Evaluate proximity to major corridors and border points to reduce transit time; carrier density for parcel, LTL and TL; facility specifications (ceiling height, dock count, temp control); WMS and integration readiness; staffing model and scalability for peak periods; and clear SLA and reporting commitments.

Assess capacity flex (temporary storage and labor), seasonal staffing strategies, automated sorting and returns workflows, reverse-logistics SLAs, inspection and disposition processes, and demonstrated experience handling peak surges with measurable KPIs.

Include receiving and putaway fees, storage (per pallet or per cubic foot), pick-and-pack charges, kitting and value-added service fees, outbound transportation and fuel surcharges, accessorials, minimums, WMS/IT fees, and inventory carrying costs to compute total cost-to-serve.

Look for production-grade WMS with real-time inventory, EDI and API connectivity for orders and ASNs, barcode scanning and mobile operations, configurable dashboards and KPI reporting, audit trails, and formal test plans for integration and data validation.