Last-mile delivery is the most complex and expensive leg of the supply chain, and it also has a significant impact on customer satisfaction. Balancing customer expectations with the need to maintain efficient last-mile delivery operations is no simple feat, leading more companies to embrace route optimization tools and other solutions to streamline and automate complex tasks by leveraging the power of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). 

Staying on top of last-mile delivery trends enables you to be aware of changing customer expectations and advances in last-mile delivery technology, enabling your business to remain competitive in a rapidly changing market. 

In this article:

• Why Is It Important to Keep an Eye on Last-Mile Delivery Trends?
• Meet Our Panel of Supply Chain & Logistics Experts
• The Most Important Trends to be Aware of in Last-Mile Delivery in 2024 and Beyond
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is It Important to Keep an Eye on Last-Mile Delivery Trends?

Today’s customers expect fast, reliable, and flexible deliveries. They also want transparency throughout the process, with the ability to track their packages while in transit and receive real-time status updates. If your company cannot deliver on these expectations, you risk losing customers to competitors that can. 

With the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies, companies have more tools at their disposal than ever before to optimize last-mile delivery and maintain customer satisfaction while reducing costs. 

Staying on top of last-mile delivery trends enables you to be aware of changing customer expectations and advances in last-mile delivery technology, enabling your business to remain competitive in a rapidly changing market. 

To gain some insight into the most important trends that will shape last-mile delivery in the coming years, we reached out to a panel of supply chain and logistics professionals and asked them to answer this question: 

“What are going to be the most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery for 2024 and beyond?”

Meet Our Panel of Supply Chain & Logistics Experts:

 

Josh Snow Eric Dalius Mark Valderrama Alan Perkins Azzam Sheikh Maham Khan Jonathan Brown Chris Alexakis George Smith Elice Max David Zhang

Justin Soleimani Vitaliy Kharitonov Irina Poddubnaia Ilan Nass Jordan Adair Praveen Dokania Ariel Chen Chris Stott Brian Hardesty Donnie Rand Jessica Kats

Joe Bowab Gerrid Smith Eric Jones Nicole Bolton Elisa Bender Mafe Aclado Ben Pu Marcos Clowes  Victoria Yu Marijn Overvest Edmund Wilson

The Most Important Trends to be Aware of in Last-Mile Delivery in 2024 and Beyond

Read on to learn what our panel had to say about the most important trends you should be aware of in last-mile delivery in 2024 and beyond. 

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Josh Snow

Josh Snow is the CEO of Customer Feedback. They’re a group of marketing experts who help e-commerce brands get the most out of their email and SMS marketing platforms by getting more conversions, increasing LTV, and boosting their bottom line.

“One of the most important last-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond is…”

Maintainable supply chains. There has been an uptick in customers who are thinking about the consequences of their decisions before placing an order. Not all orders require instant fulfillment, and some consumers can wait to receive their goods until they actually require them. 

The most expedient choices aren’t always the best long-term bets. Many businesses are already taking the necessary steps to lessen a shipment’s impact on the environment. A few of them are even using reusable packaging in an effort to help the environment.

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Eric Dalius
@ericdalius

Eric Dalius is the Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe. In this position, Eric Dalius acts as a key advisor and lead strategist, helping to guide the company’s plan to redefine the music discovery process.

“One of the most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery for 2024 and beyond is…”

A proliferation of warehouses in urban areas. E-commerce businesses will need to relocate warehouses and distribution centers closer to major cities as customers increasingly want same-day deliveries. 

Utilizing urban warehouse space for quick product availability is crucial for satisfying rising consumer demand for same-day or next-day delivery. This not only shortens the total travel time but also improves the availability of delivery personnel and manual laborers. 

As store foot traffic declines, more businesses are turning their stores into mini-warehouses where customers can pick up or have their items delivered. The Wall Street Journal reports that Amazon has approached mall owners, including Sears and J.C. Penney, about converting their stores into Amazon fulfillment sites.

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Mark Valderrama
@AquariumStoreD

Mark Valderrama is the CEO & Founder of an aquatics e-store called the Aquarium Store Depot.

“One of the most important last-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond is…”

Rapid commercial activity. It is my opinion that the growing demand for ‘fastest delivery’ on the part of consumers has led to a greater emphasis on logistics services among the world’s largest online retailers. 

