Evaluate transit time matrices to primary customer zones, carrier coverage (parcel & LTL), facility throughput (dock doors, cross-dock capability), WMS and API integration, and SLA-backed KPIs for accuracy and on-time shipments. Also assess scalability for peak seasons and reverse logistics capability.

Proximity to highways and carrier hubs typically reduces LTL and last-mile transit costs and supports faster delivery promises. Consider:

Prioritize real-time WMS with robust API integrations, scalable pick/pack labor models, peak-season labor pools, automation for high-SKU environments, temperature control if needed, and clear inventory ownership and reporting to maintain visibility and compliance.

Model total landed cost by combining warehouse rent, labor, and handling with outbound freight to your customer base. Run zone-rate simulations for representative order profiles, include return flows and safety stock, and test carrier rate cards to compare centralized vs. multi-node strategies.