Prioritize site access to trunk roads, dock and racking capacity, warehouse management system (WMS) compatibility, temperature control if required, SLA guarantees for pick/pack/ship, and transparent EDI/API integration. Also evaluate local labor skill sets, security, and scalability for peak seasons.

Carrier access determines transit times, frequency and cost. Better intermodal links and feeder services reduce linehaul expense and dwell time, enable wave planning and consolidation, and lower landed cost per SKU through optimized routing and fewer touchpoints.

A hybrid approach: regional fulfillment centers for fast eCommerce picks, dedicated B2B bulk storage, and cross‑dock nodes for consolidation. Small, scalable warehouses with value‑added services (kitting, light assembly, returns processing) support omnichannel flexibility.

Model lane‑level costs (transport, handling, duties), inventory carrying vs stockout risk, and service levels. Use demand segmentation to allocate inventory across nodes, simulate scenarios for peak periods, and include real 3PL fee structures (receiving, storage, pick/pack, returns) to compute true cost‑to‑serve.

Assess local permitting, safety and environmental requirements, union or labor regulations, insurance and security standards, and any customs or regional documentation if shipments transit other jurisdictions. Verify 3PL training, contingency plans for weather or road closures, and SLA remedies.