Prioritize location relative to customers and carriers, WMS and API integration, inventory accuracy and visibility, SLA performance, returns and reverse logistics capability, scalable labor and space, and transparent cost-to-serve reporting to align service levels with margin objectives.

Proximity to major highways and intermodal connectors reduces parcel zone counts and transit days, enabling lower parcel rates and better zone-based discounts. Faster transit also reduces safety stock and can lower landed costs when modeled alongside LTL consolidation and carrier selection.

Expect core services like pick-and-pack, batch and wave picking, cross-docking, kitting, labeling, returns processing, lot/expiry tracking, and EDI/API integrations. Also verify reporting cadence, SLAs, and capability for peak-season surge management.

Negotiate based on clear unit economics: storage per pallet/day, pick/pack per order, inbound/outbound handling, minimums, peak surcharges, and billing cadence. Require KPIs, audit rights, a defined change-order process, and pilot periods to validate volumes and service levels before long-term commitments.