Prioritize connectivity to motorways and border crossings, warehouse layout flexibility (pick zones, mezzanine, cold storage), WMS and carrier integration capabilities, SLA performance (order lead time, accuracy), scalability for peaks, and transparent billing for storage, handling, and value‑added services.

Proximity to main highways and regional corridors reduces overland transit times and opens more carrier choices for LTL and full‑truckload services. Shorter routes to border points improve cross‑border reliability and can lower freight costs when paired with consolidated export programs.

Look for high‑ceiling racked space for pallet throughput, dedicated kitting and assembly areas, robust inbound QC and packing stations, integrated WMS with batch/lot tracking, and value‑added service experience such as light assembly, labelling, and custom packaging.

Negotiate transparent tariffs for storage density, pick/pack rates, handling for returns, minimums, and seasonal surcharges. Define SLA KPIs (OTIF, order accuracy), penalty clauses, termination notice, and ramp-up commitments to align capacity with demand and control total landed and fulfillment costs.