Evaluate pick accuracy, inventory accuracy, order cycle time (receive-to-ship), on-time-in-full (OTIF), average throughput per hour, and return processing time. Also review onboarding timelines, exception-handling protocols, audit cadence, and penalty/credit terms tied to SLA breaches.

Closer proximity reduces drayage, customs dwell time, and inventory-in-transit days, lowering landed cost and improving delivery predictability. It also enables more frequent, smaller replenishment cycles and better zone-skipping economics for eCommerce carriers.

Prioritize modern WMS with API/EDI, real-time inventory visibility, scalable racking and automation options, temperature control if needed, secure bonded areas, returns and reverse-logistics capabilities, and proven carrier integrations for multi-channel shipping.

Compare storage (per pallet/ft²), receiving and putaway, pick-and-pack by piece or order, outbound transportation, kitting/assembly, and accessorials (liftgate, residential, returns). Check billing cadence, minimums, inventory reconciliation fees, and chargebacks for noncompliance.