Prioritize capacity (pallet positions, dock doors), WMS/WCS integration, pick-and-pack labor models, SLA guarantees, and returns handling. Also evaluate inbound/outbound slotting processes, peak-season scalability, and visibility tools for inventory and order tracking.

Proximity to main highways and regional carrier lanes shortens transit times and reduces freight spend. Faster access to national carriers and local last-mile partners supports tighter SLAs and zone-based shipping strategies that lower average shipping cost per order.

Verify dock-level accuracy, floor load capacity, racking type, hazardous-material handling, bonded or customs facilitation (if cross-border), security systems, and relevant certifications (ISO, HACCP, CE) tied to your product requirements.

Include receiving and putaway, storage per pallet/sku, pick-pack labor, packaging, outbound freight, returns processing, inventory carrying cost, cross-dock fees, and any value-added service costs. Factor in transit-time impact on safety stock and service-level penalties.