Streamlining Last-Mile Delivery: The Key to a Smoother Supply Chain

Streamlining Last-Mile Delivery the Key to a Smoother Supply Chain

Streamlining Last-Mile Delivery: The Key to a Smoother Supply Chain

Last-mile delivery is a critical step in the supply chain as it directly impacts customer satisfaction. The delivery process involves bringing a product to the customer’s doorstep and can significantly affect the customer’s experience.

With the rise of e-commerce and fast delivery expectations, companies face new challenges in last-mile delivery such as lack of visibility, high costs, and demand for speed and reliability. To overcome these challenges, companies are turning to streamline last-mile delivery, which involves improving processes and technology to make delivery more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.

This article will examine the significance of last-mile delivery, the challenges faced, and the benefits of streamlining the process. It will also explore various strategies for streamlining and the future of last-mile delivery in the supply chain. By understanding the importance of streamlining, companies can take steps to enhance the customer experience and streamline their supply chain.

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Understanding the Last-Mile Delivery Process

Last-mile delivery is the final step in the supply chain and refers to the process of delivering a product to the customer’s doorstep. This step is critical in the supply chain as it directly impacts the customer’s experience and satisfaction. The success of last-mile delivery can make or break the customer’s perception of a company and its products.

Traditionally, last-mile delivery was done by shipping companies using their own delivery trucks and drivers. This process was often slow, unreliable, and lacked visibility for both the customer and the company. The increasing demand for e-commerce and fast delivery times has put pressure on the traditional last-mile delivery process, leading to inefficiencies and decreased customer satisfaction.

The growing trend of e-commerce has had a significant impact on last-mile delivery. With more customers shopping online, companies must adapt to meet the increased demand for fast and reliable delivery. This has led to the growth of new delivery methods, such as crowdsourced delivery and the use of drones, to improve the efficiency of the last-mile delivery process. The increasing demand for e-commerce has also led to the rise of new players in the delivery market, such as Amazon and UPS, who are investing in technology and processes to streamline last-mile delivery.

Lastly, last-mile delivery is a crucial step in the supply chain that directly impacts the customer’s experience and satisfaction. The traditional last-mile delivery process faces challenges such as inefficiency and lack of visibility, and the growing trend of e-commerce has only increased the pressure on the process. Companies must adapt and find ways to improve the efficiency and reliability of last-mile delivery to meet the demands of their customers and stay competitive in the market.

The Need for Streamlining Last-Mile Delivery

Companies in the last-mile delivery process face a number of challenges that can impact the efficiency and reliability of the delivery process. These challenges include:

  • Lack of Visibility and Control:

    One of the biggest challenges in last-mile delivery is the lack of visibility and control over the delivery process. Traditional delivery methods often leave companies in the dark about the delivery status and location, leading to inefficiencies and decreased customer satisfaction.

  • High Costs and Inefficiencies:

    The delivery process is often associated with high costs, such as fuel and labor costs, which can lead to inefficiencies in the supply chain. In addition, inefficient delivery processes can result in longer delivery times and increased costs for the company.

  • Increased Demand for Delivery Speed and Reliability:

    With the rise of e-commerce, customers are demanding faster and more reliable delivery times. Companies must meet these demands to remain competitive and retain their customers.

These challenges can have a significant impact on the supply chain and customer satisfaction. Inefficiencies in the delivery process can result in longer delivery times, increased costs, and decreased customer satisfaction. Companies that fail to address these challenges risk losing customers and damaging their reputation.

To overcome these challenges, companies must find ways to streamline the last-mile delivery process. By improving the processes and technology used in delivery, companies can increase visibility and control, reduce costs, and improve delivery speed and reliability. Streamlining last-mile delivery can help companies create a smoother and more efficient supply chain, leading to increased customer satisfaction and a competitive advantage in the market.

Benefits of Streamlining Last-Mile Delivery

The benefits of streamlining last-mile delivery are numerous and can have a significant impact on both the supply chain and the customer experience. By improving the processes and technology used in delivery, companies can reap the following benefits:

  • Improved Customer Experience:

    Faster delivery times, increased reliability, and improved visibility and control can all contribute to a better customer experience. Customers want their deliveries to be fast, reliable, and easy to track, and by streamlining the delivery process, companies can meet these demands and improve customer satisfaction.

  • Increased Efficiency and Cost Savings:

    Streamlining the delivery process can lead to increased efficiency and cost savings for the company. By reducing inefficiencies and optimizing the delivery process, companies can reduce delivery times and lower costs, resulting in increased profitability and competitiveness.

  • Better Supply Chain Management:

    A smoother and more efficient delivery process can result in better overall supply chain management. With improved visibility and control, companies can make better decisions about inventory management, routing, and delivery schedules, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient supply chain.

Therefore, streamlining last-mile delivery is essential for companies to remain competitive in the market and to improve the customer experience. By improving the processes and technology used in delivery, companies can increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve delivery speed and reliability, leading to increased customer satisfaction and a better overall supply chain.

Strategies for Streamlining Last-Mile Delivery

There are several strategies that companies can adopt to streamline the last-mile delivery process and improve the overall supply chain. Some of these strategies include:

  • Implementing Technology and Automation:

    Technology can play a crucial role in streamlining last-mile delivery. From GPS tracking systems and automated routing algorithms to predictive analytics and real-time communication, technology can provide the visibility and control that companies need to optimize their delivery processes.

  • Using Data Analytics to Optimize Routes and Delivery Times:

    Data analytics can be used to optimize delivery routes and delivery times. By analyzing delivery data, companies can identify inefficiencies in the delivery process and make changes to improve the speed and reliability of deliveries.

  • Partnering with Third-Party Delivery Providers:

    Companies can partner with third-party delivery providers to improve delivery speed and reliability. These providers have the resources and expertise to handle the complex logistics involved in last-mile delivery, allowing companies to focus on their core business operations.

  • Improving Communication and Coordination:

    Improving communication and coordination between all stakeholders in the supply chain can greatly improve the delivery process. By communicating regularly and working together, companies can ensure that everyone is on the same page, reducing the risk of errors and improving the overall efficiency of the supply chain.

