Focus on multimodal connectivity (highway and rail), carrier density for your lanes, available warehouse capacity and mezzanine space, WMS and API capabilities for real-time inventory, and the provider’s experience with your order profiles and value-added services. Also evaluate dock configuration, cross-dock capability, and typical yard and turn times for inbound trailers.

Model landed cost to customer including linehaul, last-mile, and inventory carrying cost. Factor in occupancy and labor rates, average handling time per SKU, and expected dwell. Compare guaranteed SLA penalties, chargeable accessorials, and incremental costs for seasonal peaks to determine total cost-to-serve versus transit-time trade-offs.

Validate WMS functionality (slotting, wave/pick-path optimization), omnichannel order orchestration, e-commerce API/EDI support, returns processing and reverse logistics flows, temperature-controlled options if needed, and real-time KPI reporting. Ensure integration roadmaps align with your OMS and carrier partners.