Prioritize network coverage, multimodal connectivity, WMS/TMS compatibility, SLA performance history, SKU-specific throughput, and transparent cost-to-serve reporting. Also confirm value-added services (kitting/returns), cross-dock capacity, labor flexibility, and carrier integrations for last-mile efficiency.

Proximity to the A1 motorway, nearby rail terminals, and short links to regional airports and ports reduce inland transit times and expand carrier choices for road, rail, and short-sea lanes. This improves routing flexibility for LTL, FTL and consolidated export movements.

Demand modular racking, cross-dock bays, batch/zone picking, barcode/RFID scanning and a robust WMS with API connectivity to marketplaces and carriers. Ensure labor-management, KPI dashboards, order orchestration and scalable staffing models to handle peaks reliably.

Model rent and labor rates, transport spend, and service-level impact on delivery time. Use SKU velocity, order profiles and carrier rates to calculate total landed cost (transport + handling + holding). Factor in access to supplier networks—Modena can offer lower fixed costs with comparable regional reach.