Prioritize location relative to your customer base and carrier lanes, WMS and API/EDI integration, slotting and racking capacity for SKU growth, dock and trailer capacity, explicit SLA terms for pick/pack/ship, labor scalability for peaks, and cold-chain or value-added service capabilities if required.

Common models include per-pallet or per-cubic-foot storage, per-pick/per-order and handling fees, receiving and putaway charges, and accessorials for returns or special handling. Expect minimum monthly volumes, tiered pricing for scale, and 30–90 day notice periods for termination or rate changes.

Transit depends on lane and carrier: local metro deliveries can be same-day to next-day, regional shipments typically 1–2 days, and cross-country moves generally 2–4 days under standard parcel or LTL networks. Intermodal options may extend lead time but lower cost for heavier freight.

Require a modern WMS with real-time inventory visibility, barcode scanning, and API/EDI connectivity. Key KPIs include inventory accuracy, order cycle time, pick accuracy, on-time shipment rate, dock-to-stock time, and return processing turnaround. Request historical SLA performance data during due diligence.