Require proof of a modern WMS with API/EDI connectivity, sufficient dock-door and staging capacity, racking and storage density, temperature-controlled zones where needed, robust security and inventory accuracy KPIs (pick accuracy, on-time shipments). Also validate scalability for peak seasons and documented SLA enforcement and penalties.

Assess all line items: inbound transport and duties, receiving labor, storage per pallet/sku, pick-pack and packing labor, outbound freight lanes, returns handling and cross-dock fees. Model scenarios by SKU velocity and order profile to reveal cost drivers and identify where consolidation or slotting can reduce per-order costs.

Focus on carrier lane density to target markets, frequency of departures, multimodal routing options (road, rail, sea), average transit-time variability, and last-mile delivery partners. Confirm carrier contracts, peak-season capacity commitments and on-time performance to maintain promised delivery windows.

Look for in-house or partnered customs brokerage, bonded warehouse options, experience with HS classification and preferential origin claims, electronic documentation workflows, tariff and duty advisory, and proven processes for export declarations and import clearance to avoid delays at borders.