Prioritize carrier connectivity to reduce transit zones, IT/API compatibility for order and inventory sync, dock and staging capacity for throughput, and flexible labor models for peaks. Also evaluate returns handling, packaging options, and SLA guarantees tied to order accuracy and cut-off times.

Harrow generally offers lower land and occupancy costs than inner-London locations while providing access to a broad labor pool. Cost levers include density-based slotting, shared services (consolidation), automation for repetitive tasks, and negotiated carrier rates through bundled volumes.

Road access to the M25 and A40 reduces UK transit zones and supports fast motorway routes. Proximity to Heathrow improves air freight outbound/inbound lead times. For continental lanes, efficient routing to south-coast freight nodes and motorway feeder services matters most for predictable transit times.

Require clear SLAs for order accuracy, on-time shipping, dock-to-forklift turnaround, and inventory accuracy. Include penalties or service credits for missed SLAs, agreed capacity uplift options for peaks, and reporting cadence for OTIF, pick/pack rates, and shrinkage.