Compare landed cost per order, storage per pallet/month, pick-and-pack cost per line, order accuracy, on-time outbound performance, inbound dock-to-stock lead time, inventory days-of-supply, SLA penalty structure, and integration costs for WMS/ERP connectivity. Use total cost-to-serve rather than standalone rates.

A strategically sited DC reduces transit miles to regional population centers, increases parcel carrier density, and shortens LTL legs. That lowers variability in delivery windows, enables more competitive rate negotiations, and improves ability to route orders for same/next-day service.

Prioritize WMS integration, inventory visibility, scalable picking and returns processing, value-added services (kitting, label customization), temperature control where needed, and proven SLAs for accuracy and lead times. Assess carrier connections and cross-dock options to support omnichannel flows.

Typical onboarding runs 8–14 weeks: discovery and scope, systems integration and EDI/WMS mapping, process design and SOPs, pilot volume testing, and staged ramp to full volume. Allocate contingency time for inventory reconciliation, carrier set-up and performance tuning.