Evaluate transit-time maps to key customer zones, multimodal carrier access (road, rail, short-sea), warehouse layout and dock capacity, labor availability and shift patterns, automation level, customs handling capability, and the provider's IT for WMS/TMS integration. These factors drive delivery performance and cost-to-serve.

Proximity to motorways, regional rail, and ports reduces transit windows to Baltic and Northern European markets, improving fulfillment lead times and last-mile options. Strong carrier density enables better pickup frequency, cost negotiation, and faster returns processing—critical for omnichannel SLA adherence.

Key cost drivers include site rent and utilities, labor and handling rates, racking and storage density, pick-and-pack complexity, inbound/outbound transport distances, customs and cross-border fees, seasonal surcharges, and required service levels (SLA penalties, expedited handling).

Request KPIs such as OTIF, order lead time, pick accuracy, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock time, and average dwell. Ask for SLA templates, capacity lead-time commitments, tech integration specifics (WMS/API), audit reports, and references from similar-scale customers to validate claims.