Focus on facility attributes (clear height, dock doors, racking), technology (WMS/TMS/API integration), labor skill and shift patterns, cold chain and value-added services, SLA and reporting transparency, and proximity to key carriers and trade corridors. Benchmark carriers, run site visits, and request sample KPIs for comparable clients.

Closer proximity shortens transit times, reduces fuel and line-haul costs, and improves last-mile reliability. It also enables mixed-modal solutions and faster cross-docking. Being near economic or industrial zones can streamline customs clearance and inbound consolidation, lowering landed cost and lead-time variability.

Key components are storage (per-pallet or volumetric), labor (picking and packing rates), inbound/outbound handling fees, transportation and fuel, and returns processing. Include value-added fees (kitting, quality checks) and minimums. Benchmark by SKU profile, seasonality, and projected pick rates to model total landed fulfillment cost.

Request historical throughput and peak season performance metrics, SLA adherence reports, and redundancy plans. Assess WMS flexibility, surge labor pools, temporary racking or expanded dock plans, and integration test capabilities with your OMS. Ask for client references and run a short pilot to validate processes and reporting.