The rapid commerce sector in India is forecast to experience growth of 10- to 15-fold over the course of the next five years, becoming an opportunity worth $5 billion by 2025. When it comes to Q Commerce, the time it takes to deliver vital things once an order is placed is normally anywhere from 10 to 90 minutes. 

E-commerce businesses will be able to meet their service level agreements (SLAs) for speedier delivery by constructing a network of highly optimized micro fulfillment centers in various geographic locations.

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Alan Perkins

Alan Perkins is the Co-Founder at RadialZone.

“A few of the key last-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond include…”

• Increased use of electric and autonomous vehicles for sustainable and efficient delivery
• Integration of drones and robotics for quicker and more flexible deliveries
• Use of data analytics and AI for route optimization and improving delivery predictions
• Rise of on-demand and same-day delivery services to meet customer expectations
• Growing focus on co-creation

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Azzam Sheikh
@AzzamS

Azzam Sheikh is a Digital Strategist at Carifex.

“One of the most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery for 2024 and beyond is…”

The use of delivery lockers and hubs can help overcome the common problem of missed deliveries when customers are not home to receive their packages. Customers can pick up their packages from these secure locations at their convenience, providing greater flexibility. This reduces costs associated with multiple delivery attempts and minimizes the risk of package theft. 

Retailers and delivery companies can also consolidate deliveries at these hubs, which can lead to more efficient and sustainable operations.

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Maham Khan

Maham Khan is the Head of Marketing at EVSTOR.

“One of the most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery for 2024 and beyond is…”

The rising use of autonomous cars is expected to be one of the most significant developments in the field of last-mile delivery between now and the year 2024 and beyond. The development of self-driving delivery cars that can drive through traffic, make deliveries without incident, and optimize routes is receiving significant investment from businesses. 

The use of autonomous vehicles has the potential to completely transform last-mile delivery by cutting costs associated with operations, boosting efficiencies, and increasing the experience of customers as a whole. It is anticipated that autonomous cars will play a large role in the ecosystem of delivery services as technology and regulatory frameworks continue to progress. This will allow for deliveries to be made more quickly and reliably.

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Jonathan Brown

Jonathan Brown is a seasoned business consultant with a wealth of knowledge of financial trends and strategies.

“One of the most important last-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond is…”

Technological advancements have given rise to the potential use of autonomous vehicles and drones for last-mile delivery. These solutions have the potential to significantly reduce human involvement in the delivery process, leading to cost savings and increased efficiency. 

They can also offer faster delivery times, particularly in congested urban areas. Drone deliveries, in particular, could be instrumental in reaching remote areas that traditional vehicles find hard to access. The main hurdles for these technologies remain regulatory restrictions and the need to ensure safety and win public acceptance.

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Chris Alexakis

As a Florida Certified Building Contractor and co-founder of CabinetSelect.com, Chris has harnessed his expertise in construction to flourish in the e-commerce industry. His passion lies in optimizing supply chains and leveraging technology for efficient operations. While he relishes the world of logistics and tech, he also treasures a balanced life with family.

“The technology revolution, as people are calling it, is about to change the game for us…” 

Automated last-mile delivery programs are increasingly becoming a part of e-commerce. Why? Because they’re like our own digital superheroes, handling everything from dispatch to delivery in real-time, making it efficient and accurate. 

And then there’s route planning and optimization software, too, which are set to outsmart every traffic jam, turning logistics nightmares into smooth, optimized journeys. It’s like going from reading a road map in the dark to having a personal GPS navigator for each delivery.

Micro-fulfillment centers are also going to be set up by most e-commerce businesses now that some have used them successfully. These are compact, high-efficiency warehouses, strategically located within urban settings. They drastically reduce the distance between inventory and customers, making speedy deliveries a standard affair across all types of products. 

Guided by local demand and powered by automation, these centers are not just about delivering quicker, but also about managing inventory smarter. They’re essentially the future logistical hubs, designed to meet the growing customer demand for ‘now’ in the e-commerce world.

In terms of customer experience, businesses are going to increasingly offer a choice between AI and human customer service because people tend to have different preferences. Some want quick, AI-generated responses, but others want long descriptive ones from humans.

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George Smith

George Smith is a Marketing Manager at Infisim.

“One of the most important final-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond is…”

Micro-fulfillment centers. The idea behind micro-fulfillment centers is to place smaller, automated warehouses closer to where customers live, especially in urban areas. 

