Prioritize WMS and API connectivity for real-time inventory and order routing, picking accuracy targets, dock capacity and throughput, returns management, and the ability to scale labor. Verify SLA metrics, reporting cadence, and contingency plans for peak seasons to ensure consistent service across channels.

Location impacts freight lanes and pickup frequency. A site near Baddeck can lower last-mile mileage to regional customers and enable efficient consolidation for LTL and parcel. Evaluate carrier networks, accessorials, and weekly pickup schedules to quantify transit time improvements and rate differentials.

Look for flexible slotting, scalable labor pools, additional dock doors for inbound/outbound segregation, temporary storage capacity, and robust returns and reverse-logistics processes. Clear SLAs for pick/pack accuracy and same-day cutoffs are essential for omnichannel performance.

Negotiate transparent rate tables, minimums, and volume tiers; define KPIs such as on-time shipment, picking accuracy, and inventory accuracy with associated remedies; include audit rights, capacity guarantees for peak windows, and clearly defined liability and insurance clauses.