Prioritize WMS compatibility and integration, order accuracy and SLA history, facility layout and throughput capacity, labor skill levels and peak scalability, insurance and compliance, and the provider's experience with eCommerce and B2B flows. Request KPIs and sample SLAs to compare performance benchmarks before contracting.

Proximity to coastal gateways and national road corridors reduces transit windows and carrier handoffs, which lowers handling costs and variability. Evaluate access to multiple carriers, frequency of regional services, and modal options (road, coastal) — these determine route optimization, inventory positioning, and predictable delivery SLAs.

Compare fixed versus variable storage rates, pick/pack fees, receiving and putaway charges, minimum monthly fees, inbound/outbound handling, value‑added services pricing, and fuel/remote-location surcharges. Model total landed cost per order and run sensitivity for peak volumes to reveal breakpoints between providers.

Conduct site visits, request operational KPIs and third‑party audits, review insurance and compliance documentation, ask for client references and test shipments, and validate integration through sandbox WMS/API testing. Define acceptance criteria and pilot periods in the contract to mitigate onboarding risk.