These centers can speed up the delivery process, potentially offering same-day or even same-hour delivery. The closer proximity to customers reduces transportation costs and the associated carbon footprint. 

Micro-fulfillment centers are particularly useful for online grocery and fresh produce deliveries, which require rapid fulfillment due to the perishable nature of the products.

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Elice Max
@EliceMax

Elice Max is the Marketing lead and Co-owner of EMUcoupon.

“Here are some up-and-coming last-mile delivery trends that are going to take off in 2024…”

1. A customized delivery experience. Companies are leveraging data analytics, customer preferences, and historical behavior to offer personalized delivery options such as flexible time slots and preferred delivery locations to cater to this shift in consumer behavior towards personalization.
2. Environmentally-friendly initiatives. E-commerce companies and logistics providers will increasingly invest in eco-friendly practices such as electric vehicles and optimizing their routes to achieve maximum results while covering minimum distance to reduce carbon emissions.

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David Zhang

David Zhang is the CEO of Kate Backdrop. They sell high-quality, elaborately beautiful backdrops, perfect for events, photos, etc.

“The two most important last-mile delivery trends for 2024 and beyond will be…”

Automation and customization. Automation will allow retailers to process more orders quickly, with fewer errors. Customization will become more important as customers seek tailored delivery experiences based on their specific needs and preferences. 

Since AI and machine learning are continuing to advance, this could result in faster and more accurate delivery services that can customize deliveries to the individual.

At Kate Backdrop, we have already been utilizing last-mile automation technologies to increase our speed of delivery and provide better customer service. We look forward to seeing how these trends will continue to develop shortly.

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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 spill-proof rugs that are sure to bring together any room.

“An increase in consumer interest in being able to opt-in to eco-friendly delivery options is a major final-mile delivery trend going into 2024…” 

Environmental consciousness is a major concern to most consumers, and with other industries offering options like full EV-based teams, no carbon emissions, etc., they expect the same options from others. Likewise, eco-friendly route optimization software use will likely become more commonplace in last-mile delivery, too. 

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Vitaliy Kharitonov

Vitaliy Kharitonov is the owner of ShirtZilla, an e-commerce website based on niche-specific shirt designs.

“Robotic delivery is going to be one of the most important last-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond…” 

Last-mile delivery is going to change for both good and bad reasons. This refers to the use of autonomous vehicles, drones, or robots to deliver goods to customers without human intervention. It will reduce labor costs, increase efficiency, enhance safety, and minimize environmental impact. 

Many companies are already testing and deploying this technology. Amazon, Domino’s, and Walmart are expected to grow rapidly in the coming years as technology improves and regulations evolve.

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Irina Poddubnaia

Irina Poddubnaia is the Founder & CEO of Trackmage.com.

“Here are the most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery 2024 and beyond…”

1. Automation and Robotics: As technology progresses, we’ll see increased automation in the delivery process. From automated sorting in warehouses to self-driving vehicles and drones for deliveries, these innovations will help reduce costs, increase efficiency, and manage the rising demand for deliveries.
2. Micro-Fulfillment Centers: To minimize delivery time, businesses will continue setting up micro-fulfillment centers in urban areas. These strategically located hubs allow for quicker access to high-demand products and enable faster deliveries, which will become critical for customer satisfaction.
3. Green Delivery Options: As sustainability becomes a larger concern, green last-mile delivery options will become more popular. This could include electric delivery vehicles, bicycle couriers in urban areas, or carbon offset initiatives to neutralize the environmental impact of deliveries.
4. Advanced Delivery Tracking: Real-time tracking and precise delivery estimates are becoming standard consumer expectations. In response, companies will likely invest more in advanced tracking technology, potentially incorporating AI and machine learning to improve accuracy.
5. Delivery Lockers: Delivery lockers offer a secure, convenient pick-up location for customers who may not be home during delivery times. This solution is especially relevant to urban areas where secure package delivery can be a challenge.
6. Predictive Analytics: Leveraging big data and AI, companies will continue to refine their delivery routes, inventory management, and warehouse operations. Predictive analytics will also help anticipate demand trends and reduce last-mile delivery costs.
7. Contactless Delivery: Originally driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, contactless delivery will continue to be important for customers who prioritize safety or convenience. This includes innovations like drone delivery, or deliveries to smart lockers or specified safe places.
8. Personalization: Delivery services are likely to offer more personalized options in the future, such as flexible delivery times, re-routing capabilities, and personalized communication.
9. Crowdsourced Delivery: Crowdsourcing apps, which connect independent drivers with delivery tasks, will continue to grow. These platforms offer a flexible workforce and the potential to scale up quickly to meet demand spikes.
10. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT can help monitor vehicles, route optimization, track inventory, and enhance overall visibility across the supply chain. This will become increasingly important as the complexity and volume of last-mile deliveries grow.

