Prioritize multimodal access (highway and rail links), proximity to Bothnian ports for export, local carrier density for last‑mile options, and 3PL integrations with major carriers' APIs. Also evaluate cross‑dock capacity and container handling if you plan shortsea or cross‑Baltic moves.

Lower rents and regional labor rates reduce storage and handling costs but balance against transit distance to key customers. Closer proximity to ports and highways shortens lead times; evaluate throughput, slotting efficiency, and seasonal labor plans when modeling landed cost.

Require proven pick‑and‑pack processes, batch and single‑unit picking flexibility, temperature‑controlled storage if needed, returns processing workflows, and WMS visibility with ecommerce platform integrations to support order routing and reverse logistics.

Set clear SLAs for order accuracy, on‑time outbound cutoffs, inventory reconciliation cadence, shrinkage/tolerance levels, and lead times for replenishment. Include KPIs for putaway velocity, pick performance, and incident response times, plus penalties or remediation clauses tied to critical failures.