Prioritize WMS compatibility, inventory accuracy, dock capacity, and SLA metrics for pick‑and‑pack and returns. Evaluate carrier connectivity and last‑mile partners to maintain delivery windows. Also confirm scalability for peak seasons and visibility integrations with your order management system.

Location determines road access to main arteries and proximity to customer clusters. Warehouses near major highways lower fuel and time costs and enable more direct routes, reducing lead times and variability in delivery windows while improving carrier utilization.

Look for certified temperature‑controlled zones, redundant refrigeration systems, continuous monitoring, and documented HACCP or similar protocols. Adequate dock sealing, separate airflow systems, and contingency power are essential to protect product integrity.

Negotiate transparent billing (storage, handling, receiving), minimums, and volume tiers. Set KPIs for order accuracy, on‑time shipments, inventory shrink, and chargeback windows. Include escalation paths, penalties for missed SLAs, and periodic rate reviews.

Conduct site visits, audit sample operations (picking, packing, returns), and run a pilot SKU program. Verify WMS integrations, onboarding timelines, and cross‑functional points of contact. Request references for similar SKU profiles and peak‑season performance data.