Evaluate transit times to key customer clusters, dock and yard capacity, SKU storage density, returns processing workflows, and WMS/Ecommerce platform integrations. Also review SLA penalties, inventory accuracy metrics, and on-site value-added services to ensure alignment with omnichannel requirements.

Access to river transport and frequent trucking lanes lowers inbound consolidation costs and can reduce lead times for bulk shipments. Local carrier density improves last‑mile options and volume pricing. Consider multimodal routing to balance cost versus delivery speed.

Prioritize facilities with racking for pallet density, dedicated pack stations, barcode scanning/WMS, real-time inventory APIs, and scalable labor pools. Technology that enables batch picking, returns automation, and carrier rate shopping accelerates scale while controlling OPEX.

Negotiate clear SLA definitions with service credits, transparent activity-based pricing (picking, receiving, storage), scheduled rate reviews, and caps on pass-through charges. Include exit terms, inventory reconciliation processes, and a roadmap for volume discounts to manage margin risk.