Prioritize on-time pick/pack rates, order accuracy, dock-to-delivery transit days, and the provider’s WMS/ERP integration capabilities. Also evaluate dimensional pricing practices, minimum order handling fees, and capacity for peak volume spikes to model true cost-to-serve.

Closer proximity to highways, intermodal yards, and carrier hubs reduces linehaul and last-mile mileage, shortens replenishment lead times, and can lower per-shipment freight cost. It also enables more reliable cutoffs for same- or next-day carrier pickups.

Assess dock and trailer capacity, clear height, racking density, forklift fleet, cold-chain certifications, and on-site security. Confirm proximity to customs brokers and intermodal services for import/export flows to avoid unexpected handling delays.

Negotiate clear SLAs for order lead times and accuracy, chargeback and dispute resolution terms, inventory reconciliation cadence, liability limits, and transparent fee schedules for storage, pick/pack, and value-added services to prevent cost drift.