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Ilan Nass

@IlanNass

Ilan Nass is the chief revenue officer of Taktical, a digital marketing agency that drives results through strategic planning, data-driven insights, and innovative marketing solutions.

“More last-mile routes, particularly those involving the delivery of food, groceries, and packages, will be taken over by autonomous delivery vehicles…” 

In the upcoming years, self-driving delivery vans and drones will become more readily available, dependable, and secure thanks to developments in AI, drone technology, 5G networks, and autonomous driving software. 

Autonomous delivery is poised to start revolutionizing last-mile logistics over the next few years through more effective routing, lower costs, and faster delivery speeds, ultimately altering how we shop and receive goods at our doorsteps, even if it does not completely replace human drivers by 2024.

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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.

“One of the most important final-mile delivery trends to be aware of is…” 

The increasing integration of automation and artificial intelligence in delivery processes. From autonomous vehicles and drones to AI-powered route optimization algorithms, these advancements will streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer experiences. 

Additionally, sustainability will continue to be a significant focus, with a shift towards eco-friendly delivery options such as electric vehicles and alternative fuel sources. Lastly, customer expectations for real-time visibility and communication will drive the adoption of innovative tracking technologies and seamless delivery experiences. Stay tuned as the industry evolves to meet these transformative trends.

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Praveen Dokania

Praveen Dokania, the CEO of TYASuite, brings over 10 years of exceptional tech expertise to the table. With a strong background in software development and project management, Praveen is a wizard in front-end and back-end processes, equipped with the latest technologies.

“In an era of exponential growth in e-commerce, last-mile delivery services have emerged as a critical component of the supply chain…” 

As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping, businesses are faced with the challenge of meeting growing customer demands for faster, more efficient deliveries. Here are the key trends and challenges shaping the last-mile delivery landscape, as well as the innovative solutions that are revolutionizing the industry.

1. The rise of e-commerce: The surge in e-commerce is reshaping the global retail landscape, with sales projected to reach around 7 trillion worldwide by 2024. As more consumers embrace online shopping, businesses are tasked with finding ways to optimize their last-mile delivery operations. The rapid growth in e-commerce is placing a strain on delivery networks, necessitating innovative strategies to keep up with customer expectations.
2. The increasing demand for same-day and next-day delivery: Consumers’ desire for instant gratification has led to a significant increase in the demand for same-day and next-day delivery services. The growth of e-commerce is expected to continue in 2024, driving the demand for faster delivery. This shift in consumer behavior poses a challenge for last-mile delivery providers to find ways to expedite deliveries without compromising efficiency or cost-effectiveness.
3. The adoption of new technologies: To meet the evolving demands of the last-mile delivery landscape, businesses are turning to cutting-edge technologies. Drones, self-driving vehicles, and real-time tracking systems are being harnessed to enhance the speed, accuracy, and reliability of deliveries.One notable solution is TYASuite’s Procurement Software, which streamlines the entire procurement process, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring timely deliveries. As these technologies continue to mature, they hold the potential to revolutionize the last-mile delivery industry.
4. The need for sustainability: Sustainability is no longer a mere buzzword; it has become a pressing concern for businesses across industries. The last-mile delivery sector, known for its significant carbon footprint, is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices.Companies are exploring options such as utilizing electric vehicles, optimizing delivery routes to minimize mileage, and embracing reusable packaging to reduce their environmental impact. By prioritizing sustainability, businesses can align themselves with customer expectations and contribute to a greener future.
5. The importance of customer experience: In today’s fiercely competitive marketplace, providing an exceptional customer experience is paramount. Businesses that excel in delivering a positive last-mile experience have a higher chance of attracting and retaining customers.Key elements of a positive customer experience include accurate tracking information, flexible delivery options, and timely and intact deliveries. Companies that prioritize customer-centric strategies can gain a competitive edge and build long-term customer loyalty.

