Evaluate carrier access and transit times, WMS and OMS integrations, inventory accuracy, pick/pack productivity, returns handling, and value‑added services like kitting. Confirm dock handling, scalable labor pools, SLA enforcement, and visibility tools to ensure consistent omnichannel execution.

Compare storage (per pallet/sq ft), inbound receiving, per‑pick and per‑order fees, minimums, outbound parcel discounts, chargebacks, and billing cadence. Also evaluate SLA terms, performance penalties, and which costs scale with volume to model total cost‑to‑serve.

Prioritize WMS functionality, automation readiness (conveyors, sortation, pick modules), flexible slotting, temporary labor relationships, cross‑dock capacity, and direct carrier integrations. These capabilities sustain throughput spikes and maintain order accuracy during peaks.

Appleton's access to interstate corridors and regional carrier networks shortens cycle times to Midwest population centers and supports competitive parcel and LTL rates. Use it to optimize inventory placement—centralize slow movers, decentralize fast movers—to balance cost and delivery speed.

Request historical KPIs on inventory accuracy, OTIF, order lead time, pick error rates, and dock turns. Audit financial terms, insurance limits, disaster recovery plans, technology APIs, onboarding timelines, and clear exit clauses to manage risk and ensure service alignment.