Evaluate based on throughput metrics (picks per hour), SLA guarantees for cut-off and transit, billing transparency (storage, receiving, returns), and technology integrations (WMS, TMS, API). Compare carrier mix and nearby transit zones to estimate landed cost and delivery windows for your top SKUs.

Prioritize facilities with direct port/rail access, ample dock doors, cross-dock capacity, and secure staging areas. Confirm local carrier partnerships and intermodal options to maintain flexible routing and avoid single-carrier dependencies that can inflate costs or increase delays.

Adopt a distributed inventory model in key transshipment nodes to shorten lead times, combine slower-moving SKUs centrally with regional buffer stock for high-turn items, and negotiate scalable storage rates with 3PLs to align costs with seasonal demand patterns.

Require advanced WMS functionality for batch kitting and returns processing, dedicated reverse-logistics workflows, configurable SLA tiers for same-day or next-day fulfillment, and real-time inventory visibility to synchronize online and in-store channels.