The landscape of last-mile delivery is rapidly evolving, driven by the rise of e-commerce and the changing expectations of consumers. To navigate this changing terrain successfully, businesses must embrace innovative technologies, such as TYASuite’s Procurement Software, to optimize their operations. 

Additionally, prioritizing sustainability and delivering exceptional customer experiences will be crucial to remaining competitive in this dynamic industry. By staying attuned to these trends and embracing the opportunities they present, businesses can position themselves for success in the future of last-mile delivery.

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Ariel Chen

Ariel Chen is the CEO of Chargeflow.io and an expert in the e-commerce landscape with proven expertise in B2B business and financial management.  

“Here are some of the most important last-mile delivery trends I’m watching for in 2024 and beyond…”

1. The rise of micro-fulfillment centers: Micro-fulfillment centers are small warehouses located in urban areas that can help retailers deliver orders more quickly and efficiently.
2. The growth of same-day and even same-hour delivery: Customers are increasingly demanding faster delivery options, and retailers are responding by investing in new technologies and partnerships to make same-day and even same-hour delivery a reality.
3. The adoption of new delivery methods: In addition to traditional delivery methods like trucks and vans, retailers are also exploring new delivery methods like drones, robots, and bicycles.
4. The increasing focus on sustainability: Customers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of delivery, and retailers are responding by investing in more sustainable delivery methods.
5. The use of data analytics: Data analytics is being used to improve last-mile delivery in a number of ways, including optimizing routes, predicting delivery times, and reducing costs.

These are just a few of the most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery for 2024 and beyond. By staying ahead of these trends, retailers can improve the customer experience and boost their bottom line.

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Chris Stott

Chris Stott is the Director at SevenMarketing. 

“The rising use of autonomous delivery vehicles is a significant trend to be aware of…” 

Last-mile delivery is about to undergo a transformation as a result of self-driving drones, robots, and perhaps autonomous ground vehicles. Adopting these technologies can improve customer experiences by streamlining processes and lowering human error during delivery. Additionally, customers will continue to prioritize sustainability and look for eco-friendly solutions. 

The increasing importance of data-driven decision-making is another important trend to keep an eye on. Supply chain specialists can use advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to optimize delivery routes, forecast demand patterns, and improve overall efficiency as a result of the exponential growth of data. 

By incorporating data-driven insights into our technological solutions, we can help our clients make better decisions, increase the visibility of their supply chains, and increase consumer happiness.

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Brian Hardesty

Brian Hardesty is the owner of On Display Signs. They’re a full-service sign and graphics fabrication and installation, small office printing, apparel, and promotional item company, headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.

“The two most important last-mile delivery trends for 2024 and beyond will be…”

• Autonomous Vehicles: Last-mile delivery is about to undergo a revolution as self-driving cars will become a trend. To boost efficiency, cut costs, and streamline delivery operations, businesses are investing in autonomous vehicle technology. The broad deployment of autonomous vehicles will depend significantly on the regulatory environment and public opinion, though.
• Micro-Fulfillment Centers: The development of small, urban fulfillment facilities will make last-mile deliveries quicker and more effective. These more compact facilities are situated closer to the customers, which shortens delivery routes and speeds up order fulfillment.

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Donnie Rand

@AAofOO

Donnie Rand is the Marketing Coordinator at American Association of Owner Operators, LLC.

“Technology is revolutionizing all industries around the world. ..”

The most important trend to be aware of in last-mile delivery in 2024 and beyond is the use of robotics and automation. They are making last-mile delivery more efficient and convenient. 

Technology makes delivery faster, and its biggest benefit is to analyze conditions and reduce road traffic. Many companies have already started testing the use of robotics in last-mile delivery. 

For example, Domino’s is testing self-driving vehicles. These robots are being used to improve delivery times. They are also useful in lowering operating costs.

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Jessica Kats

Jessica Kats is an e-commerce and retail expert at Soxy.

“You can expect faster order fulfillment as a last-mile delivery trend in the coming years…” 

Long shipment processes will be ditched for faster processes, and orders will be processed and shipped on the same day. Today, we get notifications about the status of our orders, and we wait to see when they actually arrive at our destination. 

Last-mile delivery will be improved and even faster. By the time the order is placed on the online store, it will be processed and ready to go to meet the short window for delivery. It will be crucial for the companies to adopt this model and shorten the last-mile delivery window.

