Prioritize WMS functionality and API depth, pick/pack accuracy metrics, SLA-backed cutoffs, inventory visibility, and inbound receiving throughput. Verify integrations with marketplaces and carriers, reporting cadence, and outage recovery plans to ensure continuous order flow and scale.

Key factors include proximity to major arterial roads and port/airport corridors, typical carrier density for last‑mile networks, average fill rates at local hubs, and typical congestion windows during peak hours—all influence driver dwell time and per‑parcel landed cost.

Top providers offer scalable slotting, temporary labor pools, flexible storage contracts, and outbound surge plans. Expect dynamic slot management, streamlined returns processing workflows, and clear SLAs for pick/pack throughput to handle peaks without long-term fixed costs.

Compare base storage rates, pick/pack and receiving fees, TLC or value‑added service charges, minimums, billing frequency, and chargeback policies. Also review accessorial fees, minimum notice for scale changes, SLA penalties, and technology/integration costs to model total landed fulfillment cost.