Evaluate highway and cross-border accessibility, dock and staging capacity, carrier density, proximity to customs, labor skillsets, and real‑estate cost. Prioritize WMS/API integration, pick accuracy, SLA tiers, and contingency planning for peak seasons and cross-border delays.

Model fixed costs (rent, racking, utilities), variable costs (pick/pack, labor, material handling), transportation, cross-border fees, and inventory carrying. Run scenarios with SKU velocity and seasonality to compare landed cost per order and break‑even volumes across sites.

Require proof of carrier partnerships (FTL/LTL), integrated customs brokerage or preferred broker relationships, consolidation services, bonded yard options, and SLAs for clearance and handover to reduce dwell time and expedite cross-border shipments.

Insist on WMS with API/EDI connectivity, real‑time inventory visibility, order management integration, and KPIs such as pick accuracy, order cycle time, on‑time dispatch, and inventory reconciliation frequency. Ensure reporting cadence and escalation paths are contractual.

During visits, verify dock count and layout, racking and storage types, security and insurance, staffing levels and training, equipment condition, health & safety records, IT infrastructure, and sample KPI reports. Review disaster recovery, insurance, and contractual liability clauses before onboarding.