Prioritize these operational criteria: facility layout and racking systems; throughput metrics (orders/hour, pallet moves/day); IT compatibility (WMS/API connectivity); carrier and road access for regional lanes; labor availability and scalability. Also evaluate SLA terms for accuracy, lead time, and inventory reporting.

Compare fixed vs variable costs, storage density, pick accuracy rates, and transport lane pricing. Consider cross-docking, consolidation opportunities, and inventory days on hand. Conduct scenario modelling for peak season volumes and include duties, insurance, and last-mile premiums in total landed cost calculations.

Key factors: proximity to primary highways and border crossings, on-site loading docks and trailer parking, local carrier density, and available freight consolidation services. Also review seasonal weather resilience, contingency routing, and partnerships with regional carriers to maintain SLA compliance.

Require a WMS with real-time inventory visibility, API-driven order management, barcode/RFID scanning, and standardized EDI or API connectors for marketplaces and ERPs. Ask about reporting cadence, exception workflows, and support for kitting, returns processing, and split-shipments.