Prioritize operational throughput (pick/pack rates, cross-dock capacity), technology interoperability (WMS/TMS/APIs), inventory accuracy, SLA metrics for order cycle time and on-time delivery, temperature-control if required, and scalable labor plans to manage peaks without service degradation.

Location affects inbound routing and outbound delivery windows: facilities closer to coastal ports or major feeder routes reduce ocean-to-door transit and handling costs. Proximity to regional carrier nodes lowers parcel access fees and shortens last-mile time, improving customer experience and lowering expedited freight spend.

Key capabilities include flexible bay layouts for fast cross-docking, dedicated returns processing, scalable storage (bulk and slot-based), temperature-controlled zones, automation options for peak throughput, and workforce flexing with robust scheduling and training.

Include clear SLAs on order accuracy, lead time, and on-time delivery; chargeback and penalty clauses for noncompliance; inventory reconciliation cadence; audit and audit-rights; IT integration timelines; minimum volume and termination terms; and contingency clauses for capacity or force majeure events.