32 Supply Chain & Logistics Experts Share Their Top Tips for Companies Looking to Improve Last-Mile Visibility
Wise Systems
Last-mile delivery is the most challenging—and the most costly—leg of the supply chain. A seamless delivery process is crucial for customer satisfaction, but achieving that goal is challenging for many companies.
Improving last-mile visibility is the key to gathering the data that can help businesses make data-driven decisions to streamline and optimize last-mile delivery. But how can companies gain greater visibility into the last-mile delivery process? We reached out to a panel of supply chain and logistics professionals to find out.
In this article:
- What is Last-Mile Visibility?
- Meet Our Panel of Supply Chain & Logistics Experts
- The Most Important Tips for Companies Looking to Improve Last-Mile Visibility
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Last-Mile Visibility?
Last-mile visibility, also known as final-mile visibility, refers to the transparency and amount of information businesses have into the final leg of a product’s journey, known as the “last mile.” With greater last-mile visibility, companies gain valuable data on vehicle and driver performance, real-time delivery location tracking, delays and interruptions that contribute to late deliveries, and much more.
Last-mile visibility empowers businesses to:
- Resolve issues before they become significant customer concerns
- Keep customers informed about their order’s journey throughout the last mile
- Gain insight into drivers’ performance
- Respond to unexpected changes and circumstances with data-driven decisions
- Improve efficiency by reducing delays, vehicle stoppages and idling, and route diversions
- Improve customer satisfaction with faster deliveries within the promised delivery windows
To discover the best strategies companies are implementing to improve final-mile visibility, we reached out to a panel of supply chain and logistics professionals and asked them to answer this question:
“What is the most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility?”
Meet Our Panel of Supply Chain & Logistics Experts
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The Most Important Tips for Companies Looking to Improve Last-Mile Visibility
Read on to learn what our panel had to say about the best ways to improve last-mile visibility.
Marcos Clowes FCILT FinstSMM
Marcos Clowes is a Chartered Fellow at The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and a supply chain, logistics, and transport expert.
“One of the most important tips for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Invest in real-time tracking and communication systems.
Having real-time visibility into the status and location of deliveries enables companies to make informed decisions, proactively address issues, and provide accurate information to customers. Here are some key considerations:
- Implement Tracking Technologies: Utilize advanced tracking technologies such as GPS, RFID, or barcode scanning to monitor the movement of packages and vehicles in real time. This enables companies to have a clear understanding of delivery progress, identify bottlenecks, and provide accurate delivery estimates to customers.
- Leverage Data Analytics: Collect and analyze data from various sources, including tracking systems, customer feedback, and historical performance, to gain insights into last-mile operations. By identifying patterns, trends, and areas for improvement, companies can optimize routes, allocate resources effectively, and enhance delivery efficiency.
- Enable Customer Visibility: Provide customers with access to real-time tracking information through user-friendly interfaces like mobile apps or online portals. Empowering customers to track their deliveries enhances transparency, reduces customer inquiries, and improves overall satisfaction.
- Enable Driver Communication: Equip drivers with mobile devices or communication tools to facilitate real-time communication with dispatchers, customers, or other stakeholders. This enables timely updates on delivery status, facilitates problem-solving, and improves coordination.
- Collaborate with Delivery Partners: Foster strong partnerships with delivery service providers to ensure seamless information exchange and visibility throughout the last-mile journey. Integration of systems and shared data can enable better coordination, optimize routes, and reduce delivery delays.
- Exception Management: Establish protocols and systems to handle exceptions or disruptions in real time. This allows proactive identification and resolution of issues such as traffic congestion, weather conditions, or unforeseen events that may impact delivery schedules.
- Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and analyze last-mile performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. This may involve analyzing delivery times, customer feedback, cost-efficiency, and driver performance. Implementing iterative improvements based on data analysis can help drive operational excellence.
By investing in real-time tracking and communication systems, companies can gain better visibility into their last-mile operations, enhance customer satisfaction, optimize resources, and improve overall delivery performance. It enables companies to make data-driven decisions, adapt to changing conditions, and provide a more reliable and transparent delivery experience.
Matt Benton
Matt Benton is the CEO of NoDig.com, a trusted resource for finding top-rated contractors for trenchless sewer repair in the United States.
