Evaluate infrastructure (racking, freezer availability), SKU handling and pick/pack throughput, IT integrations (WMS and API connectivity), SLAs for order cutoff and transit, and carrier network coverage. Consider seasonal volume flexibility and experience with returns, kitting, and island or last-mile deliveries.

Short-sea routes and highway links reduce coastal transit versus routing through central hubs. Use multimodal routing to optimize costs and speed: road for regional consolidation, feeder vessels for islands, and air for urgent B2B shipments. Model lead-time windows and inventory buffers accordingly.

Compare fixed storage rates, variable pick/pack costs, pallet handling, temperature-controlled premiums, inbound receiving fees, and cross-docking charges. Ask for example billings at target volumes, slotting efficiency impacts, and any minimums or season surcharges to forecast total landed fulfillment cost.

• Validated temperature range and monitoring systems with alarms and audit trails
• Backup power and contingency handling procedures
• Cold transfer SOPs for inbound/outbound shipments
• Compliance records for food-safety or pharma standards

Critical. Key features: real-time inventory sync, order management APIs, EDI or connector support for major marketplaces/carriers, reporting dashboards, and support for automated invoicing. Confirm sandbox access, implementation timeline, and support SLAs for post-launch issues.