assortments but add operating cost; dedicated throughput design (cross-dock vs. bulk-to-carton) impacts order cycle times. Match facility features to SKU velocity to control labor and transport spend.

Require a WMS with real-time inventory visibility, API or EDI integrations with marketplaces and carriers, automated order routing, returns management workflows, and dashboarding for SLA, inventory aging, and cost-per-order metrics. Clear onboarding timelines for integration are essential.

Compare line-item costs: storage ($/pallet or $/CUFT), pick-and-pack ($/order or $/line), inbound receiving, value-added services, monthly minimums, and transport assumptions for typical lanes. Model scenarios for seasonal peaks and returns to see true cost per shipped unit and service trade-offs.

Include KPIs for order accuracy, on-time shipment rate, average order cycle time, receiving and putaway times, inventory accuracy, claims and damage rates, and capacity commitments. Define escalation paths, penalty or remediation terms, and regular operational reviews to keep performance aligned to business goals.