Prioritize measurable KPIs and infrastructure readiness: inventory accuracy, pick-and-pack throughput, zone-to-zone transit times, and scalability of labor. Also evaluate carrier relationships, cross-dock capabilities, IT integration (WMS/API), and visibility for order tracking to ensure alignment with service-level targets and cost-to-serve objectives.

Location influences transport legs and modal choices: coastal siting can enable short-sea consolidation to reduce inland mileage, while proximity to primary road corridors cuts overland transit time. Factor in local handling rates, dwell times, and feeder frequency to accurately model landed cost and SLA improvements.

Require configurable slotting, batch and single-unit pick workflows, returns processing, and omnichannel inventory orchestration. Confirm WMS features for order routing, real-time inventory visibility, carrier-agnostic rating, and scalable labor plans to handle seasonal peaks without sacrificing accuracy.

Assess customs clearance experience, documentation accuracy, bonded storage options, and local regulatory knowledge. Verify insurance coverage, incident response procedures, and performance history on cross-border shipments to mitigate detention, demurrage, and compliance-related cost exposure.