Prioritise measurable KPIs: order accuracy, on-time shipment rate, pick/pack cycle times, inventory accuracy and dock-to-despatch lead times. Verify WMS capabilities, API integrations for real-time inventory, peak labour scalability and documented SLA remedies to ensure alignment with sales channels and customer expectations.

Warehousing in Kerikeri shortens last-mile delivery distances across Northland and the Bay of Islands, reducing local shipping costs and transit times. For national distribution, plan feeder consolidation to major hubs; a multi-node network with Kerikeri as a regional node optimises both regional service levels and total transport spend.

Expect basic heavy vehicle access, multiple dock doors, racked storage, secure fast-pick zones and flexible labour pools. Leading providers offer integrated courier connections to national networks, peak labour agreements, temporary storage expansion options and clear contingency plans for seasonal surges.

Negotiate transparent storage tiers, pick/pack pricing, minimums, receiving fees and clear definitions for chargeable events. Set KPIs for inventory accuracy, SLA penalties for late or incorrect orders, regular reporting cadence, audit rights and defined onboarding costs to minimise hidden fees and control overall cost-to-serve.