Focus on measurable operational metrics: WMS/OMS integration and API access, dock and throughput capacity, SLA definitions for picking and shipping, returns and reverse logistics capability, geographic reach for last‑mile, and proven carrier partnerships. Also verify insurance, customs handling, and seasonal labor flexibility.

Coastal placement reduces ocean‑feed and intermodal drayage time for nearby ports and can lower landed costs through consolidation. Expect improved delivery times for regional coastal customers, but assess trade‑offs: inland transit to major urban centers may add trucking time compared with central distribution nodes.

Require robust WMS with real‑time inventory, API/EDI connectivity to your OMS and carriers, order visibility dashboards, exception alerts, and batch reporting for cost and performance metrics. Confirm ability to support barcode scanning, cycle counts, and standardized KPI exports for auditing.

Run a controlled pilot: move a representative SKU set, define KPIs (OTD, pick accuracy, cycle time, chargebacks), run parallel fulfillment for a limited period, evaluate reporting and issue resolution, and perform an operational audit. Use pilot results to negotiate SLA terms and ramp schedules.