Compare on-time pick-and-pack rates, order-to-shipment lead times, and cost-per-order. Request transit-time matrices to principal delivery zones, carrier contract terms, and proof-of-performance for comparable SKU velocity. Inspect dock configuration, cut-off times, and labor shift coverage to confirm throughput under peak conditions.

Prioritize proximity to major arterials and distribution hubs, frequency of carrier pickups, and multimodal links (air/sea/road). 3PLs with negotiated carrier rates and direct integrations to last-mile networks reduce handoffs and variability in delivery ETAs.

Require SLAs for order accuracy, cut-off times, and dock-to-delivery windows. Verify WMS/TMS with API/EDI capabilities, near real-time inventory visibility, customizable reporting (OTD, OTIF, inventory days), and exception management workflows for claims and returns.

Use demand segmentation and cost-to-serve analysis to decide which SKUs remain in the urban node versus a centralized DC. Implement safety-stock rules, pool inventory for high-velocity items, and run network-scenario modeling to rebalance inventory for seasonal shifts and promotional peaks.