Assess WMS/WCS capability and API connectivity to your OMS, number of dock doors and throughput lanes, racking and automation readiness, cross‑dock and staging capacity, and established relationships with regional carriers and parcel networks. These elements determine scalability, visibility, and end‑to‑end transit reliability.

Run a total cost analysis that includes transportation (inbound and outbound), inventory carrying, labor, and fulfillment error costs. Model lead times and last‑mile mileage impacts on service. Consider pilot programs to validate transit times and damage/returns rates before committing to larger capacity shifts.

Specify order accuracy, on‑time shipment rate, pick‑to‑pack cycle times, inventory accuracy, return-to-stock lead time, and chargeback policies for noncompliance. Require real‑time reporting, exception alerts, and a documented capacity plan for seasonal surges.

Prioritize providers offering bonded storage, in‑house customs brokerage partners, consolidation services, and documented experience handling export documentation. Proximity to freight forwarders and secondary ports reduces inland drayage and shortens ocean/air lead times for cross‑border shipments.