Prioritize WMS/API integration, inventory accuracy guarantees, order cycle-times, on-time shipping SLAs, transparent cost-to-serve, and clearly defined returns processing. Also validate peak-season scalability, tech-driven reporting, and contingency plans for carrier disruptions to maintain service levels across channels.

Location influences last-mile distance, zonal rates, and carrier transit lanes. A centrally placed facility reduces delivery windows and freight spend to regional clusters, while lower rents and labor can cut fixed handling costs—enabling more aggressive two-day or same-day fulfillment economics when matched with the right carrier network.

Mandate real-time inventory visibility (WMS/API), automated order acknowledgements (EDI/API), and dashboards for accuracy, OTIF, order cycle time, pick/pack productivity, and returns metrics. Contractually require regular scorecard reviews, root-cause analysis for exceptions, and agreed remediation timelines to drive operational improvement.