Focus on carrier connectivity (parcel, LTL, regional TL), proximity to major interstates and port terminals, WMS capabilities (real‑time inventory, API integrations), and labor scalability. Compare demonstrated throughput for peak windows and value‑added services like kitting, returns processing, and temperature control.

Warehouse rent and labor rates directly affect storage and pick/pack costs. National City can offer lower real estate premiums versus primary LA basin locations, but evaluate local labor pools, overtime risks, and seasonality to model per‑order costs across projected volumes.

Require a robust WMS with order routing, lot/serial tracing, and EDI/API integrations. Assess multi‑channel picking strategies, ability to handle small parcel packaging, managed inventory reporting, and SLA enforcement for carrier tendering and ASN/PO workflows.

National City’s port adjacency and access to major interstates reduce dray and highway transit times to inland West Coast markets. This supports flexible carrier options for regional LTL and parcel and can improve on‑time metrics for next‑day and two‑day delivery corridors.