Prioritize facility layout and capacity, WMS/API integration, pick/pack throughput, SLA metrics, and carrier connectivity. Also assess value-added services (kitting, returns processing), security, and scalability to handle peak volume without materially increasing unit costs.

Good highway access and carrier density reduce pickup windows and shorter route miles, cutting transit time and fuel surcharges. Evaluate average carrier pickup frequency, typical linehaul rates to your major markets, and intermodal options to estimate total landed cost and delivery reliability.

Look for racked storage, adjustable slotting, reliable temperature-controlled zones, calibrated monitoring, dedicated cross-dock bays, and QA/inspection areas. Services like batch traceability, lot management, and on-site consolidation materially reduce handling error and improve throughput.

Expect combinations of storage per pallet/sku, pick/pack per order or line, receiving charges, and additives for value-added services and temperature control. Negotiate clear definitions for chargeable events, minimums, peak surcharges, and invoice cadence to control variability.

Typical onboarding runs 4–10 weeks depending on WMS integration and complexity. Key milestones: systems integration and test orders, slotting and layout planning, SOPs and SLA definitions, pilot shipments, and full cutover. Allow buffer for carrier setup and inventory reconciliation.