Streamlining last-mile delivery is essential for companies to remain competitive and meet the growing demands of the market. By adopting these strategies, companies can improve delivery speed and reliability, increase efficiency and cost savings, and improve the overall supply chain.

The Future of Last-Mile Delivery

The last-mile delivery landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and advancements emerging to meet the demands of the market. As e-commerce continues to grow, the need for fast, reliable, and cost-effective last-mile delivery will only increase.

To keep up with these demands, companies must continue to innovate and find new ways to streamline the last-mile delivery process. This may include the adoption of new technologies, such as drones and autonomous vehicles, which have the potential to greatly improve delivery speed and reliability.

Another area for potential improvement is the use of data analytics. By leveraging data and advanced algorithms, companies can better understand the delivery process and make informed decisions to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Additionally, as a business owner, you want to make sure that all your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed by clients or potential customers. When used correctly, software solutions designed to support CSR can help big businesses promote their activities.

Furthermore, the future of last-mile delivery holds great potential for further improvements and innovation. Companies that are proactive in streamlining the delivery process will be well positioned to meet the demands of the market and provide their customers with the level of service they expect. Companies must continue to invest in technology, data analytics, and partnerships to ensure a smooth and efficient supply chain.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored the importance of last-mile delivery in the supply chain, the challenges faced by companies, and the benefits of streamlining the process. By understanding these issues and taking steps to improve the delivery process, companies can create a smoother and more efficient supply chain that provides a better customer experience.

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What Does the Future of Last-Mile Delivery Look Like?

Last Mile Delivery

What Does the Future of Last-Mile Delivery Look Like?

According to Redseer, the GDP share of India’s global road logistics is about 8%, and by 2024, market analysts predict earnings to reach $6 billion.

But economical and environmentally friendly options must be developed, since “last mile” delivery – which accounts for 20 percent of the chain’s overall costs – is the most costly.

When you move closer to the final client, the unit transport expenses are frequently the highest, even if the initial few kilometers are properly regulated. Since the unit cost of transportation rises as the product approaches its destination, the last mile is when it reaches its highest level.

The harsh reality is that the last kilometer is the most expensive. It accounts for around 20% of the nation’s traffic, 30% of the road system, and 25% of greenhouse gas emissions.

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Quick and demanding E-commerce

Because delivery and online purchases, which currently account for 80% of the number of goods shipped, are synonymous with e-commerce. And for newcomers to the industry, this is one of the major problems. Particularly now that express (delivery in 24/48 hours) is solidifying its position as a genuine selling factor and is virtually a norm.

Many measures are now being implemented to reduce the detrimental effects of this last mile. Therefore, it is essential to implement efficient and innovative solutions.

Increase in the number of packages to be delivered

It is now a fact that consumer habits and purchasing patterns are evolving. Consumers are placing more low-volume orders due to the growth of online commerce and their desire for immediate gratification. With more and more packages needing to be delivered to end users, this new phenomenon is boosting the flow of commodities.

This is the first challenge of the last mile for logisticians! Food deliveries are no exception. Consumers avoid going to supermarkets on busy days and regularly order their groceries online. Orders are usually processed during the week for home delivery in a few days or even hours.

25% of the CO2 emissions in urban areas

The utilization of carriers’ information systems and the reception capabilities of relay stations resulted in an average delivery of ten tonnes of products and 100 packages per day, serving 80% of the population.

They are unquestionably advantageous economically since this approach restricts the number of stops that deliverers may make (15 stops on average) for pick according to Ifop, relay stations are the primary distribution method for 50% of Internet subscribers. The last mile has probably changed more over the past three years than it has over the preceding three decades put together.

At a time when reducing greenhouse gases is a topic of increasing discussion, freight transport accounts for 25% of CO2 emissions in the city, especially in urban areas will continue, along with the introduction of new models, in the years to come. Consumers are giving more and more weight to the ethical approach of retailers in the context of global warming. This is why retail businesses, who contribute significantly to harmful emissions in cities, are now focusing on improving their environmental footprint.

Freight pooling

In order to meet customer demand, market volatility will continue to be a concern for shippers and carriers. In order to secure speedier delivery of their goods, shippers with less-than-truckload-size cargoes pay for full truckload (FTL) service, which results in inefficient use of space and money. As a result, there are more delivery vehicles, their routes are longer, and more stops are made.

Shipping companies must prepare for lower volumes of orders that fall into the volume LTL range and assess pricing depending on the amount of truck capacity they require. Between these two factors, there is frequently a wide gap, which is where pooling comes into play.

This is especially true given that e-commerce expansion has led to an increase in delivery and a decrease in package size. For carriers with loads that fall between FTL and LTL, consolidating saves unused space in trucks by packing them with freight from other shippers. One of the greatest advantages of all is still unaddressed, and that is cost savings.

A promising development

The number of plots will keep growing at a pace of 20 percent yearly. It will be necessary to find solutions to stop the last mile from becoming a catastrophe for the environment. E-commerce will grow, but so will the fragmented in-store deliveries and hybrid forms of product flow brought about by omnichannel logic.

Flows will keep accelerating. Although currently small, the D-Day segment – order in the morning, delivery in the evening – will likely account for 20 to 25 percent of the market.

As just-in-time deliveries (ship-from-store) grow more common, stores will become the primary urban logistics network locations. Due to the fact that the last mile’s value is primarily commercial, its cost will keep decreasing.

The race only finishes on the road

To reduce air pollution, several programs during the previous years have tended to promote less polluting forms of transportation. However, trains, air, and rivers are manifestly useless for direct delivery to shops or individuals. As a result, home delivery has emerged as an extremely optimistic market for road transportation.

Electric & E-commerce

However, this pooling, which is based on standardized, open, and shared technologies has benefits: the fact that it also makes it conceivable to enhance cohabitation with neighbors by significantly lowering the number of deliveries and the ensuing issues.

These factors are growing urbanization, which will result in half of the world’s population living in cities by the end of the century, and the growth of e-commerce, which fragments deliveries.

And a different business model must prevail in order to minimize the additional cost by sharing its platforms and the usage of trucking services with others in order to reduce expenses.  In all instances, preference should be given to electric cars (or non-polluting vehicles), the pooling of delivery means, and the socio-economic expenses paid by cities (air pollution, noise, and congestion).

