Assess warehouse management system (WMS) functionality, real-time inventory visibility, slotting and picking strategies, cross-dock capacity, packaging and returns handling, and connectivity to your order management or ERP. Confirm SLA enforcement, exception workflows, and peak-season scalability.

Carrier density and proximity to main highways determine pickup windows, drop-off frequency, and route efficiency. Better connectivity reduces empty miles and transit variability, lowering freight spend and improving predictability for both parcel and pallet shipments.

Compare fixed facility costs, handling and pick-pack labor rates, inbound/outbound freight assumptions, storage density (racking vs. bulk), value-added service fees, and chargebacks for exceptions. Model cost-to-serve by SKU and channel to identify pricing sensitivity.

Include on-time dispatch rates, order accuracy, inventory accuracy, dock-to-stock lead times, chargeback thresholds, and defined peak-season capacity commitments. Require data integration, regular operational reviews, and clear change-management processes.