Key metrics include on-time shipment rate, order accuracy, dock-to-stock cycle time, and inventory holding cost. Evaluate WMS and EDI/APIs for integration, carrier connectivity for multi-carrier rates, and scalability of labor and storage. Consider SLA penalties, reverse logistics capabilities, and peak-season labor plans in your selection.

Warehouse proximity to major highways and regional distribution nodes reduces linehaul distance and enables same- or next-day delivery windows in primary markets. Shorter routes lower variable freight spend and shrink delivery time variability, improving customer experience and lowering failed-delivery costs for both eCommerce and B2B customers.

Inspect dock configuration, clear heights, racking density, and stormwater/drainage. Verify redundancy for power and internet, confirm WMS functionality and real-time inventory visibility, check security and insurance coverage, and review labor availability and training programs to ensure continuity during peaks or disruptions.

Compare fixed and variable costs: rent, labor, handling, and inventory carrying versus savings in linehaul and delivery. Model total landed cost by SKU across projected volumes and service levels. Factor in capital tie-up, expansion flexibility, and value-added services like kitting or returns management when assessing trade-offs.