Prioritize carrier connectivity (parcel/LTL/FTL access), dock door density and staging yards, WMS/ERP integrations for visibility, cross‑dock and transload capabilities, SLA transparency, and proven peak‑season scalability. Confirm labor availability and local carrier performance history to align service expectations with cost.

Proximity to ports and interstate corridors shortens dray and linehaul time, expands available carrier lanes, and lowers last‑mile delivery zones and cost. Choosing a facility near intermodal terminals improves options for rail‑enabled inbound freight, while locations closer to urban centers reduce final‑mile spend and delivery windows.

Typical components include per‑pallet storage, cubic or tiered inventory charges, pick‑and‑pack per‑order or per‑line rates, receiving and inspection fees, monthly minimums, and accessorials (long‑carry, detention, special handling). Volume tiers and billing cadence materially change landed cost, so model expected SKUs and velocity with provider rates.

Require OTIF (on‑time in‑full), inventory accuracy, pick/pack accuracy, order cycle time, receiving turnaround, and chargeback allowance terms. Insist on regular reporting cadence, root‑cause analyses for SLA misses, and defined remedies or incentives tied to agreed KPIs to keep service aligned with business goals.