“The most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Invest in an advanced and robust tracking system that integrates seamlessly with their existing supply chain and logistics infrastructure. This system should provide real-time data on delivery statuses, and accurate ETAs, and also allow for proactive communication with customers. Additionally, it should enable easy access to information for both internal stakeholders and end consumers, ensuring transparency and fostering trust in the entire last-mile delivery process.
Rick Elmore
Rick Elmore is the owner of SimplyNoted.
“The best way to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Partner with delivery providers.
Building relationships with reliable courier services or third-party delivery providers can provide businesses with increased visibility and more control over the different stages of the journey from warehouse to consumer doorstep. This also gives organizations access to specialized expertise when making deliveries across borders or through complex logistical networks.
Onur Kutlubay
Onur Kutlubay is the CEO and Founder of YouParcel and an Entrepreneur.
“When aiming to improve last-mile visibility, the most crucial tip is to…”
Invest in advanced tracking and monitoring technologies.
By leveraging real-time tracking systems, GPS-enabled devices, and data analytics, companies can gain valuable insights into delivery operations, optimize routes, and proactively address any disruptions. This enhanced visibility enables efficient resource allocation, improves customer communication, and enhances overall delivery performance.
Embracing technology-driven solutions empowers companies to enhance final-mile visibility, streamline operations, and deliver an exceptional customer experience.
Ricky Allen
Ricky Allen is the Marketing Director of Ever Wallpaper. They sell high-quality wallpapers and wall murals designed to improve people’s homes’ aesthetics, health, and comfort.
“The most important tip I can provide to companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is…”
Ensuring that their delivery system is efficient and transparent.
Companies should provide customers with easily accessible real-time updates throughout the delivery process, including estimated arrival dates and tracking numbers for delivery packages. It is essential to ensure that customers stay informed of their order’s progress every step of the way, which will help build trust and loyalty.
Doris Joyce
Doris Joyce is a co-founder at Electrly. They supply electric vehicle charging products to provide the most intelligent and convenient EV charging solution for all drivers and industries.
“The most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Enable real-time order tracking.
Transparency is the most integral element of the shipping process, making it essential for final-mile visibility. Customers should be able to access real-time updates on where their products are and when they are expected to arrive.
If there are delays in the delivery process, they should be notified promptly. This enhances customer loyalty, reduces the frustration of late deliveries, and establishes a level of trust. Real-time order tracking can be implemented by partnering with a logistics company that offers shipping visibility.
Thomas Newman
Thomas Newman is the founder of VIVA Financial Tuition.
“What if I told you that sometimes less technology can mean more efficiency?…”
Hear me out. While we’re in an era of data overload, sometimes companies just don’t have the means to fully leverage that data. It can even cloud their visibility.
What I’m saying is, that sometimes it’s best to strip back on technology and make use of good old human ingenuity and intuition. This might sound like backpedaling, but it’s about a leaner, more human-centric approach.
At VIVA, for instance, we had every tracking and analysis tool you can imagine. But I realized we weren’t really “seeing” our students.
We made the bold move to strip it back and actually speak to them more, the old-fashioned way. It gave us insights no algorithm could. We made data-driven decisions, but they were human data-driven decisions.
This same logic can be applied to last-mile delivery. My advice? Reduce your data points to only the most critical and empower your people to make decisions. You’ll be shocked at the improved clarity and responsiveness.
Eric Jones
Eric Jones is the CEO of Couture Candy, a 15-year-old special occasion fashion e-commerce business.
“The most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Invest in robust tracking and communication systems.
By implementing advanced tracking technologies and establishing clear communication channels, companies can enhance their visibility and provide customers with real-time updates and transparency regarding their deliveries. This not only improves the overall customer experience but also helps companies optimize their last-mile operations. Here are some key considerations:
- Real-time Tracking: Implement a reliable tracking system that allows you to monitor the progress of deliveries in real time. This can include GPS tracking, barcode scanning, or other technologies that provide accurate location updates. By having visibility into the exact whereabouts of each delivery, you can proactively address any delays or issues that may arise.
- Automated Notifications: Set up automated notifications to keep customers informed about their deliveries. Send proactive updates at key milestones, such as when the package is out for delivery when it is nearby, and when it has been successfully delivered. These notifications can be sent via SMS, email, or through dedicated mobile applications, ensuring customers are kept in the loop and reducing the need for customer inquiries.
