Prioritize order accuracy, on-time-in-full (OTIF), pick-and-pack cycle times, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock lead times, and cost-per-order. Also evaluate WMS integration, reporting cadence, and SLA remedies to ensure visibility and measurable improvement when scaling operations.

Closer access to highways and port drayage routes shortens transit windows and reduces freight spend, especially for TL and intermodal shipments. It supports consolidation opportunities, improves predictability for inbound materials, and lowers last-mile variability that can inflate landed cost and service exceptions.

Key features include flexible racking, ample dock doors and yard space for TL/TM operations, dedicated cross-dock capability, temperature-controlled zones when required, robust security, and a WMS with API connectivity for order routing, real-time inventory, and carrier integrations.

Negotiate transparent rate structures (storage, handling, pick/pack), clear SLA metrics with defined remedies, minimum volume terms, periodic rate review clauses, liability and insurance provisions, lead-time commitments for onboarding, and exit terms that limit surprise costs during scale adjustments.