Prioritize location relative to demand, WMS and API maturity, SLA commitments (lead times, accuracy), throughput capacity, handling for returns/knockdown, insurance and security, and contingency plans for seasonal peaks. Consider on‑site automation and value‑added services that reduce manual labor and uplift order velocity.

Assess proximity to port/airport, highway access for regional TL/LTL, availability of local last‑mile carriers, intermodal options for consolidations, and carrier onboarding speed. Also evaluate dock configurations, cross‑dock capability, and yard space for trailer staging.

Location impacts transit spend: closer to demand reduces last‑mile costs but can raise rent. Labor availability affects operating hours and cost-per-pick; automation can offset labor constraints. Model total landed cost including transit, storage, handling, and returns to choose the optimal site.

Require documented API/EDI, sandbox environments, SLA dashboards, real‑time inventory sync, and standard KPIs (OTD, accuracy, dwell). Look for structured onboarding plans, testing windows, rollback procedures, and clear escalation paths to reduce integration friction.