Evaluate location-to-port distance, road access to primary markets, warehouse layout (racking, clear height), cold chain availability, WMS/API integrations, pick-and-pack throughput, SLA and reporting, security and insurance, workforce availability, and energy reliability. Prioritize metrics that align with SKU velocity and order-profile.

Shorter drayage and reduced inland mileage lower carriage and handling costs and shorten lead times. Local consolidation reduces demurrage exposure and enables faster cross-docking to domestic trucking pools, improving reliability for time-sensitive eCommerce and export shipments.

Look for a proven WMS with order routing and API connectivity, zone and batch picking, inventory visibility, barcoding and cycle-count capabilities, temperature-controlled storage where needed, secure racking with adequate clear height, and scalable labor models to handle peak volumes.

Key cost drivers include monthly storage per pallet or cubic meter, pick-and-pack unit costs, inbound/outbound handling fees, minimums and slotting charges, labor overtime during peaks, energy and cold-chain premiums, transportation and demurrage risk, and returns processing fees.