Require KPIs that reflect order and inventory reliability: inventory accuracy, order cycle time, pick-and-pack rate, OTIF (on-time in-full), return processing time, and chargeback incidence. Include SLA penalties and regular reporting cadence, sample audits, and dashboard access via WMS/API to validate performance and support continuous improvement.

Confirm multimodal access (national expressways, rail spurs, nearby air cargo capacity), dock configuration, trailer and container handling, bonded or FTZ capability, and resident carrier networks for LTL/FTL and express couriers. Also assess cross-dock capabilities and local trucking lane density for last-mile cost and lead-time control.

Optimize by using inventory placement across several sites, zone-skipping, multi-client warehousing, negotiated carrier rates, dimensional-weight and packaging optimization, and automation where volume warrants. Integrate WMS with order platforms for smarter routing and dynamic replenishment to reduce safety stock and improve fill rates.

Define service requirements and peak profiles, run a structured RFP, perform site and systems due diligence, pilot with limited SKUs, finalize SOPs and chargeback rules, plan IT integrations and data mapping, and schedule phased cutovers with contingency plans and KPI checkpoints to validate capacity and quality before full migration.