Assess core operational capabilities (pick-and-pack accuracy, throughput, dock doors), WMS/API integration, SLAs for lead time and returns, pricing models (storage, handling, inbound/outbound), scalability, and carrier connectivity. Validate labor availability and local cost structure against expected order profiles to model landed cost per order.

Road and rail access determine linehaul frequency and last-mile reach; strong carrier penetration reduces transit times and per-unit freight costs. Proximity to major demand centers shortens delivery windows, while intermodal options and cross-dock capacity improve consolidation opportunities and decrease inventory days on hand.

Require clear KPIs: order cycle time, pick accuracy, on-time dispatch rate, dock-to-stock time, and inventory accuracy. Confirm infrastructure: pallet positions, racking density, number of dock bays, cold-chain capability if needed, and reporting cadence. Ensure SLA penalties and regular performance reviews are contractually defined.

Start with a time-boxed pilot covering representative SKUs and order profiles, integrate WMS test environments, define SLAs and KPIs, run inbound/outbound cycles including returns, and analyze throughput and cost-performance. Use pilot data to negotiate scalable pricing, minimums, and contingency clauses before a full roll-out.