Prioritize order cycle time, dock-to-ship throughput, on-time pick accuracy, inventory accuracy rates, and scalability of labor during peaks. Also evaluate WMS compatibility, real-time reporting, and SLAs for returns and damages to ensure alignment with your service-level targets.

Transportation costs are driven by road quality, distance to primary carrier hubs, and frequency of scheduled pickups. A warehouse closer to main corridors reduces linehaul and last-mile charges, cutting landed cost and shortening delivery windows for both B2B and eCommerce shipments.

Look for segregated returns processing areas, multi-door dock configuration, scalable pick-and-pack zones, kitting and light assembly space, and an integrated WMS that supports omnichannel order routing, realtime inventory visibility, and automated returns workflows.

Include clear SLAs for accuracy and lead times, liability and insurance terms, termination and volume ramp clauses, data access requirements, and compliance obligations for customs and local regulations. Specify KPIs, penalties, and dispute resolution processes.

Assess a provider's labor pool flexibility, temporary storage capacity, overtime policies, established peak staffing plans, cross-docking options, and technology that supports rapid SKU onboarding and surge order routing without compromising accuracy.