In the journey of a product, it goes through various processes from storage on shelves to loading onto the back of a lorry and finally delivery to the customer's door. This last phase is known as "the last mile of delivery.
This process is crucial to the customer experienceIt requires coordination and precision to ensure on-time delivery, however, it is an opportunity for companies to offer a quality and differentiated service. It requires coordination and precision to ensure on-time delivery, however, it is an opportunity for companies to offer a quality and differentiated service.
What is the last mile in logistics
The last mile is a term used in logistics and is the process from the distribution centre to the delivery of the product at the final destination.
Due to the large number of potential locations involved, the use of large vehicles is not cost-effective for last mile deliveries, and smaller vehicles, such as vans, are used instead.
In this process, a number of tasks such as route management, delivery time planning and information management must be coordinated to ensure that the product arrives at its destination in the best condition.
How the latest technology is improving the last mile
Technology has become a key aspect of last mile management, offering tools that improve delivery accuracy and efficiency. Technology solutions such as real-time order tracking, route optimisation and delivery process automation have proven to be effective in reducing delivery times and improving customer satisfaction.
Companies can get their online orders to customers faster. In addition, they have the freedom to make on-demand and scheduled deliveries, ensuring that customers can be at home at the time of delivery.
Celeritas, as a company specialising in logistics solutions, has integrated the latest technologies into its last mile process to enhance the customer experience. Through its digital platform, it allows customers to track their order in real time and receive delivery status notifications.
Last mile challenges
The last mile presents a number of challenges that affect service quality and delivery efficiency.
How traffic and congestion affect the last mile of logistics
Traffic and congestion are challenges that directly affect the last mile, as they can lead to delivery delays and increased transport costs. In this regard, route planning becomes critical to avoid congestion hotspots and ensure on-time delivery. Technological solutions, such as route optimisation systems, help minimise delivery time and optimise the efficiency of the transport fleet.
How lack of trained staff can affect the last mile of logistics
Lack of trained staff and delivery efficiency is another challenge that can affect the last mile of logistics.
Lead time management, logistics coordination and attention to detail in the delivery process are critical aspects that require highly trained and experienced staff. Lack of training can lead to delivery errors, delays and poor lead time management.
That is why Celeritas has established ongoing training programmes for its delivery staff to ensure that its employees are prepared and trained to perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. These training programmes include training in delivery techniques, customer service and the use of order tracking and control technologies.
How cost can affect the last mile of logistics
The cost of the last mile in logistics can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as geographic location, the distance between the distribution centre and the final destination, the complexity of the delivery, the number of deliveries, the type of product and the level of service required.
Another feature to note is the increasing normalisation of "free shipping" - customers are less willing to pay for a shipment, forcing companies to bear the cost. In addition, the last mile can also be affected by unforeseen costs such as traffic, weather conditions, security issues and other external factors that can increase costs and affect delivery time.
Improve the last mile with Celeritas
In summary, the last mile is a critical process in the supply chain that has a direct impact on the customer experience, and in turn, technology and staff training are becoming key elements in improving the efficiency and quality of last mile service.
Celeritas has proven to be a leader in last mile solutions, thanks to its digital platform and continuous training programmes, ensuring efficient delivery and quality service for its customers.
