Evaluate location relative to major trunk routes and key customer markets, pick/pack throughput, WMS and carrier integrations, temperature control if needed, automation options, SLA guarantees, returns handling, and the provider's ability to scale labour and seasonal capacity without large price jumps.

Proximity to major roads and rail corridors reduces linehaul miles and supports bulk inbound by rail or truck, lowering per‑unit freight. Good carrier density enables competitive LTL pricing, more frequent pick‑ups, and better routing to reduce transit windows and last‑mile costs.

Prioritise WMS integration (real‑time inventory), slotting and labour model, automation for high‑velocity SKUs, temperature control if required, kitting and bundling capabilities, returns and reverse‑logistics workflows, and visible KPIs for order accuracy and lead times.

Model total landed cost including linehaul, last‑mile delivery, and inventory carrying costs; compare land, energy, and labour rates; factor cross‑border flows and customs if applicable; and simulate seasonality to determine whether inland cheaper storage offsets longer final‑mile distances to core demand centres.