Prioritize proximity to main demand centers and carrier corridors, facility throughput and ceiling height, cross-dock vs. storage ratios, WMS/API integrations, and demonstrated experience with your channel (eCommerce, B2B, omnichannel). Quantify transit-time improvements and cost-to-serve before selecting.

Costs generally include storage (per pallet/cubic foot), inbound receiving and put-away, pick-pack-ship fees, kitting/assembly, returns processing, and outbound freight. Expect variable charges for seasonal labor, special handling, and technology integrations; model total landed cost per order to compare providers.

Standard service levels range from same-day pick for orders received before cut-off to 1-3 day regional transit depending on carrier networks. SLA performance depends on cut-off times, slotting efficiency, and carrier pickup frequency; confirm peak-season capacity and contingency plans with providers.

Establish a clear scope of work, define KPIs and chargeback terms, integrate systems (EDI/API) for order and inventory sync, run parallel inventory counts, and conduct pilot SKUs to validate processes. Agree on escalation paths and continuous improvement cadence prior to full conversion.