Prioritize carrier connectivity, throughput capacity, inventory visibility (WMS compatibility), and declared SLAs for pick/pack and cut‑off times. Evaluate bonded/customs handling if importing, returns processing capabilities, and the provider's experience with omnichannel order profiles to ensure alignment with your service and cost targets.

Direct motorway access and rail links reduce dray distances and modal switching costs, shortening transit times to nearby markets and ports. This can lower landed cost through reduced fuel and carrier surcharges, and improves schedule reliability—critical for inventory planning and reducing safety stock for fast‑moving SKUs.

Common services include cross‑dock, zone and wave picking, kitting and light assembly, returns and refurbishment, bonded storage, and integrated parcel consolidation. Verify WMS integrations, SLA granularity, and surge capacity to support peak seasons and promotional activity.

Negotiate clear SLAs (OTD, order accuracy, dock-to-stock), scalable rate tables for volume tiers, minimum and maximum volume clauses, inventory reconciliation cadence, liability and insurance terms, and defined dispute resolution and termination provisions to maintain cost predictability and service accountability.