Focus on terminal and port proximity, intermodal access, highway connectivity for last-mile efficiency, facility clear heights and racking to suit SKU dimensions, and WMS/EDI integrations for real-time inventory and carrier booking. Prioritize providers with proven carrier relationships and scalable labor models that align with your peak seasons.

Expect monthly storage, pick-and-pack, receiving, and value-added service fees. Negotiate minimums, slotting and long-term storage surcharges, inbound handling, and fuel/transport passthroughs. Build total landed cost models including transit times to primary markets and typical chargebacks for returns handling.

Require a modern WMS with API or EDI connectivity to your OMS and carriers, real-time inventory feeds, order routing rules for split shipments, and reporting for SLA performance. Verify support for barcode scanning, lot/serial tracking, and returns management to maintain accuracy across channels.

Request KPIs for order accuracy, on-time shipment, dock-to-ship cycle time, inventory accuracy, and claims rates. Include clear SLA remedies, defined cut-off times for same-day processing, and documented contingency plans for labor or regional disruptions to protect service continuity.