Archive for the
‘Newsletter’ Category

There has been constant pressure on the retailers to improve the last-mile fulfillment experience of their customers. According to a recent article published by Deloitte, the value of same-day delivery sales has grown significantly from practically zero in 2013 to over four billion dollars in 2018. Also, more than 50% of the customers are willing to pay for it. This has pushed close to 65% of retailers to offer same-day delivery by investing in solutions that bring down the time to deliver to a customer.

The biggest challenge that the retailers face in last-mile deliveries is delivery efficiency. Since it constitutes a big part of the overall shipping cost, any drawbacks in the last mile delivery can adversely affect the businesses. Here are four ways you can improve the entire delivery process:

OPTIMIZE DELIVERY ROUTES

The cost of delivery is directly related to the distance between the pick-up and drop points. Therefore, the delivery routes should be constantly optimized to prevent any unnecessary delays. The drivers should be kept aware of real-time scenarios like traffic, weather, construction, and other factors with the help of courier optimization platforms. With courier and dispatch software and GPS tracking, route optimization will bring down the shipping costs, says an article published by Key Software Systems.

ENCOURAGE AUTOMATION

According to an article published by PricewaterhouseCoopers in 2016, the delivery process can be improved and automated with the help of innovations like autonomous vehicles or delivery drones. Besides these radical solutions, other efficient technologies like augmented reality solutions can be used to give drivers more information about their environment and the packages still on board. Thus, automation has the potential to reshape the workforce in this industry.

OFFER MULTIPLE DELIVERY OPTIONS

Some customers might prefer delivery of their parcel at a convenient time over faster delivery. Although the demand for same-day deliveries is on the rise, the customers should still be offered multiple delivery options. It will not only enhance the customer experience but will also reduce your last-mile delivery costs as you can schedule the delivery economically that matches the time slot of the customer.

ENSURE REVERSE LOGISTICS

It is important to have a proper returns management plan in place to minimize the costs of product returns. It will reduce the capital tied into inventory and will enhance the overall transparency of the supply chain.

For retailers who wish to maintain their dominance in the market, the last-mile delivery process should be consistently upgraded with the advancement in technologies. Also, some third-party logistics providers can be employed to save both time and money that can be utilized for scaling up the business. Outsourcing some aspects of last-mile delivery such as delivery software, warehouse space, transportation, and manpower can bring down the costs and improve the overall delivery process.

The courier industry has been consistently evolving to match up with the growing demand and optimize service delivery and support. According to recent data published by Statista, the Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP) market in North America is estimated to be around 90 billion euros in 2020. It is also expected that we will witness a compound annual growth rate of five percent between 2015 and 2025.

With recent technological advancements, there has been a rise in the expectations of the customers as well. However, the key aspects of the courier industry have still been more or less the same.  Speed, Automation, and Accuracy are as important as ever. That is why businesses are now relying on Courier Optimization Platforms to optimize their services and ensure optimum satisfaction to the customers.

SPEED OF PLATFORM

The first thing users expect from this platform is to optimize the speed of the entire process. The dynamic route optimization through such a platform helps the drivers prevent delays. It also keeps them updated on real-time scenarios like traffic, weather, construction, and other factors. It makes the entire process efficient and speeds up the delivery at each step, says an article published by Key Software Systems.

AUTOMATION

A Courier Optimization Platform improves and automates most of the courier process and requires little or no human intervention. It allows businesses to have complete visibility over their operations. Right from scheduling the pick-up to real-time reporting on the status of the delivery, the entire procedure can be handled smoothly with constant supervision at each step. Not only this automation makes the entire process more efficient, but it also makes it cost-effective in the long run.

ACCURACY IN COURIER PLATFORM

Another important factor that attracts the users towards Courier Optimization Platforms is the accuracy. With GPS tracking, businesses keep their customers updated on the ETA of their courier. They also restrict unauthorized stops and longer-than-planned times to reach a specific destination and improve the accuracy of the entire process.

According to a report published by McKinsey in 2018, customers are becoming increasingly sophisticated with their demands and almost 20% to 25% of them might opt for same-day or instant delivery if it were available at low prices. Additionally, automation can significantly increase the efficiency of this process. So, the courier optimization service providers will have to constantly innovate and enhance the customer experiences for their users.

Ecommerce has seen astronomical growth in the past few years. With this, the logistics and courier market has been growing at a phenomenal pace. The courier, express, and parcel market is predicted to grow at a 8-10% CAGR, reaching a value of $400 billion by 2024, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence.

But delivery volume is not the only thing that has increased in recent times. The expectations of customers from deliveries are also rising. An increasing number of customers expect single day and even same day deliveries, according to a blog by Key Software Systems. Plus, the failure to make these fast deliveries on time can have serious consequences. In fact, almost 13% of customers say they will not order again from a store if the delivery is late, according to a survey by Oracle.

