Prioritize service-level performance (pick/pack speed, SLA adherence), carrier connectivity, real-time WMS integration, scalable racking and temperature control, and local labor skillsets. Also assess cost-to-serve metrics and transit-time reductions to key customer clusters.

Warehouses closer to major toll highways and south of Mexico City typically cut line-haul time and variable trucking costs. Reduced dwell and shorter runs lower last-mile spend and support faster lead times for omnichannel orders, improving on-time delivery and lowering inventory holding needs.

Require a modern WMS with API integrations, scalable pick-and-pack operations, returns processing, batch and serial tracking, climate control where needed, and cross-dock capacity. Verify peak-season labor plans and SLA penalties for missed ship windows.

Negotiate transparent pricing (storage, handling, kitting, receive fees), minimum volume commitments, indexation clauses, and exit/transition terms. Validate operating hours, liability limits, insurance coverage, and change-order pricing to control long-term cost-to-serve.