Focus on measurable KPIs: average order cycle time, on‑time delivery rate, inventory accuracy, and pick/pack throughput. Also evaluate WMS capability, EDI/API integrations, SLA penalties, and value‑added services like kitting, returns management and custom packaging. Request site visits and audit reports to validate processes and labor productivity.

Highway proximity to I‑25 provides direct TL and regional LTL lanes; connections to Albuquerque expand intermodal and air options. Expect competitive regional LTL coverage plus reliable truckload capacity for westbound and southbound lanes. Plan routing to leverage Albuquerque hubs for long‑haul consolidation to reduce cost and transit variability.

Benefits include lower real estate rental rates and reduced local labor costs versus coastal and major Texas metros, improving landed cost per unit. Tradeoffs can include fewer immediate carrier terminals on‑site and potentially longer first‑mile drayage to intermodal facilities. Model total landed cost, including drayage and inventory carrying, to compare effectively.

Require a cloud‑capable WMS with real‑time inventory visibility, carrier rate shopping and label generation, EDI/API connectivity for order and tracking exchange, and support for marketplace integrations (Amazon, Shopify, etc.). Confirm reporting, exception workflows, and sandbox testing for integration before contract execution.