Prioritize WMS functionality and API capability, inventory accuracy metrics, order-to-shipment SLAs, and real-time reporting. Confirm dock-door capacity, picking productivity, and pick/pack error rates through data and site visits. Verify disaster recovery, labor pools, and carrier integrations to ensure consistent performance.

Focus on proximity to major highways, terminal and intermodal connectivity, dock density, and efficient yard operations. Facilities with racked storage, dedicated packing zones, returns processing, and direct carrier access reduce touches, speed throughput, and lower per-order delivery costs.

High carrier density enables competitive rates and multi-carrier routing, improving lead times and reducing disruption risk. Multimodal access (road, rail, near-port links) supports zone-skipping, consolidated LTL/FTL flows, and more predictable transit windows for both B2B and eCommerce customers.

Common models include storage per pallet, pick/pack per unit, throughput fees, and handling surcharges. Negotiate minimums, volume tiers, indexation, SLA credits, and pilot periods. Request transparent fee schedules and scenario-based quotes to align costs with expected order profiles and seasonality.