Prioritize location relative to major highways and customs points, warehouse layout and racking capacity, presence of a modern WMS and carrier APIs, demonstrated SLA performance (pick accuracy, on-time shipments), trained labor availability, and value-added services such as kitting and returns. Confirm service scalability for peak demand and clear processes for inventory reconciliation.

Shorter first- and last-mile distances reduce transit time and variable transport costs, improving delivery windows and lowering detention. Good carrier density increases route options and competitive pricing. Proximity to corridors also reduces variability, improving schedule reliability and lowering buffer inventory needs across the network.

Expect core capabilities like pallet storage, pick-and-pack, batch and wave picking, basic cold-chain where available, returns processing, and basic kitting. Also evaluate WMS features (real-time inventory, lot control), integration options for marketplaces/carriers, reporting, and reverse-logistics workflows to support omnichannel requirements.

Negotiate transparent rate cards with volume tiers, defined SLA metrics and penalties, minimum notice and termination terms, inventory liability and insurance limits, onboarding and exit transfer processes, and periodic benchmarking clauses. Build in trial periods and volume-based discounts to align pricing with realized throughput and service levels.