Prioritize measurable KPIs: transit time to customer zones, cost-per-order, pick accuracy, on-time ship rate, and returns processing speed. Confirm WMS/API integrations, slotting and labor model flexibility, carrier mix (parcel + LTL/TL), and contingency plans for seasonality and peak volumes.

Access to regional highways and intermodal terminals reduces linehaul miles and LTL breaks, lowering transportation spend. High parcel and regional carrier density increases daily pickup options and negotiated service tiers, enabling better ground transit times and lower zone-based costs.

Require real-time WMS with API connections for order, inventory, and shipping; support for barcode/RFID, batch & wave picking, and configurable SLA monitoring. Ask for native returns workflows, multi-channel inventory allocation, and reporting that maps to cost-per-order and OTIF targets.

Compare landed cost impacts: occupancy (rent, taxes), inbound/outbound transport, labor rates and productivity, carton/packaging costs, and chargebacks for errors. Factor in incentive programs, proximity to customers to reduce transit zones, and expected inventory turnover to model true per-order cost.