Prioritize measurable operational criteria: WMS/OMS integration and APIs, carrier lane coverage and transit times, throughput and pick/pack rates, SLA terms, labor scalability and seasonal capacity, value-added services (kitting, returns, temperature control), and accessorial fee structure. Score providers against these metrics to align capabilities with your service-level targets and cost constraints.

Placing inventory in Barstow reduces road miles to the Inland Empire, Southern California suburbs, and parts of the Southwest due to direct I‑15/I‑40 access, often lowering last-mile costs and transit days versus coastal fulfillment. Rail connections also enable cost-effective long-haul moves for inbound inventory, improving landed cost when consolidated shipments are feasible.

Look for facilities with high racking density, clear cross-dock lanes, segregated temperature zones if needed, secure receiving and staging areas, barcode/scan validation, GS1/EDI support, staffed returns processing, and documented safety and regulatory compliance. These features preserve service levels across B2B, eCommerce, and retail channels.

Compare storage vs activity-based pricing, per-pick and packing fees, inbound receiving charges, minimums, fuel and accessorial surcharges, and slotting or replenishment fees. Review SLA metrics for order accuracy, on-time shipments, and chargebacks, plus defined remedies or credits. Model scenarios (peak and off-peak) to estimate true landed cost under each provider contract.