Prioritize facility layout (dock configuration, mezzanine vs. pallet racking), warehouse management system (WMS) compatibility, carrier integrations, SLA transparency, and value‑add capabilities like pick‑pack, returns processing, and kitting. Also assess scalability, security, insurance, and local labor availability to match peak demand cycles.

Proximity to major arterial roads shortens pickup and delivery windows, reduces empty miles, and enables tighter carrier schedules. Better road connectivity supports consolidated loads, reduces fuel and labor costs, and improves on-time delivery — critical for omnichannel promise times and cost-to-serve calculations.

Model landed cost per unit including storage density (cost per pallet position), throughput charges (pick/pack), inbound/outbound freight handling, cross-dock fees, packaging/returns costs, and any bonded or temperature-controlled surcharges. Include setup, minimums, and potential peak-season premiums to compare total cost-to-serve.

Conduct site visits to verify infrastructure and safety compliance, review WMS reports and integration APIs, check carrier performance and references, validate security and insurance coverage, and run a short pilot with KPIs for order accuracy, cycle time, and claims handling before full-scale transition.