Evaluate carrier access, SKU velocity handling, tech integrations (WMS + OMS), and facility footprint. Prioritize cross-dock capacity for B2B, pick-and-pack efficiency for eCommerce, and SLAs for returns. Confirm labor availability and peak-season scalability to avoid service degradation.

Warehousing in this region often lowers property and operating costs versus border cities, which can reduce landed costs. Transit times to major border gateways remain competitive—typically within a single driving day to principal crossings—making it viable for near-shore replenishment strategies.

Confirm bonded or customs-compliant handling if cross-border activity is planned, dock and staging capacity, temperature-controlled storage options, real-time WMS integrations, and measured KPIs for accuracy, on-time shipment, and inventory visibility.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, cut-off and same-day processing, chargebacks, and peak-season commitments. Include clauses for scalability, inventory reconciliation cadence, audit access, and contingency routing to alternative carriers or facilities.