Prioritize multimodal access (port, road, rail), bonded storage if you handle imports, robust WMS/TMS integrations, transparent SLAs and KPIs, scalable labor plans for seasonality, and experience with both D2C and B2B workflows. Review carrier connectivity and zone transit times to key urban centers.

Industrial rents in Santander are generally competitive relative to larger Spanish logistics hubs, helping lower storage costs. Labor availability is strong for warehouse roles, but peak-season labor rates can rise. For B2B, space and pallet management are key; for eCommerce, put-away efficiency and picking throughput drive labor spend.

Evaluate feeder and short-sea services at the Port of Santander, road transit times on A-8/E-70 toward the Basque and Iberian corridors, and rail options for larger volumes. Check daily cutoffs for parcel carriers, last-mile partners for urban centers, and customs clearance speed if moving goods to the EU or the UK.

Require scalable slotting and labor plans, flexible contract terms for temporary capacity, integrated returns processing with inspection and refurbishment workflows, automated RMA routing in the WMS, and clear KPIs for returns velocity and cost recovery to maintain margin during peaks.