Prioritize proven WMS/WCS integrations, API-based order and inventory sync, SLA performance records for pick/pack/ship, reverse-logistics capability, and documented capacity planning for peak periods. Also assess yard and dock management, labor productivity KPIs, and contingency plans for disruptions.

Evaluate proximity to major highways, highway access times, rail or port interchanges if relevant, and the density of regional carrier lanes. Ask providers for lane-specific transit times, courier contract tiers, negotiated parcel rates, and on-time pickup statistics to model actual shipping costs.

Expect a mix of storage-per-pallet or per-cubic-foot rates, pick-and-pack fees (by piece or tier), inbound handling, kitting fees, and returns processing charges. Model total cost per order including shrink, handling, pallet handling, and potential accessorials to compare true cost-to-serve.

Require real-time inventory feeds, EDI/API order acknowledgements, exception alerts, and daily/weekly KPI dashboards covering inventory accuracy, order cycle time, and on-time shipments. Include clear SLA penalties, dispute resolution processes, and agreed change-control for software or scope changes.