Prioritize order accuracy, on‑time shipment rate, inventory accuracy, average pick time, and SLA variance. Also evaluate throughput capacity, peak season scalability, chargeback history, and WMS/ERP integration capabilities to ensure operational alignment with demand patterns.

Carrier density and multimodal links reduce empty miles and allow route optimization. Facilities near major highways, rail terminals, or air cargo hubs lower freight spend and transit time, improving delivery windows and reducing safety stock requirements.

Key services include kitting, lot tracking, lot/batch control, reverse logistics, and temperature‑controlled storage. Technology priorities are real‑time WMS, EDI/API connectivity, inventory visibility dashboards, and automated returns processing to minimize cost‑to‑serve.

Assess proximity to major customer clusters, carrier hubs, and import/export gateways. Compare land and labor rates, transit density, and distribution center capacity. Factor in cross‑dock options, regional delivery windows, and duty/tariff implications for import flows.