Prioritize: turnaround time per order, dock-to-stock cycle, labor productivity (pick/pack rates), storage density (pallet positions per sqm), WMS integration and error rates. Also review carrier connectivity and contracted freight rates to assess true landed cost.

Location affects route density and drive-time to major demand centers; closer proximity to primary highways and regional hubs reduces mileage and enables same-day or next-day delivery windows. Consider carrier lane maps and prevailing transit times when forecasting delivery cost and SLA compliance.

Require a modern WMS with API integrations, real-time inventory visibility, scalable racked storage, cross-dock capability, and peak labor agreements. If useful, confirm support for pick-to-light, cartonization logic and returns processing to maintain service consistency during spikes.

Negotiate clear definitions for receiving windows, inventory reconciliation cadence, chargebacks, SLA penalties, throughput pricing tiers, and annual rate-review mechanisms. Include clauses for seasonal labor surcharges, storage density assumptions, and exit terms to limit unexpected fees.

Assess local carrier density, scheduled regional services, proximity to intermodal terminals, and common consolidation nodes. Validate frequency of outbound routes, contracted rates with major carriers, and 3PL ability to manage multi-carrier picks to lower transit times and freight spend.