Evaluate SLA metrics (order-to-ship, on-time delivery), inventory accuracy, WMS/API integration, throughput capacity, labor availability, storage types (ambient/refrigerated), cross-dock capability, and contingency planning. Confirm transparent billing, KPI reporting cadence, and audit rights to ensure measurable performance.

Proximity to major highways, border crossings, and multimodal nodes reduces miles and handling events, lowering freight cost and lead times. Carrier density impacts rate competitiveness and routing flexibility; limited options increase risk. Facilities near consolidation points improve last-mile efficiency.

Prioritize WMS compatibility with real-time integration, scalable racking and slotting, multi-temperature storage, automated picking or sortation where appropriate, returns processing, and clear throughput SLAs. Also assess headcount flexibility and peak-season scalability.

Negotiate explicit SLAs with remedies, transparent fee schedules and rate-change clauses, invoicing audit rights, inventory reconciliation cadence, API/data access, minimum capacity or lead-time guarantees, and defined reverse logistics workflows and chargeback rules for returns.