India's last-mile and e-commerce growth

India’s delivery environment has undergone a great deal of change during the last few decades. A new delivery industry, the last-mile delivery ecosystem, has emerged in response to the growing demand for local goods and an unanticipated increase in last-mile delivery.

The last-mile delivery industry in India is developing comparably to that in China and the United States, where coverage is now above 10%. By 2024, India is projected to reach a market size of $6-7 billion if its rapid expansion continues.

The difficulties that logistics providers need to stay on top of to prepare for the future of last-mile delivery include understanding industry trends, inefficiencies in your current operations, analyzing expenses, and being aware of what action items need to be handled in the future.

Companies need to plan and scale up how they will decarbonize their delivery fleets in a way that is “socially just” and compatible with environmental and climate responsibility and responsibilities, given that the Indian ecosystem is predicted to vastly expand in terms of business.

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How MIMOIQ is helping Hinduja Leyland Finance to scale up their Operation-Process.

How MIMOIQ is helping Hinduja Leyland Finance to scale up their Operation-Process.

Here is an example of the tasks and processes that MIMOIQ executes for Hinduja Leyland Finance: Hinduja Leyland Finance offers easy financing options or car loans to customers who are looking to purchase a vehicle.

About Hinduja Leyland Finance

Hinduja Leyland Finance Limited offers loans to customers for commercial and personal vehicles including tractors, cars, and multi-utility vehicles in India. It was incorporated on November 12, 2008, and finances a wide range of commercial and personal vehicles in the primary as well as the secondary market of used vehicles. These include medium and heavy commercial vehicles (“MHCVs”), light commercial vehicles (“LCVs”), small commercial vehicles (“SCVs”), cars, multi-utility vehicles, three-wheelers, and two-wheelers. 

HLF’s vehicle finance business has a diversified customer base comprising of First Time Buyers, Captive Users, Retail Operators, Strategic and Large Fleet Owners, Small Truck Owners, and self-employed individuals, who are largely based in urban and semi-urban locations. HLF also finances tractors and construction equipment and provides loans against property. In September 2015, HLF launched their housing finance business through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hinduja Housing Finance Limited, which focuses on providing finance for affordable housing loans. 

Challenges faced by Hinduja Leyland Finance in recovery of loan amount after the car has been picked up.

There could be several reasons for the scenarios mentioned below :  

MIMOIQ assists Hinduja Leyland Finance to overcome these challenges by providing and executing a comprehensive audit process for the identification of the vehicle and recovery of loan amount. This task is made easy with the help of their vast network of field officers equipped with cutting-edge technologies. 

 

How is MIMOIQ helping Hinduja Motor Finance achieve their goals?

If a customer avails a car loan from Hinduja Motors Finance and a situation arises where the customer is unable to pay his/her installments for two consecutive months, the car is picked up and sent to a car yard. Our field officers are then activated via the robust MIMOIQ mobile app powered by MIMOIQ’s software solution, TraQSuite. The field officer assigned the task with the data provided by the Hinduja team visits the car yard to verify whether the vehicle is indeed the same vehicle that was registered under that particular loan. This is done by clicking pictures, verifying chassis numbers, vehicle registrations, and also matching the documents available at the yard with the data that the field officer possesses. Once the vehicle has been identified, the field officer then reports back to the client with the required data.

Nationwide coverage with skilled field officers

We create long-term value for the Hinduja Motor Finance Group with our cutting-edge technology and a ground presence of 14000+ field officers. MIMO’s professional field officers are equipped with agile technology that ensures data authenticity, which includes geotagging, negative monitoring, quality management, and real-time data delivery—a robust mix of services and tech to provide an organization with comprehensive constructs required to execute any activity related to audit surveys that include document verification, asset identification, data authentication, and real-time reporting. 

Streamlining the Asset Audit Process

The asset audit process for Hinduja Motor Finance is deconstructed into 3 easy steps by MIMO that includes

Asset Identification

This includes verifying and matching the data provided by the client. 

Data Authentication

This includes verifying all document-related data and authenticating the information received by the client. 

Real-time reporting

Instant updates regarding any development regarding a particular task or activity. 

Reduction in Turn Around Time (TAT):

A vast network of field officers across the country ensures reduction in TAT for any task assigned by the client. With MIMO’s ever-growing army of field verification associates, multiple tasks can be assigned, and multiple visits can be executed within a short period of time. 

How can this process be used to help other brands?

Organizations with similar standard operating processes (SOPs) can avail of MIMO’s software solutions for Asset and Inventory management, streamlining of asset audit processes, seamless data integration and verification, and the utilization of highly scalable, portable, and easily integrable automated processes.

We create long-term value for organizations with our cutting-edge technology and a ground presence of 14000+ field officers. MIMO’s vast network of professional field officers equipped with agile technologies enables a highly effective and efficient mix of skilled associates and state-of-the art tech which ensures that tasks are completed within a short period of time. 

6 Tips on Optimizing the Last-Mile Delivery with Software Solutions

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6 Tips on Optimizing the Last-Mile Delivery with Software Solutions

Last-mile delivery is a crucial procedure in the supply chain. Customers expect a memorable delivery experience, including where you’d drop their items, the waiting time, and the overall delivery costs. When done right, your last-mile delivery operations can scale your business. Otherwise, it would make customers shift to your competition.

According to a report by Yahoo Finance, the last-mile delivery market is expected to grow by over $146 billion from 2021 to 2025, with a CAGR of 15.06%. This means you need to optimize your last-mile delivery solutions to keep your business going. Now, what are the advantages of improving your last-mile delivery?  

Improving your last-mile processes in modern-day delivery operations can help reduce wastage and the cost of operations. It can also increase customer satisfaction and help generate more revenue. To overcome last-mile delivery challenges and bring the best services to your customers, follow the best practices below

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Centralize all your logistics data.

When getting a last-mile solution, make sure all your data is centralized. You should be able to see inventory availability and deadlines on a single dashboard. Other things that could be available on your software are safety concerns, cost overruns, and delays. Whatever insight you need to make your last-mile delivery process faster, it should be on your software.