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Joe Bowab

@Lobsteranywhere

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.

“I believe that most last-mile delivery carriers have a winning formula, and we just need to improve on it…”

With more companies leaning into technological advancements, we may see more AI involvement in the operations and the in-depth tracking of parcels. 

With the rise of e-hailing services and food delivery platforms that use maps services to facilitate the live tracking of car rides and the progression of your meal from the restaurant to your destination, we should see more logistics and delivery companies implementing this type of tracking in order to give their customers more control of the purchase.

Regarding improving operations, there are self-driving cars and drone carriers that in some instances can overtake the use of regular delivery services. Less dramatically, the implementation of AI can see the optimization of delivery routes through the analysis of traffic, weather, and other aggravating factors. 

Looking at non-delivery-related factors, AI could also assist with warehouse and inventory management, as well as ensuring the vehicles are in good condition.

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Gerrid Smith

@legalgeek

Gerrid Smith is the Director of E-commerce of Joy Organics. Gerrid Smith has been quoted on INC.com, Forbes.com, Entrepreneur.com, and CIO.com. His former company, Black Fin, was featured on the 2017* INC 5000 list at #821 and specializes in high-end digital marketing strategies.

“I believe autonomous technology is closely tied to the work expenses in our last-mile delivery trends list…”

As much as 60 percent of last-mile expenditures are labor-related. As cruel as it sounds, technology can replace delivery truck labor. 

Retailers debated cheaper shipping methods due to these costs. Drones and robots are being considered as labor-saving alternatives. These cars might mitigate delivery pains by reducing labor expenses plus emission levels.

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Eric Jones

@CoutureCandy1

Eric Jones is the CEO of Couture Candy, a 15-year-old special occasion fashion e-commerce business.

“The most important trends to be aware of in last-mile delivery for 2024 and beyond are…”

• Drone Delivery: The use of drones for last-mile delivery has been gaining traction. In the future, we may see more widespread adoption of drone delivery services, especially in areas with challenging terrains or traffic congestion.
• Autonomous Delivery Vehicles: Autonomous vehicles, including self-driving cars and delivery robots, could become more prevalent in the last-mile delivery process. These vehicles have the potential to improve delivery efficiency and reduce labor costs.
• Micro-Fulfillment Centers: Retailers and logistics providers may establish smaller, automated micro-fulfillment centers located closer to urban centers to facilitate faster last-mile delivery and meet the growing demand for same-day or on-demand deliveries.
• Delivery by E-Bikes and E-Scooters: Sustainable and eco-friendly modes of last-mile delivery, such as electric bikes and scooters, might gain popularity in congested urban areas to reduce carbon emissions and improve delivery speed.
• Contactless Delivery and Smart Lockers: With a focus on safety and convenience, contactless delivery options and smart lockers for package pickups may become more prevalent, allowing customers to retrieve their orders at their preferred time.
• Personalization and Delivery Customization: Customers might expect more personalized delivery options, such as choosing delivery time slots or selecting alternative delivery locations, based on their preferences.
• Blockchain in Last-Mile Delivery: Blockchain technology could be used to enhance transparency, traceability, and security in the last-mile delivery process, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reducing the risk of fraud.

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Nicole Bolton

Nicole Bolton is a fashion designer and the co-founder of Iconic Celebrity Outfits, where they help you dress like your favorite celebrity through their vast fashion collection.

“Sustainability is going to be the biggest last-mile delivery trend in 2024…” 

Previously, this trend was limited to manufacturing, but it has made its way to the end of the supply chain as well. A lot of new technology and strategies are coming up to make the last mile sustainable. Eco-friendly vehicles and fuels are at the forefront of this trend. 

Another strategy is to reduce the distance to the consumer. This will be done through micro-fulfillment centers. Consumer demand for greater sustainability is what is driving this trend.

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Elisa Bender

@RevenueGeekz

Elisa Bender is the co-founder of RevenueGeeks.

“One trend we may see in 2024 in last-mile delivery is…”

The use of robots for delivery. This will involve advanced autonomous vehicles, such as robots and drones. These will be adapted to deliver packages without the need for human intervention.

The main advantage of this trend would be improved efficiency and delivery speed. It will ensure faster and more reliable deliveries. 

Businesses will equally benefit from it. They can save money on delivery processes.

Deliveries on congested streets and locations won’t be a problem anymore. Robots can navigate with ease and efficiency. 