- Two-way Communication: Establish clear channels of communication between customers, delivery personnel, and customer service teams. Enable customers to reach out with any inquiries or concerns and ensure that there is a dedicated support system in place to address their needs promptly. Similarly, empower delivery personnel with the means to communicate any delivery-specific information or unexpected circumstances back to the company.
- Collaboration with Delivery Partners: If your last-mile deliveries are handled by third-party logistics providers or courier services, establish strong collaboration and communication protocols with them. Ensure that they have the necessary systems in place to provide visibility into their operations and share delivery information seamlessly with your company. Regularly review performance metrics and provide feedback to optimize the last-mile delivery process.
Joe Giranda
Joe Giranda is the Director of Sales & Marketing for CFR Classic, specializing in international car shipping and relocation.
“By definition, last-mile visibility is the ability to track and monitor shipments from…”
The time they leave the warehouse until they reach their final destination. Modern shipment tracking solutions can enable companies to provide customers with real-time updates on the status of their shipments. It also helps reduce potential delays and improve customer satisfaction.
Hence, a key component to improving last-mile visibility is to ensure that you have the right technology in place, a process that should be tailored to the individual needs of your business. This means understanding what information needs to be tracked and when, as well as how best to communicate it with customers.
You may also need to consider integrating all your systems into a single unified platform for better tracking visibility; for instance, many companies use transportation management systems (TMS) to coordinate and manage their freight needs. Customers, in turn, can use customer portals or mobile apps to securely track their orders and view the status of their shipments.
David Zhang
David Zhang is the CEO of Kate Backdrop. They sell high-quality, elaborately beautiful backdrops, perfect for events, photos, etc.
“Our e-commerce experience has taught us that investing in a trusted logistics partner is…”
The most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility. Access to accurate real-time tracking data offers peace of mind and a better customer delivery experience, enabling them to stay informed and up-to-date on their orders. Additionally, businesses should consider leveraging digital tools such as GPS tracking, route optimization, and automated notifications to maximize operational efficiency.
Justin Soleimani
Justin Soleimani is the Co-Founder of Tumble, a homeware company that creates beautiful, practical, and affordable home furnishings, including a line of machine-washable and spillproof rugs that are sure to bring together any room.
“Steering customers towards optimal delivery time options is one best practice…”
Much like offering eco-friendly options, offering dynamic delivery options like next-day delivery or dynamic pricing gives customers the widest variety of options to choose from while simultaneously helping ensure maximum visibility for everyone involved.
This improves the customer experience because they get their optimal desired level of visibility, and the company knows they can deliver on their promises.
Jordan Adair
Jordan Adair is the CEO and owner of ShirtMax, a wholesale apparel company. With over a decade of experience in the clothing industry and 14 years in the e-commerce enterprise, Jordan has successfully navigated last-mile logistics challenges.
“Real-time tracking technology is your best bet for enhancing last-mile visibility…”
By investing in this potent instrument, companies can gain valuable insights into their delivery processes, optimize their routes, proactively manage exceptions, and ultimately boost customer satisfaction. Real-time monitoring enables businesses to make data-driven decisions and increase operational efficiency, thereby solidifying their position in the highly competitive e-commerce industry.
Mark Valderrama
Mark Valderrama is the CEO & Founder of an aquatics e-store called the Aquarium Store Depot. He started in the aquarium hobby at the age of 11 and along the way worked at local fish stores. He has kept freshwater tanks, ponds, and reef tanks for over 25 years. His site was created to share his knowledge and unique teaching style on a larger scale.
“I would suggest that visibility is fundamentally concerned with information, or data…”
In order to achieve actionable, strategic visibility, the first step is to ensure that all the data required to make quick decisions on the day of delivery can be centralized in a single interface. This includes order data, client information, GPS locations for couriers, individual delivery statuses, and even item-level data. Here, close data integration between multiple systems is required.
First and foremost, it is advantageous to have routing, planning, dispatching, monitoring, and customer communication all within a single logistics software system. Otherwise, you are perpetually switching between displays and juggling various solutions, while your delivery data rapidly becomes obsolete.
Prof. Dr. Te Wu
Prof. Dr. Te Wu is the CEO of PMO Advisory. PMO Advisory is a professional project management consulting and training company. They provide a wide range of project management services including developing methods and tools, helping project teams get started on complex projects, conducting audits, and creating custom training programs.
