Prioritize throughput capacity, SLA performance, slotting and pick metrics, cross‑dock capability, and scalability for peak volumes. Validate WMS/OMS integration, reporting cadence, kitting and value‑add service availability, security and compliance, and SLAs for returns processing to ensure alignment with channel-specific service levels.

Closer proximity reduces drayage and carrier access charges, lowers zone-based parcel costs, and shortens lead times for replenishment. Intermodal connectivity enables mode optimization and consolidation, which improves freight predictability and reduces landed cost, particularly for time‑sensitive eCommerce lanes and B2B replenishment.

Evaluate hourly labor rates and workforce availability, warehouse rent and property taxes, utility and local incentive programs, equipment leasing, and peak season labor premiums. Include handling time per SKU, inventory carrying cost, and transportation zone impacts to model true cost‑to‑serve for each fulfillment channel.

Require a modern WMS with real‑time inventory, API/EDI connectivity to OMS and marketplaces, scan-based receiving and picking, exception workflows, reporting dashboards, and support for electronic proof of delivery. Integration readiness and data governance are critical to minimize reconciliation overhead and speed decision cycles.

Typical onboarding ranges from 6 to 12 weeks depending on complexity. Key milestones include site assessment and SOP development, system integration and testing, inventory ingestion and cycle counts, staff training and dry runs, followed by phased go‑live and KPI stabilization across fulfillment lanes.