Require on‑time in‑full (OTIF), order accuracy, pick‑and‑pack cycle time, average lead time to carrier pickup, inventory accuracy, and returns processing SLA. Also specify integration SLAs for WMS/TMS APIs and visibility requirements to support exception management and carrier reconciliations.

Compare total cost‑to‑serve, not just rent: inbound handling, storage by pallet or cubic meter, pick fees, packing materials, returns handling, and fuel surcharges. Assess minimums, volume tiers, seasonality clauses, and integration costs for EDI/API to forecast landed cost per order.

Prioritize sites with direct access to major arterial roads, good loading bay density, secure parking for carriers, and proximity to frequent LTL and parcel pickups. Confirm carrier contracts, transit lanes served, and last‑mile partners to ensure coverage and SLA alignment for retail and consumer deliveries.

Look for a modern WMS with real‑time inventory, API/EDI connectivity, multi‑client segregation, batch/lot tracking, and reporting. Ability to integrate with marketplaces, ERP, and carriers is essential for automated order routing, rate shopping, and consolidated reporting across channels.

Negotiate capacity flex clauses, defined surge pricing, contingency warehousing options, and disaster recovery plans. Verify alternate routing, cross‑dock capabilities, labor scalability, and clear communication protocols for exceptions and change management to maintain service levels during peaks.