“In my vast experience, Investing in cutting-edge tracking and monitoring solutions is…”
The single most essential step businesses can take to increase final-mile visibility. Companies can improve productivity, customer happiness, and cost savings by using tracking systems and real-time visibility solutions to better understand their last-mile operations.
Here’s how you can make it happen:
- Make use of Monitoring Tools: Use tools like GPS trackers, barcodes, and RFID labels to keep tabs on deliveries in the last stages of their journey. These innovations make it possible to see where packages are and what their current status is in real-time. You can keep tabs on your shipments from the time they leave the warehouse to the time they arrive at the customer’s door by integrating these tracking systems with your logistics management software.
- Coordinate with Distribution Associates: Join forces with companies that provide delivery services and have sophisticated tracking systems. Make sure they give you complete transparency into the delivery process by giving you up-to-the-minute information on the whereabouts of your packages, when you can expect them to arrive, and what causes any delays. Last-mile visibility can be considerably enhanced through collaboration with trustworthy partners who value transparency and provide powerful tracking solutions.
Kiran Mehra
Kiran Mehra is the co-founder and president of Goldspot Pens, a renowned destination for pen enthusiasts seeking unique writing instruments.
“The most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Prioritize effective communication throughout the entire delivery process. By maintaining open and clear lines of communication with both customers and delivery teams, companies can ensure that everyone is informed and on the same page.
This will help minimize delays, address issues promptly, and ultimately enhance the overall customer experience. Remember, a little communication can go a long way in improving last-mile visibility!
Stefan Campbell
Stefan Campbell is the editor of The Small Business Blog, a powerful, educational resource for small business owners and entrepreneurs. This blog is one of the leading digital resources for individuals who own or are looking to own their own businesses.
“I’ve advised a wide variety of businesses who have been seeking to improve their last mile visibility…”
Despite how diverse these businesses are, there is one piece of advice that applies to all of them: Don’t get complacent.
Complacency is the worst thing for any brand. It means that people get lazy and assume that just because certain strategies have worked in the past, they will continue to do so. It also means that by the time they’ve realized there is an issue, they are facing an uphill struggle to regain control.
It’s essential to regularly review and evaluate your last-mile delivery process to ensure that it is still as efficient and effective as possible.
Check in with your team and encourage regular feedback. Those who are working on the ground often have a more in-depth experience of the situation and can alert you to potential problems before they escalate.
In terms of visibility, client feedback will also help with this. Use every means at your disposal, including analytics software, to ascertain whether you’re achieving your desired outcomes and to identify areas for improvement.
Tune in to our latest Feature Spotlight to discover how simplified route visualizations and real-time fleet visibility optimize your last-mile. Schedule a demo with us today to learn more about Dispatcher from Wise Systems here! https://t.co/dMPjyYSEZv pic.twitter.com/u1kpYbKkd6
— Wise Systems (@goWiseSystems) April 17, 2023
Donnie Rand
Donnie Rand is the Marketing Coordinator at American Association of Owner Operators, LLC.
“If you’re looking to improve last-mile visibility…”
Real-time tracking is the best solution.
An option to track drivers in real time is a great feature for e-commerce. It reduces a customer’s anxiety and solves a lot of logistics problems for them. As a result, customer satisfaction improves.
But it can also be beneficial for businesses. For better logistics management, it’s vital to know where your drivers are at any given point. It will also reduce the burden on customer service reps.
Vitaliy Kharitonov
Vitaliy Kharitonov is the owner of ShirtZilla, an e-commerce website based on niche-specific shirt designs. Vitaliy has a passion for designing and creating unique t-shirt graphics and turned it into a business. He has created 100,000 designs in over five years of his merchant business.
“Improve communication with customers to boost last-mile visibility…”
Because personalized messages are simpler and more convenient, smooth communication with the truckers, warehouse managers, store owners, and the customer can be a great move to improve final-mile visibility.
The latest technology solutions are essential to ensure complete supply chain visibility and efficient management of your inventory and fleet operations.
Companies must choose a transparent supply chain visibility software to maintain clear communication of the data involved. It also means having real-time and end-to-end supply visibility.
