Prioritize accuracy (order fill and SKU accuracy), lead times (inbound docking to outbound shipping), on-time shipping percentage, damage rates, and throughput (lines per hour). Also review slotting efficiency, returns processing times, and availability of value-added services such as kitting and labeling to match your fulfillment model.

Proximity to ports and regional air gateways reduces international freight drayage and transload steps, lowering landed cost and transit time. Local road connectivity affects last-mile costs—shorter dray distances and access to primary trucking corridors improve delivery windows and reduce freight spend.

Look for racked storage with 20–24 ft clear heights, dedicated eCommerce picking zones, segregated returns areas, cross-dock capability, and reliable power/IT connectivity. Cold chain spaces or temperature-controlled rooms are critical if you handle food or pharma products.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, cut-off times, and lead times; transparent billing with line-item reporting; inventory reconciliation cadence; liability and insurance terms for loss/damage; and scalable capacity clauses for peak season surges.