Evaluate throughput and peak capacity, SLA performance (order lead time, pick-pack accuracy), WMS integration (real-time inventory, EDI/APIs), reporting cadence, and scalability. Require site tours, sample KPI reports, and a clear onboarding roadmap for integration and testing to validate operational fit.

Assess trunk and feeder road reliability, seasonal closure mitigation, local carrier density, LTL/TL consolidation options, and last-mile courier coverage. Confirm pickup cadence, cut-off times, and carrier SLAs to model transit times and delivery windows accurately.

Prioritize facilities with temperature-controlled zones, racked storage, dedicated loading docks, cross-dock lanes, and validated cold-chain protocols. Check inventory traceability, QA sampling areas, and disaster recovery plans to protect perishable and high-value SKUs.

Use inventory segmentation and demand forecasting to place fast movers closer to demand, consolidate inbound shipments to reduce freight per unit, negotiate multi-carrier contracts, and apply hub-and-spoke replenishment. Monitor velocity and adjust safety stock to balance service and carrying cost.