Prioritize carrier connectivity (parcel and freight lanes), dock and staging capacity, peak throughput performance, returns processing, and integration capabilities (WMS and API). Confirm SLA terms, pick-and-pack accuracy rates, and contingency plans for seasonal spikes or port disruptions.

Cork often offers lower real estate and handling costs than Dublin while providing strong sea-access and reasonable road transit to Irish markets. Transit time to southern ports and short-sea routes is favorable; factor in potential additional road transit to northern and eastern Irish demand hubs when modeling total landed cost.

Verify kitting and assembly, batch/lot tracking, temperature-controlled storage, bonded customs handling, reverse logistics, and EDI/API integrations. Also assess reporting visibility, quality control processes, and capacity to scale during promotional peaks or product launches.

Confirm proximity to primary arterial roads, port and ferry terminals, and regional distribution centers. Inspect dock configurations, trailer marshalling yards, container handling equipment, and local carrier presence to minimize handoffs and reduce dwell time at transfer points.