Prioritize WMS/OMS integration and real-time inventory visibility, multi-carrier parcel and pallet connectivity, returns and reverse logistics workflows, pick-and-pack throughput, temperature-controlled storage if required, and scalable labor. Also verify SLAs for order accuracy, cut-off times and contingency plans for peak season to protect delivery windows and customer experience.

Florence's connectivity to Mediterranean ports, national highways and regional rail reduces drayage and inland haul distances, lowering LTL and FTL costs and transit times. Closer port access and efficient highway links also decrease inventory-in-transit days, improving replenishment cycles for B2B distribution and tightening delivery SLAs to downstream customers.

Require measurable SLAs such as on-time-in-full (OTIF), order accuracy, average pick rate per hour, dock-to-despatch lead time, and capacity guarantees. Request documented surge staffing plans, contingency transport options, reporting cadence, and penalty or remediation clauses to mitigate peak-season disruption and protect customer deliveries.

Assess API/EDI options, out-of-the-box connectors for major marketplaces, sandbox/testing environments, reporting and BI capabilities, and support for warehouse rules like batch/lot control or temperature profiling. Validate integration timelines, data mappings, and SLA for issue resolution to ensure the partner can support your SKU complexity and order velocity.