Prioritize port and rail adjacency for inbound/outbound cadence, WMS/TMS integration for inventory visibility, SLA performance (pick accuracy, OTIF), scalability for peak seasons, bonded and customs capabilities, and local labor models. Cross-check KPIs and sample reports during selection.

Closer port and rail access reduces drayage and handling steps, lowering landed cost and variability. It increases carrier options for ocean, short-sea, and intermodal services, shortens lead times, and simplifies consolidation for lower unit freight rates and predictable ETAs.

Require real-time inventory visibility, API or EDI integrations with your OMS, support for multiple fulfillment channels (B2C, B2B, retail replenishment), returns management, temperature-controlled storage if needed, and reporting dashboards for SLA tracking and cost transparency.

Yes. Look for providers offering shared or co-warehousing, usage-based pick-and-pack pricing, and flexible onboarding. Negotiate minimums, seasonal capacity clauses, and service-level credits to balance cost with the ability to scale during growth or peak periods.