Prioritize measurable KPIs and system capabilities: pick/pack accuracy, order cycle time, dock door and staging capacity, WMS/API or EDI integrations, returns processing, SKU density and racking, and peak labor scalability. Confirm SLAs and reporting cadence for inventory reconciliation and on-time delivery to retail and DTC channels.

Transportation impact depends on lane density and carrier networks. Cody offers regional LTL and TL coverage with lower terminal congestion, which can reduce line-haul variability. Evaluate carriers serving your top lanes, intermodal options for long hauls, and zone-based last‑mile costs when modeling landed cost and delivery windows.

Look for flexible staging and overflow space, modular racking, temporary labor pools or staffing partners, additional dock doors, and WMS support for wave/batch processing. Cross-dock capability and pre-pack/kitting services reduce handling time during peaks and support rapid throughput increases without long-term footprint expansion.

Negotiate clear SLAs (OTD, accuracy), storage and handling rate tiers, minimums and seasonal surcharges, chargeback rules, forecasting requirements, billing cadence, and exit terms. Include performance KPIs, inventory reconciliation frequency, integration scope and costs, and capacity guarantees or notice periods for scaling operations.