Evaluate dock door density, pallet positions per SKU, labor flexibility, and automation readiness. Verify WMS/OMS APIs, real-time inventory visibility, and SLA definitions for pick accuracy and order cycle time. Consider bonded or temperature-controlled capabilities if relevant, and review carrier agreements for regional lane coverage.

Proximity to ports, highways, and rail reduces drayage and linehaul time while enabling intermodal routing. That lowers inventory-in-transit days and carrier spend. Improved carrier density also supports lane competition, which can reduce unit freight costs and improve schedule reliability.

Require WMS with EDI capabilities, ASN and batch control, lot/serial tracking, and GS1 compliance. Confirm support for electronic invoicing and integration points to ERP/OMS. Ask for SLA-backed reporting and automated exception workflows to minimize chargebacks and expedite replenishment.

Calculate landed cost by combining storage, handling, inbound drayage, pick-and-pack, and outbound freight. Include expected reductions in transit days and returns handling. Run scenario models for SKU velocity and peak demand; use those to forecast cost-to-serve and payback period for network changes.