Prioritize proximity to major highways and customer concentration, carrier terminal density (parcel and LTL), transit-time coverage to top zip codes, dock and staging capacity, and real‑time WMS/API connectivity for visibility and routing optimization.

Higher carrier density and shorter regional lanes typically reduce per-shipment costs through competition and lower mileage charges. Consolidation points and cross-dock options in the region can further reduce LTL minimums and parcel zone-related surcharges.

Request a WMS with API/EDI, barcode-directed picking, scalable order-to-shipment workflows, sortation or pick-to-light for high-SKU velocity, robust returns handling, and service-level guarantees for accuracy and same/next-day fulfillment.

Compare unit pick/pack tiers, storage definitions, inbound receiving fees, minimums, pick-face vs bulk storage charges, returns costs, and integration/setup fees. Model costs across peak periods and SKU mix to estimate total cost of ownership.

Plan a phased migration: perform a SKU and process audit, map EDI/API integrations, run parallel inventory and test orders, schedule inbound shipments with safety stock, train workflows, and monitor KPIs (OTD, accuracy, cycle times) during ramp-up.