Prioritize network access (ports, rail, highway), WMS functionality and integration (APIs/EDI), throughput capacity and labor scalability, SLA and KPI terms, cost-to-serve modeling by SKU, cross-dock and returns capability, and carrier relationships that support your transit time targets.

Proximity to port terminals, intermodal rail and primary highways reduces dray and linehaul costs and shortens transit windows. Access to national parcel and regional LTL hubs enables more consistent cutoffs and lower last‑mile premium, improving delivery reliability and reducing inventory buffers.

Look for a modern WMS with real‑time inventory, support for batch and single-unit picking, configurable shipping rules, returns management, temperature-controlled zones if needed, and robust EDI/API connectivity to your storefront and carriers.

Negotiate scalable labor clauses, pre-agreed surge rates and minimums, clear SLA and penalty structures, forecast-driven capacity planning, and defined onboarding timelines. Include visibility commitments (daily metrics) and regular performance review cadences to manage peak risks.