Require order accuracy, on-time-in-full (OTIF), inventory accuracy, average order cycle time, dock-to-stock speed, and claims frequency. Establish baseline measurement periods, reporting cadence, and acceptable thresholds in the SLA so you can monitor improvements and enforce remedies if KPIs slip.

Proximity to highways, rail yards, and port terminals reduces linehaul distances and enables zone-skipping strategies that lower parcel costs. Dense carrier networks improve pickup frequency and routing flexibility, which shortens transit windows and reduces expedited or last-mile surcharges.

Negotiate clear SLAs for accuracy and lead times, transparent unit pricing and bill-back rules, minimums and termination clauses, inventory ownership and insurance terms, claims procedures, and a defined change-order process to manage seasonal or SKU-mix shifts.

Assess WMS capabilities, API/EDI support for real-time inventory and order sync, exception reporting, audit trails, and integration proof-points with your storefront or ERP. Validate data latency, role-based access, and testing timelines to ensure smooth cutover and accurate demand signals.

Model customer density, transit time targets, zone-based shipping costs, labor availability, real estate rates, tax and incentive programs, and carrier service footprints. Prioritize sites that reduce cost-to-serve while maintaining delivery promises and scalability for peak seasons.