Prioritize network location relative to your customer base, carrier density and transit time performance, WMS and marketplace integrations, clear SLAs for order accuracy and velocity, and transparent pricing that separates storage, pick/pack, and accessorial fees. Also assess scalability, security, and experience with returns and reverse logistics.

Request carrier partner lists, historical transit-time metrics, and on‑time delivery KPIs. Validate last‑mile coverage maps for your ZIP/POSTAL areas, audit tracking integration, and review exception handling processes. Ask for references and sample performance reports covering peak season volumes.

Look for climate-controlled zones with monitoring and alerting, segregated secure storage, appropriate racking and load capacities, sufficient dock and staging areas for oversized freight, and documented processes for insurance, inventory reconciliation, and regulatory compliance relevant to your product category.

Common models separate storage, pick/pack, inbound receiving, and accessorials; volume tiers and minimums are typical. Negotiate defined SLAs with credits for misses, volume-based discounts, caps on ancillary fees, flexible minimums for seasonality, and clear termination and data portability clauses to protect operational resilience.