It’s a bonus if you can see essential data analytics and metrics, such as the cost per case, customer preferences, and cost per delivery. Having all information in place will help you see last-mile delivery trends and opportunities and evaluate which areas of your service need improvement.

Control and automate your last-mile delivery process.

Automation is the key to fully optimizing your last-mile delivery process. It promotes efficiency, saves time, brings better customer service, and improves your overall performance. Some of the operations you can automate using your software include:

Optimize and improve your customer management.

Excellent customer service should be the core of your last-mile delivery goals. After all, your customers determine your delivery success. To improve customer management, you can provide the following services:

Empower your drivers.

Delivering an optimal customer experience starts with your team, including your drivers. For example, in the case of delivery route changes or potential delays, your drivers should always be kept in the loop. You should also monitor their performance or have a motor vehicle record background check to ensure that they can meet the turnaround time and deliver safely.  

The bottom line is your drivers shouldn’t get all the blame whenever there are lapses on your last-mile delivery. So, make sure you’re clearly communicating with them. Ask what are some of the challenges they’ve encountered during the delivery process and provide solutions when necessary. If your drivers become unhappy with their jobs, it might affect their retention and loyalty to your company.

Take advantage of the “locals.”

Have you ever thought of outsourcing your last-mile delivery process to local carriers or using local stores as distribution centers? For the best last-mile optimization, you should take advantage of the locals.

Most new businesses prefer outsourcing their delivery operations to local carriers because they’re more reliable and knowledgeable of the local area. Local carriers also work with lower delivery volumes; hence, a quicker and more efficient delivery.

On the other hand, using local stores as depot sites also helps you minimize the resource requirements for setting up supply chains. It also enables you to easily increase the number of depot sites in different destination zones, making it more convenient to plan pick-ups and drop-offs while keeping costs at a minimum.

Choose the right last-mile delivery software.

Of course, all the best practices above wouldn’t be possible if you don’t know how to choose the right software for your delivery operations. To select the best ERP software companies, determine what needs to be optimized in your last-mile delivery. List down all possible challenges and opportunities. The logic is that getting software should serve as a solution to your problems, not a new or added burden.

The Future of Last-Mile Delivery

The e-commerce landscape is continuously evolving, and customer expectations are also growing higher. Hence, it’s crucial to keep up with the competition, be prepared for the changing of the tides, and learn how to improve last-mile delivery. Why settle for less when you can go the extra mile in your services? Find the best last-mile solutions on the market to improve your delivery process and overall customer service.

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How to optimize Cash on Delivery Process and Why it’s Needed

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How to optimize Cash on Delivery Process and Why it's Needed

Cash on delivery, or COD, is a word that most of us in the eCommerce industry and online buying are familiar with. In simple terms, it is a method of payment in which the customer pays the courier or vendor immediately with cash or credit card when the product is delivered. This is considered to be one of the most popular methods of online buying and selling transactions. 

Without a doubt, technology has brought about a sea change in every industry throughout the years. Due to several constraints imposed by protracted lockdowns, the pandemic has hastened technological adoption and disrupted various sectors, with the logistics industry being at the forefront of change. The ecommerce logistics industry was likewise one of the few to recover quickly after the lockdowns. 

However, the pandemic has changed the way the industry functions, with innovations such as contactless deliveries becoming a must, and as a result, more people shifted to ordering on prepaid ecommerce portals during the lockdown period. 

While the eCommerce business has embraced these on a massive scale, India has traditionally been a cash-based country, and as vaccinations are being delivered to the populace while safety measures are implemented, the Cash on Delivery (COD) mode of payment is resurfacing. When it comes to payments, India is mostly a cash-based economy, despite the fact that a large percentage of the population has adopted digital payments. This means that the Cash on Delivery (COD) mode of payment will continue to be a major priority for eCommerce websites and marketplaces.

Despite the popularity of digital payments like UPI, card payments, and mobile wallets, research shows that COD still accounts for one of the greatest percentages of overall payment methods in developing countries. While the Cash on Delivery process appears to be simple for customers and a painless one for businesses, it is not without its drawbacks.

 

Because COD payments have intrinsic concerns such as a higher possibility of order rejections at the time of delivery, which leads to higher sales returns, a comprehensive, robust solution for a frictionless Cash on Delivery process must be established. This has a direct impact on revenue realizations, inventory planning, and other aspects of the business, all of which have an impact on the company’s bottom line.  

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Why do Indians Prefer Cash on Delivery?

Even if our society is becoming more technologically advanced, credit/debit cards, net banking, and e-wallets account for only 30% of internet purchases. The following are some of the reasons why cash is still king:

Some clients prefer cash on delivery because they want to be certain that the goods that they receive are what they expected. They prefer to inspect the product in front of the delivery person before deciding whether or not to accept it. They can seek a refund if they receive an incorrect or broken product if they opt for payments using cash on delivery. 

Here are five practical strategies to improve the eCommerce logistics industry's COD order delivery procedure.

Examining the customer's history

Every firm has both good and bad customers. Some people may be prompt in completing their monetary transactions for orders, while others may drag the process out. For logistics companies to enhance the COD process, they should use consumer behavior analytics based on previous orders and rejections. This can then be utilized to create internal flags, allowing the COD process to become more efficient by screening out clients who are serious about their purchases at the time of order taking. 

Verification of customer contact information and address

In eCommerce, numerous social media outlets account for a significant portion of consumer acquisition. These consumers are typically from Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities, and they want to pay by cash on delivery because they are making their first online purchase. Helping customers write appropriate addresses with house/ward numbers and local landmarks while placing orders is critical. Address validation software is used by most large eCommerce retailers and websites to identify problematic addresses and execute an address re-verification process before shipping those items. 

Rechecking a customer’s address and phone number might go a long way toward making the Cash on Delivery process unfold smoothly. Re-validating a customer’s contact number via OTP, doing an address check based on the content of an address, and validating the pin code based on the content of an address are all important procedures in this process. The use of Google Maps APIs to indicate redundant/bad addresses will ensure that last-mile delivery goes smoothly.  

