Prioritize warehouse footprint and scalability, WMS/API integration, slotting and SKU velocity management, temperature-controlled capacity if needed, and proven KPIs (inventory accuracy, pick accuracy, OTIF). Validate carrier connectivity, lead times for inbound replenishment, and flexibility for seasonal volume spikes.

Strong rail and highway links reduce inland transit times and enable lower-cost intermodal moves; this can lower landed costs for inbound freight and improve predictability. Local LTL and regional parcel integrations reduce last-mile expense and support faster delivery windows for omnichannel orders.

Negotiate clear SLAs for pick/pack accuracy, order cycle time, on-time delivery, inventory accuracy, and return processing time. Include chargeback rules, audit rights, minimum performance thresholds, and escalation paths to align operational accountability with cost penalties or service credits.

Model landed cost by combining inventory carrying cost, safety-stock increases for longer lead times, inbound transport expense, and handling rates. Scenario-test SKU-level velocity to determine whether storage savings offset higher inbound or cross-dock costs and quantify break-even points for centralization versus multi-node networks.