Prioritize proven autoroute and regional rail access, WMS and API integration capabilities, flexible labor and scalable storage, transparent SLA and performance metrics, and carrier diversity for last‑mile options. Also assess value‑added services (kitting, assembly, returns) and proximity to your primary customer clusters to minimize lead times and transport cost.

Model landed cost using local occupancy rates, drayage to main routes, and typical carrier rates from Somme; compare that to service levels such as order cycle time, on‑time fill, and damage rates. Validate WMS functionality and reporting, minimum order requirements, and scalability for seasonal peaks to ensure total cost of service aligns with delivery expectations.

Verify direct access to major autoroutes and freight rail where applicable, distance and transit times to Channel ports, availability of freight forwarders and LTL/parcel carriers serving UK and Benelux, customs experience for cross‑border flows, and yard capacity for inbound trailer handling to avoid bottlenecks.