Prioritize measurable operational capabilities: facility footprint and dock density, average pick-and-pack throughput, labor scalability, WMS/API integration, and proven SLA metrics (order accuracy, TT handling, and lead-time variance). Also evaluate returns processing, security standards, and contingency capacity for seasonal spikes.

Assess road quality and proximity to major arterial routes, frequency of regional carrier services, consolidation and cross-dock options, and intermodal access where applicable. Compare transit-time maps, carrier mix flexibility, and local pickup windows to estimate landed-cost improvements and on-time performance.

Compare unit economics: storage (per pallet/day), receiving and putaway, pick-and-pack (per pick or per order), kitting, and outbound freight accessorials. Include minimums, SLA penalties, seasonality surcharges, and integration/setup fees to calculate true cost-per-order and break-even throughput.

Require robust WMS with real-time inventory, barcode scanning, and API/EDI connectivity for order and shipment integration. Expect configurable KPI dashboards, exception alerts, batch/wave picking controls, and regular SLA reporting for accuracy, lead time, and fill rate to support continuous improvement.