Evaluate transport links, facility capabilities, and technology integration to align service levels with customer expectations:

• Proximity to highways and port feeders and strength of last‑mile carrier coverage
• WMS/API capabilities, reporting, and inventory visibility
• Available storage types (ambient, cold, cross‑dock) and throughput capacity
• Labor availability, SLA history, and cost‑per‑order metrics

Define clear KPIs and reporting cadences that reflect channel requirements:

• On‑time shipment rate and order accuracy by channel
• Inventory accuracy, stock availability, and days of supply
• Average pick/pack cost, order cycle time, and returns processing time
• Damage rates, SLA adherence, and exception handling responsiveness

Common pricing includes storage (per pallet or sqm), pick/pack per order, receiving, outbound freight handling, and value‑added services. Primary drivers are throughput, SKU complexity, seasonality, and distance to final mile. Optimize via slotting, order consolidation, minimum thresholds, and negotiating transparent fuel/volume clauses.

Conduct a structured site and systems audit:

• On‑site inspection for racking, dock capacity, security, and safety compliance
• WMS demo, integration capabilities, and reporting samples
• Review of insurance, certifications, and client references
• Labor availability, peak staffing plans, and contingency/continuity procedures