Prioritize order cycle time, on‑time delivery rate, inventory accuracy, slotting efficiency, and cost per pick. Evaluate site layout (dock count, clear height), technology (WMS, EDI/API), carrier access, and scalable labor during peak windows to ensure SLAs match your fulfillment strategy.

Closer port and intermodal access reduces drayage, minimizes handling steps, and shortens inland transit. That lowers inventory lead time and landed cost by reducing days‑in‑transit and handling margins; crucial when optimizing reorder points and safety stock for fast‑moving SKUs.

Assess carrier lane density, LTL and parcel consolidation options, dedicated vs. shared carrier contracts, and timed delivery capabilities. Check proof‑of‑delivery systems, reverse logistics handling, and regional peak capacity to ensure reliable store and customer deliveries.

Critical: WMS/OMS integration enables inventory visibility, multi‑channel order routing, and automation of replenishment. Confirm API/EDI connectivity, real‑time inventory feeds, and reporting dashboards so you can scale SKUs, apply dynamic routing, and maintain SLA transparency as volumes grow.