Evaluate WMS functionality and integration (API/EDI), typical throughput (orders/hour), slotting and kitting capabilities, temperature control if required, returns processing, SLA metrics (OTIF, accuracy), and proven seasonal labor scalability. Request performance KPIs and client references covering similar SKU velocity and order profiles.

Close access to ports and major highways reduces drayage and regional road transit time, enabling shorter delivery windows and lower freight spend. It also simplifies consolidation, reduces inventory-in-transit, and can lower buffer stock needs—directly improving service levels and total landed cost.

Common terms include pallet or cubic storage fees, per-pick and pack charges, receiving and handling fees, minimums, and seasonal labor surcharges. Negotiate volume tiers, short notice flex capacity, clear SLAs with penalties, and trial periods or performance-based rate adjustments to align costs with actual throughput and seasonality.

Require a system demo, sample API/EDI documentation, and read-only access to reporting dashboards. Ask for recent inventory accuracy audits, SLA performance data, and client references. Run a small-scale pilot or onboarding simulation to verify cycle counts, order accuracy, and timeliness.