Prioritize transit time to primary customer zones, SLA adherence, inventory visibility (real-time WMS integration), capacity scalability for seasonality, and value-added capabilities (kitting, returns). Also validate carrier mix and docking/handling equipment to match your SKU profile and packaging requirements.

Model landed cost across variables: inbound freight, duty/customs handling, warehousing (space, handling, IT), outbound parcel or LTL rates, and inventory carrying costs. Run scenario analyses for volume tiers and transit windows to compare total cost versus current fulfillment points.

Inspect dock configuration and number of bays, ceiling height and racking compatibility, forklift and automation assets, yard capacity for trailers, local carrier presence, and on-site IT/WMS integration readiness. Verify proximity to highways, rail spurs, and intermodal terminals.

Negotiate KPIs for order accuracy, on-time dispatch, receiving turnaround, inventory accuracy, claims resolution, and tech uptime. Include volume-based rate tiers, chargeback triggers, SLAs for peak periods, and clear data exchange formats (EDI/API) for performance monitoring.

Ask about returns processing workflows, inspection and disposition rates, refurbishment or repackaging capabilities, and time-to-restock metrics. Validate systems for returns authorization, lot tracking, and reporting to quantify recovery rates and cost per return.