Prioritize carrier connectivity and transit lanes, proximity to key customer clusters, and facility capabilities such as cross-dock, temperature control, and automation. Evaluate WMS integration, SLA performance (order accuracy, on-time shipments), labor availability, and scalability for peak seasons to ensure alignment with service expectations and cost-to-serve goals.

Require demonstrations of WMS functionality, API/EDI integrations with your OMS, and real-time inventory visibility. Request KPI dashboards, regular reporting cadence, and data extract samples. Verify support for barcode/RFID, exception workflows, and audit trails to ensure accurate inventory control and actionable performance metrics.

Expect combinations of storage-per-pallet or per-cubic-foot fees, pick/pack unit charges, inbound/outbound handling, and value-added service rates. Negotiate minimums, volume tiers, indexation clauses, liability limits, and clear SLAs with penalties. Clarify peak-season capacity commitments, onboarding timelines, and termination provisions to manage risk and cost predictability.

Map customer demand density and carrier lanes to evaluate single DC versus multi-node footprints. Consider transit time contours, cross-dock options, and proximity to consolidation centers. Build flexibility with scalable space, seasonal labor pools, and dynamic slotting to handle volume spikes while maintaining inventory turns and service targets.