Assess lane‑specific transit matrices from candidate sites to primary customer ZIPs, verify direct relationships with parcel carriers, LTL networks and rail providers, and confirm airport and port drayage options. Request historical lead‑time data, carrier scorecards, and examples of seasonality handling to validate expected delivery performance and cost tradeoffs.

Require a modern WMS with real‑time inventory, API/EDI integrations for order flow, and support for carrier manifesting. Evaluate automation for pick/pack (sortation, conveyors), barcode/RFID scanning, returns processing, and reporting dashboards. Confirm SLA monitoring, exception workflows, and IT support for custom integrations.

Negotiate transparent rate cards for storage density, receiving, pick/pack, and accessorials; clarify minimums, billing cadence, inbound appointment rules, and chargeback policies. Build volume tiers, seasonal flex terms, and performance KPIs into the contract, and include exit or transition clauses to limit long‑term operational exposure.