Assess facility location relative to ports and major roads, carrier connectivity and pallet network access, warehouse capabilities (cold storage, bulk, pick-and-pack), labor skillsets and peak-season scalability, WMS/API integration, SLA performance metrics, and a detailed cost-to-serve analysis including inbound handling and returns.

Proximity to short-sea ferry links and regional ports reduces lead times on coastal lanes; nearby cross-border routes to Northern Ireland enable efficient cross-trade. Carrier density affects last-mile rates and consolidation options; evaluate scheduled sailings, weekly pallet services and trunking frequencies to optimize transit and freight cost.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory, API/EDI order connectivity, order routing and reprioritization logic, barcode scanning and RF picking, returns management, and configurable reporting. Ask for SLA monitoring, dashboard access and secure data exchange for forecasting and reconciliation.

Multi-client sites lower fixed costs and improve utilization but can limit customization; dedicated facilities provide control over layout, SOPs and branding at higher cost. Compare pick/pack pricing, minimums, lead times, seasonal flexibility and the 3PL's ability to meet target SLAs before deciding.