Joe Bowab
Joe Bowab is the CEO and founder of Lobster Anywhere, a Maine-based lobster and premium seafood delivery company that has been delivering to white tablecloth restaurants, hotels, and large institutions throughout the United States for over 30 years.
“Invest in the technology to improve last-mile visibility…”
When your product is making its way from the last fixed stop to the customer’s doorstep, it is one of the most important parts of the entire delivery process. Customers tend to get excited when they know that their parcel is out for delivery that day and that it can reach them at any moment.
Despite that, the waiting ends up being tedious for them. This is where we should introduce last-mile visibility tactics.
It is imperative for any logistic company or delivery service to invest in the technology that allows the customer to be able to track their parcel. Most courier companies have this—it sends the customer a tracking number and they are able to see when it is checked out of the warehouse to be delivered.
In addition to this, having a method of communication between the driver and client can be helpful, whereby the driver can communicate with the customer that the parcel is almost at its destination. Clients tend to be happier knowing the ins and outs of the delivery process.
Raja Subramanian
Raja has been in the energy industry for ten years, possessing a wealth of knowledge specifically in the residential electricity space. Recognizing a need for change, Raja joined Power Wizard’s dedicated team to help customers eliminate the hassle and confusion of electricity shopping.
“Partnering with an online shopping assistant is one best practice for improving last-mile visibility…”
With the advent of app technology and AI-powered hyper-personalization, finding services that monitor one’s purchase from checkout to doorstep has never been easier. One prime example is the Shop app, which does exactly that, and even maps out the delivery route in advance to show where an item is in transit. Certain apps may even offer services the last-mile deliverer cannot, like a fulfillment center or included assembly options.
Elice Max
Elice Max is the Co-Owner and Marketing Director EMUCoupon.
“The biggest tip I can give to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Prioritize real-time tracking.
I have equipped all my couriers with tracking software that provides me with their location in real time. This helps me gain real-time insights into their shipments’ status, location, and conditions which I can utilize to optimize routes as well as resource allocation.
Michael Giannulis
Michael Giannulis is a Co-Founder of CopyMachines and a supply chain and logistics expert with a passion for optimizing last-mile visibility.
“The most important tip for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Leverage real-time data analytics.
By harnessing the power of data, companies can gain valuable insights into their last-mile operations, identify potential bottlenecks, and make informed decisions to optimize their delivery processes.
One practical way to achieve this is by using AI-driven route optimization software. This technology takes into account various factors such as traffic conditions, delivery time windows, and customer preferences to provide the most efficient routes for delivery drivers.
By streamlining the route planning process, businesses can reduce the likelihood of delays or missed deliveries, thereby improving final-mile visibility.
In summary, as I often tell my clients, harnessing the power of real-time data analytics is the secret sauce to improving last-mile visibility. By leveraging AI-driven route optimization software, companies can streamline their delivery processes and ensure efficient and timely deliveries.
Jessica Kats
Jessica Kats is an e-commerce and retail expert at Soxy. They provide the best shopping experience with the latest products from your favorite brands.
“One of the best ways to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
Use the right tools.
A supply chain visibility software is an excellent option if you’re looking to improve last-mile deliveries. These tools enable you to keep an eye on all parts of your supply chain. They do this with real-time data.
For the last mile, you can track vehicles in real time. This helps collect data on routes.
You can then optimize routes to reduce distances. These tools use AI and machine learning to provide insights that can improve the overall supply chain.
Ariel Chen
Ariel Chen is the CEO of Chargeflow and an expert in the e-commerce landscape with proven expertise in B2B business and financial management.
“My top tips for companies looking to improve last-mile visibility is to…”
- Invest in technology: There are a number of technology solutions available that can help companies improve last-mile visibility. These solutions can track shipments in real time, provide insights into delivery performance, and help to identify and resolve problems.
- Partner with the right delivery providers: Choosing the right delivery providers is essential for improving final-mile visibility. Companies should partner with providers that have a strong track record of performance, offer real-time tracking, and provide visibility into delivery data.
- Implement a robust communication plan: Companies should implement a robust communication plan to keep customers informed about the status of their deliveries. This plan should include clear and concise communication channels, as well as regular updates on delivery progress.
- Use data to make informed decisions: Companies should use data to make informed decisions about their last-mile delivery strategy. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement, track performance over time, and make adjustments as needed.
