WarehouseOps editorial · Updated 20 September 2026
Define the demand
Provide invented or approved anonymized volume profiles, peak factors, SKU characteristics, order lines, returns and required hours. State the assumptions bidders must use and ask them to list deviations.
Ask for the full price structure
Include storage basis, receiving, put-away, picks, packaging, dispatch, returns, minimums, implementation, integration, escalation and exit charges. For a modeled month, multiply the same activity volumes by each tariff. Separate recurring and one-time charges.
Worked scoring example
A criterion with weight 20% and evidence-based score 4 out of 5 contributes 0.8 to the total score out of 5. All weights must total 100%, and every required score must be entered. A missing response must not silently become a zero-cost or high-scoring bid.
Verify before award
Demonstrate systems, visit relevant operations, check references with permission and agree implementation acceptance tests. Commercial and legal review remain separate from a spreadsheet ranking.