Prioritize measurable KPIs: inventory accuracy, pick-and-pack error rate, OTIF delivery, order cycle time, and on-time receiving. Require modern WMS with API connectivity, real-time inventory visibility, analytics for cost-to-serve, and clear SLA penalties or credits tied to performance.

Location determines lane lengths and carrier choices: proximity to expressways, rail terminals, and port feeders shortens transit time and reduces fuel and drayage costs. Good carrier density enables competitive freight rates and flexible routing for peak periods, lowering overall landed cost.

Negotiate transparent line-items for storage, pick/pack, inbound handling, and accessorials; caps on rate increases; minimum volume terms; defined onboarding and exit clauses; and SLA credits. Seek scalable pricing tiers to avoid overpaying during seasonality or rapid growth.

Implement centralized inventory master data, distributed order management, cycle-count programs, safety-stock policies per node, and automated order-routing logic based on proximity, carrier cost, and SLA. Integrate ERP and marketplace channels to minimize oversell and improve fulfillment speed.