Assess physical infrastructure (dock doors, racking, clear heights), WMS capabilities (real-time inventory, API/EDI), and connectivity to regional carriers. Validate lead times on core lanes, dock scheduling processes, SLAs for pick/pack accuracy, and the partner's experience with your SKU profiles and seasonal peaks.

Compare base storage rates plus handling fees (receiving, putaway, pick/pack), billing increments, minimum monthly charges, accessorials (returns, special handling), inbound consolidation costs, fuel/transport surcharges, and any seasonal or capacity-based premiums that affect total landed cost.

Key considerations include proximity to major highways and river ports, carrier density for parcel and LTL lanes, typical congestion patterns, and distance to primary customer clusters. These factors determine transit time variability, carrier selection options, and feasible delivery windows for last‑mile service levels.

Prioritize WMS/OMS interoperability, real-time inventory visibility, returns and reverse-logistics handling, kitting and light assembly, SKU-level traceability, and robust reporting. Confirm API/EDI support for order and shipment flows, SLA monitoring, and a clear escalation path for exceptions.