Prioritize proximity to port and main highways, available cross-dock and transload capacity, and direct relationships with regional carriers. Also evaluate dock-door counts, yard space for trailer staging, and SLA reporting to ensure alignment with peak seasonal demand.

Request a cost-to-serve model that includes receiving, putaway, picking labor, packaging, storage tiers, and last-mile rates. Compare minimum billing, volume discounts, shrinkage policies, and slotting efficiency to forecast true per-order cost.

Look for certified cold-chain compartments with temperature monitoring, backup power, and documented HACCP or pharma handling procedures. For bonded needs, confirm customs-bonded status, secure segregation, and streamlined customs clearance processes.

Require on-time shipment rate, order accuracy, dock-to-stock time, inventory accuracy, and pick-and-pack productivity. Include penalty/bonus constructs in SLAs tied to measured KPIs and agreed audit frequencies to maintain performance.

Review seasonal labor plans, temp staffing partnerships, overflow capacity options (satellite sites or third-party networks), and the provider’s historical performance during peaks. Ask for a documented surge plan with clear cost implications and lead times.