Ryan Mckenzie
Ryan is an entrepreneur and e-commerce geek by heart, and he has already built and sold several businesses. He is passionate about making a difference from a social and environmental standpoint and is a purpose-driven direct-to-consumer brand builder. He Co-Founded Tru Earth with his three friends.
“The key to improving last-mile visibility lies in…”
Leveraging advanced technology and real-time data.
Implementing a system that allows complete transparency and live tracking will not only improve the customer experience but also enhance supply chain efficiency. This can be done by integrating GPS tracking, real-time analytics, and AI-based predictive technology into your logistics system.
In the age of e-commerce, customers now expect transparency in their deliveries. This is where real-time tracking features come in handy. GPS tracking allows both the company and the customer to know exactly where a package is at any given time.
Real-time analytics also provide valuable insights into delivery operations that can help identify delays, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. AI-based predictive technology, on the other hand, helps foresee any obstacles or challenges in the delivery route and provides alternatives to ensure swift and successful delivery.
Balancing this tech-centric strategy with strengthening relationships with your last-mile delivery partners is fundamental. After all, they are your company’s final point of contact with the customer, and their service will affect your brand reputation.
For businesses aiming to improve last-mile visibility, it’s recommended to utilize the power of technology for tracking, predictive analysis, and efficient routing while maintaining strong relationships with delivery partners.
Marijn Overvest
Marijn Overvest is the founder of Procurement Tactics. They educate procurement professionals.
“The most important tip for companies to improve their last-mile visibility is to…”
Invest in real-time tracking and monitoring solutions.
Implementing a robust tracking system that provides real-time updates on the status and location of deliveries is paramount for enhancing visibility throughout the last-mile delivery process. As this offers various benefits, including gaining immediate insights into delivery status and identifying inefficiencies, and bottlenecks.
This also helps in enhancing customer experience by providing accurate information, enabling proactive issue resolution, and facilitating data-driven decision-making.
Such investments will empower companies to optimize operations and enhance customer satisfaction which helps companies to maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Elisa Bender
Elisa Bender is the co-founder of RevenueGeeks.
“The most important tip for companies to improve their last-mile visibility is to…”
Offer customized delivery time options.
It’s important to keep in mind that 96 percent of buyers think that same-day delivery means quick arrival.
Personalized delivery times go beyond same-day shipping. It is obvious that speed is key, but convenience is also significant.
Retailers looking to offer top-notch last-mile delivery should consider same-day. Other options include a scheduled time or even local pickup delivery. It allows the consumer to pick up their package from a convenience shop nearby.
Matt Rice
Matt Rice is an outdoor enthusiast and hunting expert who owns Ozark Armament, where high-quality outdoor accessories are their specialty. With a passion for the great outdoors, Matt merges adventure with top-tier customer service.
“As the owner of an e-commerce retail store, it’s crucial to enhance areas like last-mile visibility…”
I’ve found utilizing real-time tracking technology such as Aftership.com to be beneficial, providing immediate data on package locations and estimated delivery times. Keeping customers informed fosters trust and improves overall satisfaction.
Much to our surprise, we even get 5-star product reviews that specifically only mention how satisfied they were with our shipping & tracking process.
Younes El Kacimi, Ph.D.
Younes El Kacimi is the founder of Wavalon.com and the owner of multiple e-commerce stores that specialize in providing seamless online shopping experiences. With a strong focus on supply chain operations, Younes brings valuable insights from years of experience in the industry.
“The most important tip for companies to improve their last-mile visibility is to…”
Invest in real-time tracking technology.
In the digital age, visibility is all about real-time data. Companies should leverage tracking technology that provides constant, real-time updates on the location and status of deliveries. This allows for immediate action in case of delays or issues and provides customers with accurate, up-to-the-minute information about their orders.
This not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances customer satisfaction, creating a win-win situation for businesses and their clients.
Anthony Bautista
Anthony Bautista is the Founder/CEO at Pure CBD Now.
“To enhance last-mile visibility, companies should leverage…”
Real-time data and advanced analytics.
By integrating GPS tracking, sensors, and mobile devices, they can gather real-time information on delivery vehicles and personnel. This data, analyzed through predictive analytics and route optimization, allows for proactive adjustments to routes, addressing delays, and improving overall efficiency.
Automated customer notifications and empowering delivery staff with real-time navigation also contribute to a smoother process. Regular analysis of collected data supports continuous improvement and informed decision-making for better last-mile operations.
