Prioritize SLA metrics (OTD, order accuracy, cut‑off times), technology compatibility (WMS, APIs), value‑added services (kitting, returns), throughput capacity, and pricing transparency (storage tiers, pick/pack, inbound handling). Also assess contingency planning for labor and transport disruptions.

Location dictates available carrier lanes and frequency, which directly affects transit time and parcel zone costs. Proximity to highways and rail terminals reduces linehaul expense and diminishes variability in transit times, lowering safety stock and overall landed cost.

Look for flexible labor pools, scalable slotting and batching processes, temporary surge capacity, cross‑dock capability, and automation options (conveyor, sortation). Reliable real‑time inventory visibility and fast onboarding reduce ramp time for seasonal peaks.

Benchmark using normalized cost-per-order metrics across expected SKU velocity, review tiered storage and minimums, include performance-based clauses for accuracy and on‑time delivery, define chargeback rules for exceptions, and require transparency on pass‑through costs (freight, duties).