Prioritize location relative to major highways and customer clusters, multimodal connectivity (road/rail), and carrier access. Assess facility capabilities (loading bays, dock density, racking, temperature control), labor availability, WMS integrations, and the provider’s ability to scale for peak seasons and returns processing.

Key cost drivers are storage (per pallet/sq m), receiving and putaway, pick & pack fees, outbound freight, value‑added services, and minimum activity charges. Compare proposals using a cost‑to‑serve model, include inbound/outbound freight estimates, and request scenario pricing for peak volumes to evaluate true TCO.

Expect a modern WMS with API/EDI connectivity to your order management and storefront platforms, real‑time inventory visibility, returns processing, kitting and light assembly, configurable SLA tiers, and reporting dashboards. Confirm support for carrier integrations and last‑mile routing used by your customer base.

Basic onboarding for standard SKU sets can take 4–8 weeks; complex integrations, custom kitting, or temperature‑controlled operations may require 8–16 weeks. To shorten time‑to‑live, provide clean SKU and order data, standardize labeling, preconfigure API/EDI credentials, run pilot orders, and establish clear SLA and test scenarios.