Prioritize measurable KPIs and infrastructure: transit time to core markets, dock door capacity, cross-dock and sortation capabilities, inventory accuracy rates, order cycle time, and integration with your order management and carrier systems. Also evaluate peak capacity, SLA penalties, and tech support for returns and split shipments.

Lamar's proximity to primary highways shortens line-haul miles and increases carrier density, which reduces last-mile cost and transit variability. Fewer empty miles and better route density improve zone skipping options and carrier negotiating leverage, lowering landed cost for both parcel and LTL flows.

Look for real-time WMS integration, scalable racking, adequate dock door counts, dedicated packing lines, returns processing, and ability to implement pick-and-pack rules. Verify seasonal staffing plans, onboarding timelines, and data-level access for inventory and order visibility.

Compare base storage rates, receiving and handling fees, pick-and-pack charges, cartonization rules, minimum monthlys, and carrier pass-through costs. Evaluate how SKU velocity impacts cost-per-order and whether the provider offers volume discounts, zone optimization, or binding SLA credits tied to performance.