Updating customers in case of a delay

Nobody wants their orders to be delayed, especially customers. However, in situations like the current pandemic, unforeseen delays are unavoidable. Logistics providers can integrate deeply with carriers’ Transportation Management Systems and Delivery Mobile Applications to keep customers informed of any transit delays caused by COVID-19 limits, natural disasters, carrier-initiated delays, and so on. 

Businesses should share a shipment’s Non-Delivery Reason (NDR) in advance to ensure that the delivery executive’s comments about the non-delivery of COD shipments are accurate. Furthermore, sending NDRs to customers via SMS or WhatsApp and receiving comments from them via these platforms will allow customers to alert the company to any gaps in real time, allowing corrective action to be taken. 

TAT adherence for shipping timelines

It’s critical to stick to the TAT (Turn Around Time) that was promised to the customer. Logistics platforms can undertake an internal analysis based on a carrier’s recent performance in those cities, lanes, or pin codes to allocate a carrier with the highest chance of delivery conversions and TAT adherence. These will enable them to detect carrier capacity, infrastructure, and on-time delivery difficulties, as well as assign the best possible carrier for COD goods. 

Enabling electronic/card payments for COD orders

Customers/consignees should be able to pay for COD orders using UPI, Wallets, or by swiping their debit/credit cards on an EDC machine at their doorsteps. Allowing such electronic payment options will, in turn, reduce customer rejections and improve the Cash on Delivery process. 

Conclusion:

With COD remaining the most popular mode of payment for ecommerce, brands, ecommerce websites, marketplaces must be highly adaptable in terms of technology and internal and external control mechanisms to ensure increased COD order deliverability. The measures outlined above will go a long way toward accomplishing this goal.

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5 key characteristics of successful on-demand delivery services

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5 key characteristics of successful on-demand delivery services

Companies must examine which “must have elements” are lacking from their delivery services in today’s on-demand delivery industry in order to reduce delivery costs and create better client experiences. 

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Successful on-demand delivery services include the following characteristics

Convenient Scheduling and Accurate Delivery Quotes

At checkout, any firm that sells products online should provide simple and accurate fulfilment alternatives. This contains the location and time of the delivery or pickup. It’s not easy to ensure these timeframes are precise; you’ll need to know everything from inventory location to fleet availability. For e.g. Is there enough automobile space for curbside pickup at that time? 

 

Automation is a tool that allows you to give users with immediate quotations. Of course, you must first verify that you have the appropriate delivery timeframes (e.g., short delivery windows, same-day delivery) and fulfilment alternatives (curbside, click and collect, same-day delivery) in place. 

On-demand delivery and fulfilment management that is coordinated and flexible

From the minute an order is made to the moment it arrives at your customer’s door, the whole delivery process must be organized, digitized, and synchronized from start to finish. You must have insight over the whole last mile flow, for all fulfilment models, in order to save operating expenses. That way, you’ll be able to figure out how to make the most of your existing resources and delivery providers to handle on-demand deliveries. 

 

To accomplish same-day pickup of retail orders, for example, you must first determine where inventory is accessible locally, then source orders to the relevant location and have retail personnel locate the item in time for pickup. 

The same is true for ship from store orders: store inventory, retail employees, and drivers (including external fleets) must all be in sync, which necessitates centralizing all data. This is especially true if you collaborate with a variety of aggregators or delivery service providers. 

Integrating third party delivery services

Successful on-demand delivery services refer to the capacity to satisfy client demand at any time of the day or year. Brands must be able to respond rapidly to consumer requirements and, where required, supplement drivers. This is when the use of third-party delivery services comes in handy. Brands can improve their on-demand (and planned) deliveries, increase brand exposure, and maintain high customer satisfaction by incorporating third-party delivery solutions into their existing fleet management systems. A third-party distribution hub can be used to construct a delivery network and distribute orders based on their business needs. 

Automation

In today’s on-demand culture, time is not just money; it is also the most valuable commodity. You’ll lose a customer if you can’t get an order to them promptly.  This is why automation must be built into every part of the on-demand delivery process, from backend systems to communications with managers, drivers, and customers. 

Automation is the most efficient and dependable approach to conduct cost-effective delivery operations while still providing a fantastic client experience. 

 

Based on business rules relating to cost, volume, and other business goals, an automated dispatching and routing system can determine whether to dispatch an order to an in-house driver, a crowdsourced delivery fleet, or another delivery provider. The system may also make decisions on its own, such as extending delivery timeframes or providing other delivery alternatives. 

 

All of these choices must be made in real time, which involves the use of automation technologies and real-time integration of all of your systems, including those of your external suppliers. 

Orders that can be fulfilled locally via ship-from-store and in-store pickup.

Reduce shipping costs by making use of local inventories. Understand where and when each delivery option and its linked systems (inventory, warehouse, transportation management systems) will be the most cost-effective using data and data analytics. Then, in order to provide lower shipping costs – or no price at all – in competitive time frames, build your on-demand delivery processes and resources (inventory, drivers, fleets, and other teams) and systems accordingly.

How can MIMO help?

Effective fleet management and last-mile delivery optimization will help you make fast hyperlocal deliveries, whether you are an e-commerce vendor or a local delivery service. So, are you ready to use last-mile delivery tools to boost the quality of your on-demand delivery services? MIMO can help your business come online with the best hyperlocal delivery services in the region.  

 

Successful management of the transportation distribution process is becoming increasingly important nowadays. MIMO Technologies offers a tech-enabled platform to easily transport goods and products and achieve a high degree of precision in e-commerce and hyper-local delivery. 

 

Our field officers are qualified to complete deadline-oriented work and deliver it to your customer in India’s most remote locations within pre-determined timelines. More than 14000 field officers serve in various rural and semi-urban areas.

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How Last-Mile Software Solutions can help you overcome Business Challenges

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How Last-Mile Software Solutions can help you overcome Business Challenges

Last-mile delivery logistics solutions are typically used by delivery companies or company departments tasked with managing delivery schedules. A well-designed bespoke delivery system can help a company save money while also improving its image. A business runner who adopts last-mile transportation technology for their organization reaps a slew of other advantages. 

