Prioritize on-time delivery, order accuracy, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock and pick lead times, return processing SLA, and claims resolution time. Also assess scalability metrics (peak throughput), WMS/API uptime, and carrier mix coverage to validate cost-to-serve under expected volumes.

Closer proximity shortens road and rail haul distances, reduces fuel and tolls, and improves carrier scheduling flexibility; it also lowers transit risk and enables more LTL and intermodal options, which together reduce landed cost and improve delivery predictability.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory, carrier API integrations, scalable pick-and-pack space, cross-dock capacity, and options for automation or temporary labor ramp-up. Temperature-controlled areas and secure bonded facilities are important for specific SKU types.

Negotiate clear SLA definitions with financial remedies, transparent cost-to-serve line items (storage, handling, returns), volume-tier pricing, notice periods for capacity changes, liability limits, and data access/API requirements to ensure visibility and control.