Prioritize WMS with API capability, real-time inventory visibility, multi-temperature storage if needed, cross-dock capacity, and direct access to regional carriers or line-haul services. Confirm SLA metrics, onboarding timeline, and peak-season labor planning to ensure consistent fulfillment and reporting.

Key cost drivers are storage (per pallet/cubic meter), pick-and-pack fees (per line or per order), inbound receiving and putaway, value-added services (kitting, labeling), returns processing, and transportation pass-throughs. Evaluate minimums, billing cycles, and chargeback policies to compare net landed cost accurately.

Require KPIs such as order accuracy, on-time dispatch rate, dock-to-stock cycle time, inventory accuracy, and claims rate. Contractually define SLA remedies, capacity ramp plans for peaks, data integration standards, audit rights, and explicit terms for storage, demurrage, and hazardous goods handling.