Prioritize transit time to primary markets, carrier density (parcel and freight), WMS/API integrations, security and compliance (customs/cold chain), and flexibility for seasonal scale. Also evaluate cost-per-order, minimums, and value-added services like kitting and returns to match your fulfillment model.

Facilities closer to main corridors and distribution nodes reduce mileage-dependent fuel and line-haul rates, lowering LTL/FTL costs and improving SLA compliance. For eCommerce, proximity to dense population centers shortens last-mile routes and reduces parcel surcharges, improving delivery speed and cost predictability.

Require real-time inventory visibility, EDI/API connectivity, order orchestration across sales channels, return management, and reporting for KPIs like OTIF and order cycle time. Confirm support for tiered SLAs, batch processing, and security controls for sensitive SKUs.

Negotiate clear KPIs (OTIF, accuracy), rate transparency (storage, pick/pack, inbound/outbound), minimum volume terms, liability limits, and exit/transition clauses. Include change-management provisions for scaling, seasonal peaks, and technology onboarding to minimize operational disruption.