Evaluate physical infrastructure (racking, temperature control, security), IT integration (WMS APIs, real-time inventory), and labor models. Key KPIs include order accuracy, on-time dispatch, inventory cycle count variance, dwell time, and cost per pick/pack/ship. Confirm carrier interfaces and contingency plans for peak demand.

Proximity to primary road corridors reduces linehaul miles and allows more frequent carrier pickups, which lowers freight costs and shortens lead times. Review carrier density, border transit times for cross-border flows, and consolidation options to quantify cost-to-serve by SKU and destination zone.

Negotiate clear SLAs (OTD, accuracy, claims), transparent rate tables (storage, handling, add-ons), minimum term flexibility, and exit/transition clauses. Require regular performance reporting, security audits, and a documented disaster recovery plan to ensure continuity as volumes scale or channels shift.