Prioritize location relative to your demand zones, carrier access (parcel and LTL), WMS and API integration, labor availability and shift flexibility, automation readiness, dock and cross‑dock capacity, SLAs for picking accuracy and transit times, and transparent rate structures that align with projected volumes.

Warehouse proximity to highways and carrier hubs reduces zone transit and last‑mile distance, lowering both days‑in‑transit and per‑parcel shipping costs. High carrier density enables multi-carrier routing to optimize rate and service level for different lanes and order profiles.

Require a robust WMS with real‑time inventory, API/EDI for order and shipment exchange, barcode/RFID scanning, configurable pick strategies, returns management, and reporting dashboards. Integration with your OMS and marketplaces is essential for accurate allocation and SLA compliance.

Compare base storage and pick/pack rates, inbound receiving and putaway fees, return processing costs, minimums, and any accessorials. Evaluate financial and operational SLAs (accuracy, on‑time shipments), penalty clauses, scalability options, and assumptions about volume forecasting to avoid hidden costs.