Prioritize throughput capacity, dock and staging configuration, racking and storage types, WMS functionality and API availability, inventory accuracy rates, scalability for peak seasons, and measured KPIs (OTIF, pick accuracy, lead time). Consider returns handling, kitting, and pick-and-pack efficiency as essential services.

Location determines proximity to ports, intermodal terminals, and main road corridors, which directly impacts carrier frequency and transit times. Closer placement to import/export gateways reduces drayage and inventory-in-transit costs, while strategic inland sites lower last-mile expense and improve delivery windows.

Critical services include real-time inventory visibility, multi-channel order orchestration, returns processing, kitting, and fulfillment for split shipments. Technology must provide robust WMS/WCS, API or EDI integrations, reporting dashboards, and event notifications to support seamless omnichannel workflows.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order accuracy, on-time fulfillment, inventory accuracy, damage rates, and dispute resolution timelines. Include scalable pricing bands, volume commitments, minimum notice for peak periods, liability limits, and defined KPIs with financial remedies or service credits for sustained underperformance.