Focus on pick accuracy, order cycle time (dock‑to‑ship), on‑time outbound cutoffs, inventory days of supply and rate card transparency (picking, storage, inbound/outbound). Also validate system integrations (API, EDI), reporting cadence, and penalties or service credits tied to SLA performance.

Proximity to major motorways and intermodal terminals reduces overland transit hours and enables consolidation for feeder shipments to ports. This lowers variable freight spend and inventory buffers, improving fill rates and overall landed cost when network and frequency are aligned with demand profiles.

Negotiate clear rate cards (storage tiers, pick fees, special handling), volume discounts, minimums, fuel/peak surcharges, and invoicing cadence. Include performance KPIs with remedies, defined onboarding fees, and clauses for seasonal volume flexibility to avoid hidden cost escalation.

Confirm real‑time inventory sync (API/EDI), order acknowledgement and status updates, ASN support for inbound receipts, returns management workflows, and mapping for SKU and warehouse locations. Also review test cycles, data security, and change‑control procedures during go‑live.