Chris Looney
Chris Looney is the Chief Executive Officer at SporesMD.
“In the dynamic landscape of last-mile delivery, achieving optimal visibility stands as a linchpin for success…”
By integrating cutting-edge technology solutions, companies can transform their operations into well-oiled, data-driven systems. Real-time tracking, GPS-enabled devices, and route optimization software enable accurate monitoring of delivery progress and potential disruptions.
However, the true power lies in effective communication. Timely updates provided to customers about their deliveries not only manage expectations but also foster a sense of reliability and trust.
Moreover, e-commerce retailers should tailor their delivery options to match individual preferences, thus enhancing customer satisfaction. Flexibility in time slots, expedited delivery choices, and convenient pick-up points create a personalized experience.
As the industry evolves, these strategies remain vital, collectively paving the way for smoother, more efficient last-mile journeys.
Derek Szopa
Derek founded CloudSort with the goal of reinventing what’s possible in the supply chain’s “middle mile” through a platform built for today’s shipping complexities. Derek has leadership experience from Amazon and FedEx, and he served as an officer of the Marines. Derek completed the Executive MBA Program at Columbia Business School.
“Investing in technology is crucial for businesses to enhance visibility throughout the entire sorting and delivery process…”
By leveraging the right technology, companies can improve productivity, boost operational efficiency, and address common delivery issues. Technology provides predictive visibility and transparent supply and demand visibility, optimizing sortation operations, enabling tracking capabilities, optimizing routes, and providing customers with accurate delivery updates.
This clear final-mile visibility facilitates accurate KPI benchmarking, allowing businesses to stay on track with goals and improve delivery turnaround time. The same holds true with middle-mile operations, and last-mile delivery partners should look to partner with like-minded middle-mile businesses.
Embracing technology empowers businesses to gain a competitive edge and improve overall customer satisfaction.
Last-mile visibility is crucial for companies that want to maintain an edge in today’s competitive environment. It helps to improve operational efficiency and provides valuable insights to aid in reducing costs, and it plays a significant role in customer satisfaction.
Companies looking to improve last-mile visibility are embracing technologies like the Wise Systems delivery automation platform, a suite of solutions that help to optimize last-mile delivery operations, from dispatch and routing to driver and customer communication.
Customer Portal from Wise Systems allows customers to track their orders throughout the last-mile delivery process with accurate real-time ETAs. Additionally, customers can receive notifications when their deliveries are delayed or imminent, so they don’t have to continuously monitor their delivery’s progress.
Ready to improve last-mile visibility and boost customer satisfaction? Request a demo today to learn how Wise Systems can transform your last-mile delivery operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is last-mile visibility?
Last-mile visibility is the information companies have about a product’s journey throughout the last-mile delivery process, typically from a local distribution center to the customer’s home, including real-time information on the product’s location, status, estimated delivery time, and more.
Last-mile visibility enables businesses to collect and analyze data on every facet of last-mile delivery operations, identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, and make data-driven decisions to respond to unexpected circumstances.
How can I improve my last-mile visibility?
Improving last-mile visibility requires investing in the right tools and technologies, such as vehicle tracking systems, IoT devices, and software solutions. Autonomous dispatch and routing software like the Wise Systems delivery automation platform is one of the most comprehensive tools to improve last-mile visibility. These software solutions help to improve customer service, fleet efficiency, on-time deliveries, and asset utilization while minimizing manual route planning and reducing operational costs.
What are the key success factors for last-mile delivery?
Key success factors for last-mile delivery include:
- Last-mile visibility into fleet performance, driver performance, routes, and more
- Real-time customer notifications and alerts
- Faster and accurate deliveries to the correct address without damage
- Delivery within the promised time windows
- Balancing operational efficiency and customer expectations
Why is the last mile important in logistics?
The last mile is important in logistics because it’s the most time-consuming stage of the logistics process and accounts for about 50% of total delivery costs. It’s also the most challenging stage of the delivery process, as it involves many individual deliveries to different addresses. Therefore, there are many variables that can impact the delivery, making it complex and unpredictable.
Additionally, because last-mile delivery is the final leg of the delivery process, it’s during this stage that the customer receives their order—meaning it has a direct impact on customer satisfaction and experience.