Additionally, they will offer contactless options. They will ensure a safe, hygienic delivery, especially when it comes to health concerns.

Lastly, robotic deliveries are a more green and eco-friendly substitute as compared to other means.

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Mafe Aclado

Mafe Aclado is a deals, discount, and shopping expert at Coupon Snake, a coupon and deals site where you can find countless fresh coupons to help you save money when shopping.

“In last-mile delivery trends, data analytics are set to take center stage…”

It is expected that a greater number of logistics managers will use AI-powered analytics tools in identifying optimal routes to improve last-mile delivery. By employing these tools, delivery logistics can be made cost-effective. 

As more advanced technology enters the market, the future of the logistics industry looks bright. In 2024, AI technology will lead last-mile delivery trends. 

As a bonus, analytics tools can also enable demand forecasting. This just goes to show the relevance of tech in logistics.

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Ben Pu

Ben Pu is the CEO of ShipSage.

“One noteworthy trend is the increasing demand for B2C-like experiences in B2B deliveries…” 

B2B businesses are recognizing the need to provide their customers with the same level of convenience and transparency they experience as B2C companies provide to consumers. This includes precise delivery windows, real-time tracking, and end-to-end visibility throughout the delivery process.

Moreover, the adoption of just-in-time ordering strategies is gaining momentum among businesses, particularly those dealing with perishable goods like restaurants and grocery stores. These strategies help optimize inventory management and mitigate challenges such as inflation and labor shortages.

As the last-mile delivery landscape evolves, it’s crucial for providers catering to B2B markets to meet these evolving demands and deliver exceptional experiences with full transparency.

At ShipSage, we are deeply committed to empowering businesses of all sizes with cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions for seamless last-mile deliveries. 

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Marcos Clowes, FCILT FinstSMM

Marcos Clowes is the COO of EORI UK. He is also a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

“The most important final-mile delivery trends to be aware of for 2024 and beyond are…”

1. Advanced Delivery Technologies: Continued advancements in delivery technologies such as autonomous vehicles, drones, and delivery robots could reshape last-mile logistics, enabling faster and more efficient deliveries.
2. Sustainable Delivery Solutions: With a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental concerns, last-mile delivery is likely to witness increased adoption of eco-friendly practices such as electric vehicles, low-emission delivery options, and sustainable packaging materials.
3. Real-time Tracking and Visibility: Customers are increasingly demanding greater transparency and real-time tracking capabilities. Enhancements in tracking technologies, IoT sensors, and GPS systems may become crucial for providing accurate delivery updates and enhancing customer satisfaction.
4. Micro-Fulfillment Centers: The emergence of smaller, localized fulfillment centers closer to urban areas could facilitate faster order processing and shorter delivery times, addressing the demand for speedy last-mile deliveries.
5. Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-powered algorithms may play a significant role in optimizing delivery routes, predicting customer preferences, and automating various aspects of last-mile logistics to improve efficiency.
6. On-demand and Same-Day Deliveries: Customer expectations for fast delivery will likely continue to rise, making on-demand and same-day delivery options more commonplace in last-mile logistics.
7. Collaborative Delivery Models: Collaborative and crowdshipping delivery models, where individuals or businesses participate in the delivery process, could gain traction as a cost-effective and flexible solution for last-mile logistics.
8. Smart City Initiatives: Integration with smart city initiatives, such as optimized delivery zones and traffic management systems, could help address urban logistics challenges and improve the overall efficiency of last-mile deliveries in urban areas.

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Victoria Yu

Victoria Yu has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California, Irvine, emphasizing marketing, business organization, and management. Victoria works for Making That Sale as a sales and marketing specialist.

“A large issue with subcontracted last-mile delivery providers nowadays is that…”

They’re not familiar with where packages are left, leading to a lot of misdeliveries and packages left on porches. In the old days, a mail deliverer had a designated route and was familiar with the ins and outs of each house: where to leave the mail, how far up the driveway to leave things, and the correct angle or hiding spot to guard against vulnerable packages out in the open.

Now, with Amazon and other companies contracting last-mile deliveries to their own drivers, the people delivering the mail tend to simply throw the package in the direction of what they believe to be the front door and call it a day. There’s no care or attention paid to the package. 

