Prioritize carrier connectivity, WMS and order-management integrations, SLA performance (order accuracy and lead time), scalability for peak periods, and value-added capabilities such as kitting, returns processing, and temperature control to match product needs.

A regional warehouse in Gandaki Zone can lower landed cost by reducing long-haul freight and enabling zone-skipping. It shortens last-mile distances to local markets, improving delivery windows and lowering parcel premiums—especially important for time-sensitive and high-frequency orders.

Verify dock configuration, racking and clear-height, power and utility reliability, fire and safety systems, bonded/customs handling (if applicable), insurance and certifications, plus contingency plans for seasonal weather disruptions.

Require a WMS with real-time inventory updates, API or EDI connectivity for order flows, dashboard reporting for KPIs, exceptions handling, and traceability for inbound receipts and outbound shipments to support omnichannel fulfilment strategies.

Compare total landed cost including inbound consolidation, inventory carrying cost, outbound parcel and freight rates, service-level impact on sales, and safety stock requirements. Run scenario models for SKU velocity and geographic demand to quantify trade-offs.