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Last-mile fulfilment offers a variety of benefits to your company, including:

Process of Adaptive Delivery

When you use last mile software for your business, you remove the problems that come with adapting to the needs of your customers. Even after the shipment has been shipped, modern clients frequently request adjustments to the delivery terms (such as modifying the delivery time or destination location). You don’t have to worry about alerting drivers, adjusting routes, or maximizing vehicle resources with a last-mile delivery app since the system performs all of that for you, making transportation seamless and adaptable. 

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Productivity Improvements

The deployment of a last-mile transportation system boosts overall productivity dramatically. It automates repetitive, time-consuming activities, allowing humans to focus on more difficult tasks. It also aids in the creation of optimum delivery routes, allowing the average number of deliveries per day to increase. 

Increasing Profitability

Profits rise in tandem with increased productivity. Improved delivery services attract new consumers on a regular basis, increasing the company’s reputation and bringing in more earnings. Furthermore, operating expenses are reduced dramatically with automation and labour redirection, making a firm even more cost-effective.

Transportation Process Improvements

 Last mile delivery technology optimizes the transportation process by rearranging repeated tasks into more efficient sequences, decreasing truck loading and shipping time and effort. Furthermore, optimization avoids idling and delays, resulting in the most efficient transportation plan for your company. 

Business owners should engage specialist experts and explore important areas of interest before beginning delivery software development to gain a true picture of their own competitive prospects. The following are the most important considerations:

Analyze the business and the market

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Every successful project begins with thorough market research and business analysis. A business runner gains the essential background information for building their own profitable company strategy by researching the current market situation, global/local leaders, trends, and tendencies. Business analysis, on the other hand, aids in identifying all potential strengths and flaws in the existing project plan and correcting it before it becomes mired in problems. 

Legal Obligations

When it comes to last-mile transportation, a business runner should remember to follow all local rules and regulations. The legal system differs from nation to country, and sometimes even from state to state, so if you do business in many locations, you should be aware of local variances. Legal compliance can be handled manually (for small businesses) or using last-mile logistics software (for enterprises). 

A Reliable Tracking System

Prioritizing the use of effective tracking technology is critical since it enhances and transparentizes the complete last-mile logistics management process, considerably lowering the risk of package damage or theft. Checkpoint updates, bar code tracking, RFID (radio-frequency identification), and GPS tracking are all common tracking models. GPS trackers are the most exact and trustworthy, but if you’re on a budget, tracking at each checkpoint may be a more cost-effective alternative. 

Data Protection for Users

Data security is one of the most essential considerations you should make before building your own last-mile delivery system. Take into account the most recent cybersecurity recommendations and regulations to ensure that user data is kept safe. Provide your customers with a variety of authentication options, such as logging in with their phone number and password, biometry (fingerprint, face, or voice ID), or a Google/Facebook/other social network account. 

A reliable software provider

Half of your app’s success depends on partnering with a reputable distribution software provider, so be cautious when selecting a development team for future collaboration.

How can MIMO help?

Effective field management and last-mile delivery optimization can help you make faster deliveries. So, are you ready to improve the efficiency of your last-mile distribution network? MIMO can assist your company in going online by providing the best last-mile services in the region. 

 

The ability to effectively manage the transportation delivery process is becoming increasingly necessary in today’s world. MIMO Technologies provides a technologically advanced platform for efficiently transporting goods and items and achieving high levels of accuracy in last-mile delivery. 

 

Our field officers are trained to complete time-sensitive work and deliver it to your customer in India’s most remote locations within agreed-upon deadlines. Over 14000 field officers work in a variety of rural and semi-urban settings. 

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Why On-Demand Fuel Delivery is trending in India: Advantages and Challenges of this Novel Concept

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Why On-Demand Fuel Delivery is trending in India: Advantages and Challenges of this Novel Concept

The service business has grown by leaps and bounds as a result of its simplicity of use and convenience, and it has become an inseparable part of the everyday life of the average person. 

 

It’s a time when on-demand delivery services are gaining popularity and have shown to be beneficial – especially given our current circumstance, which has severely restricted our physical availability. 

 

Now that we have millions of restaurant delivery apps, shopping apps, and city transport apps to make our lives easier, why wouldn’t we want a critical doorstep fuel/diesel delivery service to meet our fuel needs?

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On-demand fuel delivery

On-demand Fuel Delivery Applications are becoming increasingly profitable as fossilized fuel has become a big contributor to global economic development. For example, it makes little sense for farmers in remote sections of the nation to travel miles to the nearest gasoline station and fill their canisters with diesel generator fuel when the fuel can be delivered right to their door. 

 

However, with increased scope comes both the positive and negative aspects of on-demand fuel delivery services. Some of them are listed below:

Advantages:

Minimize Cost

Consumers may now save a lot of money on fuel purchases and usage. Consumers can save up to 50% on fuel expenses because no extra infrastructure is required for bulk storage. In the case of fuel delivery services, a one-time investment in specialized trucks and advanced software to monitor and analyze fuel loading and delivery can assist to minimize pilferage and ensure fuel purity.

Quality and Quantity

Consumers can expect trustworthy, high-quality, and quantity gasoline from the finest vendors listed on the app. Furthermore, technical mechanisms such as geo-fencing and digital billing ensure that no pilferage occurs and that the consumer only pays for what he receives.

Safety

Using fuel delivery services has a number of advantages. Diesel is delivered in fire-resistant, safety-compliant bowsers. The staff in charge of gasoline distribution has also been thoroughly educated to deal with difficult scenarios. 

Delivery available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

On-demand fuel delivery takes convenience to new heights. Consumers may now access services at any time and from any location, without the need to invest in storage facilities. Quick delivery times provide a simple and stress-free fuel purchase.

Reduced Carbon Footprints

This service reduces carbon emissions by reducing the number of journeys to local gas stations. 

Challenges:

While customers would benefit immensely, app-based fuel delivery service providers must overcome these issues in order to offer high-quality fuel: 

Modern Infrastructure

Fuel delivery App developers should invest in a fleet of specialized cars, as well as trained staff and significant maintenance expenditures. Bowsers that are built as per PESO requirements are required. 

