Prioritize a robust warehouse management system (real-time inventory), documented pick-and-pack accuracy, returns processing, temperature control if needed, and scalability of labor and racking. Verify technology integrations (ERP/shopify) and SLA-backed performance targets for order cycle times and error rates.

Evaluate proximity to major highways and freight corridors, LTL and TL consolidation capabilities, access to regional carriers and parcel hubs, and modal options. Lower first-mile and final-mile legs reduce landed cost and improve predictability for cross-border and domestic lanes.

Compare OTIF (on-time-in-full), order accuracy, average pick-to-ship lead time, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, and cost-per-order. Include measurement of seasonal throughput and capacity limits to ensure provider performance under peak demand.

Negotiate transparent rate cards, storage tiers, minimums, and clearly defined accessorials. Include SLA credits, service review cadence, capacity ramp clauses, and termination or transition timelines to minimize surprises and manage cost volatility.