Evaluate highway and rail proximity, port/feeder access, last-mile carrier interchanges, dock capacity and throughput, cross-dock and transload capabilities, and regional transit times. Confirm carrier contracts and inbound/outbound lane frequency to ensure SLA alignment and predictable lead times.

Include storage (per pallet/cubic meter), pick-and-pack rates, inbound receiving and putaway, outbound freight and fuel surcharges, returns processing, customs/duties if cross-border, minimums, and technology fees. Model typical order profiles and peak-season uplift to compare True cost-to-serve across providers.

Prioritize flexible labor pools, dynamic slotting, kitting and assembly, returns and refurbishment lanes, temperature-controlled storage if required, pick-path optimization, and integration-ready WMS with real-time inventory and courier API connectivity to scale for peaks.

Set measurable SLAs for order accuracy, on-time shipment rate, dock-to-stock velocity, inventory accuracy (cycle count targets), lead-time variance, claims and damage rates, and clear penalties or credits for missed KPIs. Require visibility tools and regular performance reviews to enforce standards.