Robust IT infrastructure

Online fuel delivery applications necessitate a solid IT infrastructure that can handle your fleet of cars, end-user requests, and a delivery operation. Users must be able to use bug-free technology simply, with a straightforward UI experience and the ability to record vital and relevant data. 

Reporting and Analysis

Reporting and analysis are important features of delivery apps. Smart technologies that assess fuel levels, enable geo-fenced delivery to minimise leaks and pilferage, and activate alarms when triggered will give useful information for day-to-day operations. 

Unauthorized Fuel Delivery Sources

Fuel should only be obtained through approved channels. Fraudsters will be tempted to offer adulterated fuel at significantly cheaper costs in order to make a fast buck, notwithstanding the immeasurable harm it does to cars and machines. By ignoring safety regulations, delivery logistics are also jeopardised. Consumers must make sure that only legitimate delivery service providers are used. 

Regulatory Approvals

It is critical for App providers to adhere to government regulation and standardization in order to ensure that consumers and suppliers have a positive experience and to avoid potential legal issues. 

 

There are several safety concerns that the on-demand fuel delivery app must address, since the government will not grant certification until certain requirements are completed. Before beginning operations, on-demand fuel delivery applications must obtain authorization and approval from the authorities to verify that they comply with legislative requirements. 

 

On-demand fuel delivery began as a curiosity, but it soon gained traction. Diesel delivery services are already accessible in major cities around the country, and the company is expanding to new locations at a rapid pace. Because of its ease and better usage of scarce resources, on-demand fuel delivery service will explode once regulation is established. Not to mention the enormous value for time and money that consumers will receive. 

How can MIMO help?

Effective fleet management and last-mile delivery optimization will help you make fast hyperlocal deliveries, whether you are an e-commerce vendor or a local delivery service. So, are you ready to use last-mile delivery tools to boost the quality of your hyperlocal deliveries? MIMO can help your business come online with the best hyperlocal delivery services in the region.  

 

Successful management of the transportation distribution process is becoming increasingly important nowadays. MIMO Technologies offers a tech-enabled platform to easily transport goods and products and achieve a high degree of precision in e-commerce and hyper-local delivery. 

 

Our field officers are qualified to complete deadline-oriented work and deliver it to your customer in India’s most remote locations within pre-determined timelines. More than 14000 field officers serve in various rural and semi-urban areas. 

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Everything you need to know about Hyperlocal delivery-Marketplace, Challenges, and Process

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Everything you need to know about Hyperlocal delivery-Marketplace, Challenges, and Process

The way individuals purchase and businesses deliver has changed as a result of technological advancements. Customers are spoilt with numerous options in this era of speedier and more efficient delivery. They have complete control over when and where the order is delivered. Consumer expectations are growing, forcing firms to rethink their delivery methods and rely on technology to make them work. Hyperlocal delivery is the newest trend, after next-day and same-day deliveries. A company can select a hyperlocal delivery strategy based on its delivery needs. 

 

The hyperlocal delivery business is anticipated to reach $3634.3 billion by 2027, according to online reports. During the projection period, the market is expected to increase at a compound yearly growth rate of 17.9%. 

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What Does Hyperlocal Delivery Mean?

Do you have any plans to establish a hyperlocal delivery strategy in your company? Understanding what hyperlocal delivery is is the first step on this path. Hyperlocal delivery is defined as picking up products or items from a vendor and delivering them directly to customers’ doorsteps. This form of delivery strategy links local retailers and vendors with customers and is limited to a certain territory, location, or pin code. 

 

Let’s look at an example to better grasp hyperlocal delivery. If a consumer requires a certain product or item, they may simply go to an online store and place an order. Not all e-commerce suppliers, however, can deliver it in one or two hours. Hyperlocal delivery enters the picture at this point. A nearby vendor or merchant can quickly accept the order and deliver the goods, culminating in a one- or two-hour delivery period. 

What is the process of hyperlocal delivery?

A consumer puts an online or physical order with a local retailer. When the vendor accepts the order, a driver (either from a third-party hyperlocal delivery service provider or from within the company) picks up the item from the store and delivers it to the customer’s address. 

Which firms may benefit from a hyperlocal delivery model?

As previously stated, hyperlocal delivery may be made within a certain geographical area and time frame. As a result, it’s suitable for food delivery, grocery delivery, pharmacies, vegetable and fruit delivery, and pharmaceutical delivery, among other things. Such organizations are able to receive orders and deliver them quickly.

Hyperlocal Marketplace

A hyperlocal marketplace provides local retailers or sellers with delivery services. It has the necessary resources, such as a fleet and drivers, to pick up and deliver items to specific consumers. Hyperlocal marketplaces assist retailers in delivering items quickly and easily, allowing them to reach new heights. Such firms can provide a variety of things in the smallest amount of time, including groceries, meals, medications, and a variety of other items (in even less than an hour). 

Hyperlocal Delivery Model Benefits

Local stores are struggling to survive and thrive in this digital era, as enterprises migrate to online platforms. All of these stores are benefiting from the hyperlocal delivery strategy, which is helping them stay afloat in the sector and grow their client base. Aside from that, the hyperlocal delivery model has a slew of additional advantages, including: 

What is the best way to create a hyperlocal delivery network?

If you wish to provide hyperlocal delivery services, follow these steps to get your delivery network up and running: 

Overcoming the Challenges of Hyperlocal Delivery

By automating their procedures, hyperlocal delivery firms can alleviate the challenges connected with hyperlocal shopping, hyperlocal logistics, and hyperlocal food delivery. Yes, incorporating hyperlocal delivery software is a great way for a hyperlocal delivery service provider to stand out and overcome other delivery-related challenges without having to spend more money. 

 

Meeting customers’ expectations with the proper products/services at their chosen time and place is critical to any business’s success. And, in order to reach this aim, both online and offline retailers are using technology into their delivery processes. As a result, a new delivery trend known as hyperlocal delivery has emerged. Food, vegetables, fruits, medicines, groceries, and other items can all be delivered using this model. 

How can MIMO help?

Route planning and last-mile distribution optimization are critical in pandemic situations to ensure smooth operations. Field staff and courier agents should be able to monitor their orders in real-time, ensuring that customers receive their orders on time.  

