Prioritize proximity to major highways and rail links, WMS and integration capabilities, SKU handling (pick/pack density), cross‑dock vs long‑term storage capacity, labor availability and labor cost, and carrier density for outbound lanes. Review SLAs for accuracy and lead time, plus scalability for seasonal peaks.

Asansol benefits from NH19 and the Howrah–Delhi rail corridor, enabling shorter overland transit to Kolkata and neighboring states. Rail access supports consolidated, lower‑cost shipments to ports and long‑haul lanes, while road connectivity offers fast regional delivery—together reducing variability and carrier cost compared with coastal city dispatch.

Verify WMS maturity and API integrations, inventory accuracy rates, barcode/scan processes, real‑time reporting, SLA enforcement, security and insurance, temperature control if needed, and material handling equipment. Confirm experience with your product profiles, returns handling and value‑added services.

Negotiate transparent unitized pricing (storage, receiving, pick/pack, outbound), clear minimums, and charges for seasonality. Include measurable SLAs (OTD, accuracy), penalties or credits, audit and reporting rights, defined liability and inventory reconciliation cadence, and renewal/exit terms to limit unexpected cost exposure.