Prioritize measurable KPIs and capabilities:

• Inventory accuracy and WMS integration
• Dock and cross-dock throughput
• Pick-and-pack SLA tiers and peak scalability
• Carrier connectivity and parcel contract options
• Reporting, billing transparency, and onboarding timelines

A Hanover location shortens road and rail transit to northern Germany and neighboring Benelux markets, increasing carrier options for palletized LTL and FTL lanes. Expect improved schedule reliability from multimodal access and denser carrier density, which can reduce buffer inventory and improve delivery windows.

Require a modern WMS with API connectivity, slotting and slot-management, configurable picking methods (batch, zone, wave), real-time inventory visibility, support for value-added services (kitting, returns), and SLA-driven labor planning to handle seasonality without degrading service.

Compare proposals using a cost-to-serve model that includes inbound receiving, storage per pallet and per SKU, pick-and-pack per order, returns handling, and outbound carrier costs. Normalize volumes and seasonality, validate minimums and accessorials, and request sample invoices or a modeled month to compare all-in landed costs.