Prioritize measurable service levels: pick/pack accuracy, order cycle time, and dock-to-delivery transit times. Verify WMS integration, SKU-handling limits, returns processing, and capacity for seasonal peaks. Evaluate carrier relationships, SLA penalties, and real-world KPIs from existing clients before contracting.

Pricing mixes storage (per pallet or per SKU), pick/pack fees, inbound/outbound handling, and accessorials. Negotiate minimums, volume tiers, bundled services (kitting, returns), billing frequency, and performance-based credits. Ask for detailed rate cards and scenario pricing for peak seasons to compare true landed cost.

Focus on scheduled carrier pickup windows, transit-time consistency, and consolidation options for pallet and LTL shipments. Confirm proximity to port/airport for export flows, availability of regional freight lanes, and customs-clearance support to reduce dwell times and shrink-to-shipment variability.

Require a modern WMS with barcode scanning, real-time inventory APIs/EDI, cycle-count procedures, and configurable dashboards showing stock levels, fill rates, and exceptions. Ensure automated alerts, integrated order routing, and documented reconciliation processes to maintain SLA transparency and auditability.