Prioritize location relative to customer demand, dock capacity and throughput, WMS/API integrations, SLA performance history, returns handling, and seasonal capacity flexibility. Verify cycle count accuracy, onboarding timelines, and the provider's experience across eCommerce and wholesale channels.

Proximity to interstates, rail terminals, and ports reduces TL/LTL distances and parcel zone creep, lowering freight and transit time. Dense carrier networks in a region increase bidding leverage and create more reliable transit windows, improving delivery speed and reducing uplift costs.

Negotiate transparent per-pallet storage tiers, per-order pick/pack rates, clear accessorial fees, minimum volume commitments, and surge capacity clauses. Include SLA definitions, chargeback rules, and review/reset windows to contain variable spend during peaks.

Require a modern WMS with API/EDI connectivity, real-time inventory feeds, barcode/RFID support, event notifications, and reporting dashboards. Confirm capabilities for channel orchestration, batch processing, and audit trails to support omnichannel order routing and reconciliation.

Use demand mapping and transit-time modeling to position inventory near primary customer clusters. Balance rent and labor availability against transit savings, evaluate proximity to intermodal nodes, and confirm local labor pool capacity for peak hiring needs and shift flexibility.