Prioritize WMS integration (API/EDI), inventory accuracy, pick/pack throughput, SLA history, and real-time reporting. Also evaluate onboarding timelines, value‑added services (kitting, returns), and carrier connectivity to model true cost-per-order and service reliability.

Assess dock-door density, trailer parking, on-site TL/LTL carrier presence, proximity to intermodal terminals, and scheduled pickup frequency. These metrics influence lead times, freight routing flexibility, and distribution cost to large retail or industrial customers.

Require omnichannel order orchestration, distributed inventory options, returns processing, customizable packing, and accurate inventory synchronization across channels. Confirm SLA guarantees for cutoffs, same-day picking, and exception handling to protect customer experience.

Model total cost by combining storage, receiving, pick/pack, inbound freight, outbound parcel or LTL rates, value‑added fees, inventory carrying cost, and expected dwell times. Include scenario-based volumes, seasonality, and service-level penalties to compare real-world cost outcomes.