Assess WMS and API integration, pick-and-pack throughput, order accuracy metrics, SKU-level slotting, and labor scalability. Also review dock door count, cross-dock capacity, security, cold chain capability if relevant, and SLA terms for lead-time and returns handling.

Carrier access determines average transit times and LTL consolidation options. Warehouses near major feeder roads reduce fuel and driver time, lower detention risks, and enable more reliable scheduled pickups—translating to predictable lead times and lower per-order transportation cost.

Prioritize landed cost per order (storage + handling + transport), order accuracy rate, on-time shipment percentage, inventory days on hand, pick-and-pack throughput per labor hour, and chargeback frequency. Use these to benchmark proposals and model seasonality.

Look for modern racking, adequate dock doors, forklift and MHE fleets, segregated packing stations, WMS with integrations, secure yards, and evidence of standard operating procedures for returns and value-added services. Those investments reduce touchpoints and improve SLA adherence.