Prioritize multimodal carrier connectivity (port and air), WMS integration and EDI capability, SLA guarantees, cross-dock and scalable storage, and trained fulfillment labor. Also evaluate throughput metrics, onboarding timelines, and value-added services like kitting and returns handling to match channel requirements.

<p(Location proximity to ports, airports, and main road arteries affects transit times and carrier access, which in turn drives shipping cost and service windows. Centralized locations reduce multi-stop routing, while edge sites can lower real estate costs but may increase last-mile spend. Model landed cost and delivery SLA trade-offs.)

Require real-time WMS access, inventory sync frequency, order accuracy rates, on-time shipping percentages, and KPIs for pick/pack cycle times. Include defined data exchange formats, reporting cadence, and penalties or remediation steps for missed SLAs to protect service quality.

Negotiate volume-based storage tiers, pick/pack pricing bands, consolidated inbound payments, billed weight rules, and review minimums and demurrage exposure. Consider longer-term rate reviews tied to throughput growth and service-level commitments to align incentives.