Prioritize on-time fulfillment rate, inventory accuracy, order cycle time, pick-and-pack productivity (lines per hour), and scalability for peak windows. Also evaluate technology compatibility (WMS/API), SLA penalties, inbound cutoffs, and exception-management processes to align performance to customer expectations.

Location drives trunk and last-mile distance: proximity to major highways and carrier hubs reduces transit miles and freight spend. Access to multiple carriers and cross-dock nodes shortens lead times and provides routing flexibility that lowers detention and expedite costs, improving total cost-to-serve.

Require real-time inventory sync via API or robust EDI, an auditable WMS with cycle-count reporting, order orchestration that supports split-fulfillment, and visibility tools for tracking and exception alerts. Integration maturity reduces manual work and improves accuracy across channels.

Seek defined SLA metrics with service credits, clear scope for value-added services, inventory custody and shrinkage clauses, transition timelines with parallel operations, and defined peak-season capacity commitments. Include KPIs, audit rights, and an exit plan to protect continuity.