Key metrics: usable cubic and pallet positions, racking type (selective vs. high‑bay), dock count and throughput, average inbound/outbound turnaround, WMS capabilities, SLA terms for picking and shipping, labor skillset and shift patterns, and on‑site value‑added service capacity. Compare measured KPIs to your order profile and peak season forecasts.

Proximity to major highways and regional rail reduces drayage and transit days, lowering variable transport cost. Local availability of LTL, full‑truckload and parcel carriers gives rate leverage and routing flexibility. Factor in customs handling times, cross‑border tolls, and typical carrier lanes when modeling landed cost and SLAs.

Essential services include omnichannel order orchestration, parcel rate shopping, returns processing, kitting/assembly and batch pick strategies. Technology essentials: robust WMS with API/EDI connectivity, real‑time inventory visibility, carrier integrations, and reporting dashboards to support fulfillment KPIs and exception management.

Perform a landed‑cost analysis that includes occupancy, labor rates, inbound/outbound transport, and inventory carrying costs. Model unit economics across volume tiers and seasonal peaks. Cheaper rent can be offset by higher transit or limited carrier options; quantify total delivered cost and service impact before committing.

Confirm documented RMA processes, inspection and disposition workflows, reverse pick/putaway capacity, and WMS support for returns tagging and reintegration. Service expectations should include defined SLAs for returns processing, quarantine handling, refurbishment options, and accurate reporting on returns KPIs.