Prioritize WMS and OMS integrations, dock and staging capacity, pick/pack ergonomics, and the provider's ability to scale labor. Also evaluate carrier connectivity, returns processing workflows, temperature control if needed, and clear KPIs for SLA adherence and order accuracy.

Location near major highways and intermodal terminals shortens transit times and lowers carrier fees. Proximity to regional hubs improves last-mile efficiency and reduces freight spend, while sites farther from congested metros often deliver lower real estate and labor costs, improving cost-to-serve.

Look for integrated WMS with real-time inventory, scalable racking, automated picking support (sortation or voice picking), bonded or temperature-controlled zones when required, and IT that supports carrier rate shopping and multi-channel order routing.

Negotiate clear rate cards (storage, handling, kitting), minimum volume clauses, SLA metrics for order accuracy and lead times, penalties or credits for missed SLAs, and data access/API terms for visibility into inventory and shipping events.