Focus on outbound lane density, same/next-day reach maps, and regional parcel volume that drive negotiated carrier rates. Compare pick-and-pack unit costs, minimums, and order cut-off times. Verify WMS integrations and real transit-time tests for key ZIP clusters to ensure SLAs match customer promises.

Require robust WMS with ASN/EDI support, multi-tenant slotting, batch picking, and kitting capabilities. Confirm racking types, ceiling heights, cold-storage availability if needed, and security/compliance certifications. Ask for throughput metrics and reference workflows for similar SKU complexity.

Higher outbound density improves parcel and LTL rate cards, enables zone-skipping, and reduces last-mile cost per parcel. Strong carrier connectivity also shortens lead times for replenishment and supports consistent SLA performance across channels, benefiting both B2B and direct-to-consumer flows.

Negotiate transparent line-item pricing (receiving, storage, pick/pack, returns), indexation caps on rate increases, clear SLA credits, minimum volume commitments, onboarding and deconsolidation fees, and reasonable contract terms for scale-up/scale-down without punitive penalties.