This can be a major source of dissatisfaction for customers as they attempt to track down misdelivered packages or contend with damages. As such, companies in 2024 will look to improve these last-mile deliveries by trying to either retain drivers in the long run or by gathering more information on each house to create a database that delivery drivers can refer to for a personalized delivery each time.

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Marijn Overvest

Marijn Overvest is the founder of Procurement Tactics. 

“The most important last-mile delivery trends to watch out for in 2024 and beyond are…”

• Sustainability and eco-friendly solutions: As people become more conscious of our environment, implementing or adopting sustainable practices will be continuously a top priority in last-mile delivery strategies. Companies will focus on adopting eco-friendly transportation options to reduce their carbon footprint, optimizing routes to reduce emissions, and exploring alternative energy sources to align with environmental goals. 
• Adoption of smart technology: Smart technology has been gaining momentum and is expected to continue to shape the logistics industry in the upcoming years. This approach combines digital solutions, data analytics, and automation that can help businesses optimize their delivery process. 

Real-time route optimization significantly reduces travel time, fuel consumption, and operational costs. Companies will embrace smart technology as it allows logistics providers to not only efficiently adapt to the demands of the e-commerce landscape but also elevate customer satisfaction to new heights.

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Edmund Wilson

Edmund is a PR specialist at DRG Solutions, a one-stop shop for all kinds of courier and international shipping needs.

“In the world of logistics, the last-mile delivery holds paramount importance for both B2B and B2C sectors…” 

In B2B transactions, the key focus lies in efficient track and trace capabilities. Online information

detailing the departure from the warehouse, the current route, and electronic delivery confirmation are critical. The timing, while relevant, is relatively flexible, as it aligns with the schedules of the warehouses involved.

Conversely, in the B2C arena, the last mile takes on a different significance. Here, precise information about the delivery schedule is of utmost importance since customers eagerly await shipments at home. 

Keeping the customers informed with SMS updates, phone calls, and an exact delivery timeframe becomes crucial. The emphasis is on minimizing the delivery window to enhance customer satisfaction and ensure a seamless final leg of the journey.

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Maintaining a competitive edge is challenging in the modern world. That’s particularly true in sectors like last-mile delivery which are undergoing rapid change, such as shifting consumer expectations and advancements in technology. 

For example, more companies are embracing automated solutions like the Wise Systems delivery automation platform to streamline last-mile delivery operations. Offering powerful tools to optimize dispatch, routing, and other last-mile delivery processes, Wise Systems helps companies maintain the balance between operational efficiency and customer expectations. 

Staying on top of these and other trends in last-mile delivery is crucial for any company that wants to keep pace with the competition in 2024 and beyond. Request a demo today to learn how Wise Systems can help your company maintain a competitive advantage in the coming years. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new trend for last-mile delivery services?

There are several new trends for last-mile delivery services, including the increased use of technology such as drones, autonomous vehicles, and robots and the adoption of automated dispatch and routing software to improve efficiency and ensure customer satisfaction. 

There is also a rising emphasis on sustainability with electric delivery vehicles and eco-friendly packaging. In addition, many companies are leveraging localized delivery hubs and lockers to ensure faster and more efficient deliveries.

What is the trend in last-mile delivery in order to save costs?

Companies are exploring micro-fulfillment centers located closer to consumers, allowing for quicker and more cost-effective deliveries. Additionally, businesses are optimizing routes using advanced AI and data analytics, consolidating shipments, and adopting shared delivery models where multiple orders in close proximity are delivered in a single trip. The use of technology like route optimization software also helps in reducing fuel costs and improving driver efficiency.

What is the biggest challenge with last-mile deliveries?

The biggest challenge with last-mile deliveries is ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery while maintaining strong customer satisfaction. Factors like traffic congestion, inaccurate addresses, lack of proper infrastructure, especially in urban areas, and the variability in customer availability can cause delays and increase costs. Additionally, meeting customer expectations for instant or same-day deliveries adds to the complexity.

Why is last-mile delivery inefficient?

Last-mile delivery is often deemed inefficient due to the dispersed nature of final destinations, which can make routes less predictable compared to bulk transport to centralized locations. This dispersal can lead to drivers covering more ground with fewer package deliveries per trip. 

Furthermore, unforeseen issues like traffic, wrong addresses, and the need for multiple delivery attempts can increase both time and costs. The rapidly growing demand for e-commerce and the consumer expectation for faster deliveries further strain the traditional delivery model, highlighting inefficiencies.