Prioritize throughput capacity, slotting and racking options, peak-season scalability, integrated WMS capabilities, and SLA-based shipping performance. Also evaluate carrier diversity and cost-to-serve analytics to ensure the operator can meet both B2C speed and B2B pallet-volume needs.

A Brownsweg location can lower long-haul dray and intermodal transfers when positioned near primary highways or port feeders. Savings depend on shipment density and lane balance—run zone-based freight modeling and landed-cost comparisons across candidate facilities to quantify benefits.

Request cloud-native WMS with API connectivity, real-time inventory visibility, barcode/RFID scanning support, carrier-rate shopping, and order routing for multi-channel sales. These features reduce errors, enable faster pick/pack, and support omnichannel return flows.

Assess clear height, dock-count and dock-leveler types, floor load capacity, yard and trailer parking, power availability for DC operations, and lease flexibility. Look for modular expansion potential and zoning that supports value-added services like kitting or light manufacturing.

Review documented surge plans, temporary labor sourcing, cross-docking options, and demonstrated experience handling international receipts and customs clearance coordination. Request historical KPIs for peak periods and contingency plans for carrier disruptions to validate operational resilience.