 

Effective fleet management and last-mile delivery optimization will help you make fast hyperlocal deliveries, whether you are an e-commerce vendor or a local delivery service. So, are you ready to use last-mile delivery tools to boost the quality of your hyperlocal deliveries? MIMO can help your business come online with the best hyperlocal delivery services in the region.   

Successful management of the transportation distribution process is becoming increasingly important nowadays. MIMO Technologies offers a tech-enabled platform to easily transport goods and products and achieve a high degree of precision in e-commerce and hyper-local delivery.  

 

Our field officers are qualified to complete deadline-oriented work and deliver it to your customer in India’s most remote locations within pre-determined timelines. More than 14000 field officers serve in various rural and semi-urban areas.  

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Evolution of Hyper-Local delivery Services in the era of COVID-19 Pandemic

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Evolution of Hyper-Local delivery Services in the era of COVID-19 Pandemic

In this age of rapidly changing technology, numerous hyperlocal delivery companies and organizations are bolstering their services to suit the demands of consumers who want things to be delivered instantly and at their doorstep. 

 

Hyperlocal delivery services have expanded in popularity over the previous several years, with the major domains seeing increased demand in food, groceries, household essentials, and pharmaceuticals. In reality, the hyperlocal delivery industry in India received $2 billion in investment in 2017-18, and $1 billion by the end of 2019. 

 

Zomato, Swiggy, UrbanClap, BigBakset, and 1mg, among others, have become household brands in the hyperlocal delivery market. 

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Pandemic-induced disruption

Surprisingly, although the globe has been gripped by the coronavirus pandemic, which has shattered many economies, the hyperlocal delivery industry has been steadily growing despite the early challenges created by the COVID-19. 

 

The main driver of development may be linked to consumer behavior, which has shifted as a result of the coronavirus fear, and now they prefer to have everything at their fingertips and within walking distance without having to venture far. 

 

Not only that, but investor interest in this sector remains strong, with $533 million invested until November 2020. According to Tracxn statistics, the sector received $1.7 billion in investment in 2018. 

The Gig Economy

The gig economy lies at the heart of the development and success of on-demand platforms.Hiring, training, and maintaining permanent delivery employees in an environment that is more or less flexible has proven untenable in the past for startups. According to a BCG research, India’s gig economy has the potential to create 90 million jobs and generate $250 billion in revenue. 

 

These remarkable figures might be attained more sustainably if additional possibilities were created. Despite greater instances, the second wave of Covid has seen less migrations from cities and towns to countryside, as individuals have more options to earn and support themselves and their families. The hyperlocal delivery segment’s continued development is mostly due to the availability of riders for deliveries. 

Evolution of Hyper-local delivery during Pandemic

The consumer expectation of quick deliveries has been a tipping point in e-commerce. It’s no longer a benefit, and waiting for your packages to arrive as soon as you place an order is no longer a big deal. Another possible side effect of the pandemic is that the expectation of rapid deliveries has led to a lot of supply chain innovation. 

 

While hyper-local delivery has been a difficulty for numerous e-commerce and hyperlocal firms, technology has enabled them to find effective and accessible alternatives. Routing, batching, demand prediction, and rider allocation have all benefited from AI and machine learning techniques. The extra logistical benefit of strategically situated distribution centers and flexible warehousing brings companies closer to the final customer and makes hyperlocal more viable than ever before. 

The hyperlocal delivery sector has a long way to go.

Hyperlocal became one of the most important services to emerge from the epidemic, particularly for the transportation of vital commodities. Because it is a capital-intensive industry, the market’s previously established participants have consolidated as demand has increased. With companies like Zomato and Swiggy entering the market and quickly expanding, the industry has seen significant development and serves as a case study for how Indian businesses are adapting. 

 

With the growth of e-commerce in the country, many products must be delivered promptly within a certain radius of an area. With a hyperlocal delivery startup, this is incredibly simple to accomplish. Given how readily shipping behemoths have penetrated the nation, India most certainly has the infrastructure for this. In terms of growth, it took a pandemic to realize the importance of these businesses, and they have experienced exponential development as a result of the demand produced during this time. 

 

Going forward, the hyperlocal delivery area will continue to grow, particularly at a time when the COVID-19 fear is widespread and many customers have become accustomed to getting essentials at the click of a button. 

The hyperlocal delivery sector has a long way to go.

Hyperlocal became one of the most important services to emerge from the epidemic, particularly for the transportation of vital commodities. Because it is a capital-intensive industry, the market’s previously established participants have consolidated as demand has increased. With companies like Zomato and Swiggy entering the market and quickly expanding, the industry has seen significant development and serves as a case study for how Indian businesses are adapting. 

 

With the growth of e-commerce in the country, many products must be delivered promptly within a certain radius of an area. With a hyperlocal delivery startup, this is incredibly simple to accomplish. Given how readily shipping behemoths have penetrated the nation, India most certainly has the infrastructure for this. In terms of growth, it took a pandemic to realize the importance of these businesses, and they have experienced exponential development as a result of the demand produced during this time.

 

Going forward, the hyperlocal delivery area will continue to grow, particularly at a time when the COVID-19 fear is widespread and many customers have become accustomed to getting essentials at the click of a button. 

 

How can MIMO help?

Route planning and last-mile distribution optimization are critical in pandemic situations to ensure smooth operations. Field staff and courier agents should be able to monitor their orders in real-time, ensuring that customers receive their orders on time. 

 

Effective fleet management and last-mile delivery optimization will help you make fast hyperlocal deliveries, whether you are an e-commerce vendor or a local delivery service. So, are you ready to use last-mile delivery tools to boost the quality of your hyperlocal deliveries? MIMO can help your business come online with the best hyperlocal delivery services in the region.  

 

Successful management of the transportation distribution process is becoming increasingly important nowadays. MIMO Technologies offers a tech-enabled platform to easily transport goods and products and achieve a high degree of precision in e-commerce and hyper local delivery. 

 

Our field officers are qualified to complete deadline-oriented work and deliver it to your customer in India’s most remote locations within pre-determined timelines. More than 14000 field officers serve in various rural and semi-urban areas. 

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