Prioritize location relative to customer and carrier networks, warehouse layout (dock doors, racking, staging), WMS and API integration, SLA metrics (OTIF, order accuracy), labor skill and availability, value-added services (kitting, QC), security/compliance, and scalability for peak demand.

Model total landed cost including inbound transport, storage (inventory carrying), pick-and-pack, outbound freight, returns processing, and overhead. Layer in service impacts: lead time reduction, order accuracy, and delivery SLAs. Run scenario analyses for order mix, parcel vs pallet shipments, and seasonality.

Define clear SLAs and KPIs, detailed SOPs, data integration timelines (WMS/API), pilot phases, acceptance tests, insurance and liability clauses, dispute/penalty terms, and joint go-live checklists. Include regular review cadences and escalation paths to resolve early issues.