Prioritize these operational criteria: warehouse location relative to key markets and carriers, multimodal access (road/rail/air), WMS and API readiness, SLA history (picks, transit, returns), and available value‑added services like kitting, temperature control, and bonded storage.

Multimodal connectivity reduces transit times by enabling direct rail and air options and shorter drayage to North Sea ports. That lowers last‑mile fees, reduces inventory days on hand, and can cut total landed cost through optimized routing and consolidated shipments.

Expect cloud WMS with API integrations to ERP/marketplaces, real‑time inventory feeds, EDI or RESTful order routing, barcode/RFID support, and reporting dashboards. These capabilities reduce errors, accelerate fulfilment cycles, and enable automated replenishment.

Key considerations: clear SLA and penalty terms, transparent fee schedules (storage, handling, returns), customs and VAT handling responsibilities, insurance and liability limits, and contract flexibility for seasonal scale and exit terms.