Prioritize carrier connectivity (parcel integrators and regional FTL/LTL), WMS visibility and APIs, pick/pack accuracy, scalable racking and dock capacity for peaks, returns handling, and proven SLA performance. Verify throughput metrics and a track record with similar SKU mixes before contracting.

Brandenburg's access to A10/A12 corridors, intermodal rail terminals and nearby airport freight services shortens lead times into Poland and Eastern Europe, enables efficient LTL/FTL routing, and expands carrier options for international and regional lanes, reducing empty miles and transit variability.

Look for ample dock doors, high bay racking, configurable staging areas, mezzanine options, sufficient yard space for staging trailers, robust slotting and temporary labor plans, and flexible contract terms to scale footprint during peak windows.

Compare land and lease rates, labor wage differentials versus metropolitan Berlin, energy and utility costs, local tax structure and any regional investment incentives. Factor in inbound/outbound transport costs to core markets and typical handling rates to model true landed fulfillment cost.

Request live demos of WMS and TMS integrations, confirm available APIs/EDI endpoints, review reporting and real‑time tracking samples, ask for compliance certifications (e.g., AEO, ISO), obtain client references, and run a short pilot to validate data flows and SLAs.