Prioritize racked storage density, SKU segmentation, pick‑pack efficiency, and WMS integration. Also assess cold‑chain capacity for perishables, cross‑dock throughput for rapid turnover, and SLAs for order accuracy and same‑day/next‑day picks to meet omnichannel expectations.

Closer proximity to the Pan‑American Highway and major feeder routes reduces door‑to‑door transit times, enables more frequent LTL and express pickups, and lowers fuel and driver time costs. That translates to better lead‑time predictability and lower landed cost per order.

Expect a mix of storage per pallet or cubic meter, activity‑based pick/pack fees, and inbound/outbound handling charges. Evaluate true cost‑to‑serve by modeling monthly volumes, seasonal peaks, and value‑added services; insist on transparent chargebacks and audited billing clauses.

Ask providers for historical peak throughput data, contingency labor pools, and temp‑staffing partnerships. Validate ramp timelines, overtime policies, and WMS transaction scaling limits to ensure the facility can expand slots, shifts, and throughput without service degradation.