This means that last mile deliveries, the most complex and cost intensive component of the delivery mechanism, is under great stress. For easing this stress, automation of last mile deliveries is being used by many logistics companies. Here are some of the main automated technologies being considered:

WHEELED ROBOTS

Wheeled robots are among the simpler options. Unlike autonomous vehicles, they can operate on the sidewalks. This also means that they do not require understanding of a large number of traffic rules. Another advantage is that there are not many regulatory compulsions because of its slow speed. They can be used in college campuses and other areas where the delivery method is by bicycle or on foot.

DRONE VEHICLES

Drone delivery is no longer a dream. Amazon has already launched its drone delivery service, called Prime Air. Drones can significantly reduce delivery time. Prime Air promises deliveries in 30 minutes or loss. This can generate a lot more impulse buys from customers. The main hinderance for drone delivery seems to be regulations. They are considered dangerous in certain areas. Plus, many consider them invasive to privacy.

AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Self-driving vehicles is another potential option for deliveries. In this, electrically powered on-road vans can be used to transport the packages. That’s not all. Autonomous robots are also being developed to take the packages from the vehicle to the doorstep. A great example of this is Digit, a 2-legged robot engineered by Agility Robotics. It can walk on uneven terrain, go up and down on stairs, and lift packages weighing up to 40 pounds.

Apart from these, multiple automated vehicles can be used together. Drones can be used along with automated on-road vans to improve their range. With the way technology is advancing, the possibilities are endless.

In this ecommerce-driven era, the volume of deliveries is rising at a tremendous rate. In fact, between 2010 and 2019, the size of the global courier, parcel, and express market grew from $157 billion to $330.34 billion, according to data published by Statista. Along with it, customers want their deliveries faster and need more reliability. This is what a dispatch software makes possible for courier companies. A courier dispatch software helps improve the efficiency of the last mile deliveries of packages, which is the most complex and expensive part of the complete logistics.

Here are some ways you can benefit from a courier dispatch software:

DETAILED REPORTING

A courier software also offers detailed reports based on real time and historic data, according to an article by Key Software Systems. The data can be on employee performance, delivery times, costs, and more. Along with customer feedback, these reports can be used to make improvements and even identify trends. The reports can be easily viewed on smartphones or tablets.

ROUTE OPTIMIZATION

A courier dispatch software can help you find the most optimal route using GPS technology. Advanced dispatch software considers things like road blockages, traffic density, and even the other stops the driver is required to make. With this, companies can make deliveries faster. This is a great advantage. Its importance can be seen from the fact that 72% of Amazon Prime users consider unlimited free delivery as the biggest benefit of the service, according to a survey by PwC.

BETTER COMMUNICATION

Gone are the days when customers were satisfied with just knowing the expected date of deliveries. They want to be able to track their packages and know about all the movements. This is what a courier dispatch software offers. With this, customers can know where their package is at all times. This feature also reduces failed deliveries because of the unavailability of the customer.

Apart from these, a courier dispatch software can generate detailed reports, helping reduce manual effort. These reports can be shared with various departments and personnel involved to a build cohesive team.

The global logistics and supply chain market size is expected to grow from $2,734 billion in 2020 to $3,215 billion in 2021, according to a report by MarketsandMarkets Research. Although the growth rate is about 10%-15% lower than the pre-COVID estimates, the market is still expected to grow at a 17.6% YOY rate. This highlights that even in this difficult environment, courier services remain extremely important.
Delivery platform software can help companies save precious time and resources, while staying organized. Here are some of the ways such software can help.

IMPROVED COMMUNICATION

Courier platforms have automated synchronization of dispatch to dispatch communications systems. This means that each of the partner companies can gain access to all the important information, such as scan history and signatures. This also removes the need for time consuming emails as well as expensive phone calls and faxes.

BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE

Regardless of the location of the package, you can get shipment details within seconds with advanced delivery and optimization software, according to experts at Key Software Systems. With this, companies can efficiently and quickly respond to all customer queries.
Additionally, customers can get information about their packages, such as its location and expected time of delivery. This removes the need for interaction with a company representative in many cases. So that is one less thing you need to worry about, making organization easier. Plus, with better customer service, you get more repeat customers. After all, 92% of the customers say that they would stop purchasing from a company after 3 or less bad customer service experiences, according to a survey by Gladly.

ROBUST ANALYTICS

In day-to-day operations, courier companies generate massive amounts of data, which generally goes to waste. But with courier software, this data can be used for improving organizational efficiency. The software provides access to ETAs, costs, reporting, contactless delivery, optimization and so much more. This helps companies in identifying areas of improvement as well as existing and emerging trends.

ENHANCED REPORTING

Delivery and Optimization software also provides multiple reports. The software can prepare detailed and highly accurate reports, according to your preference. These can then be shared across different locations, departments and personnel in the network. Plus, you would not have to store a huge number of records and other files of the deliveries. All the details about the performance and progress of the business would be stored in the system.

Apart from these, courier software also helps in organizing optimized route requirements, with auto or assisted dispatch. Easily creating the fastest routes and allocating them to the best driver for the job.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for the global economy, and the courier industry hasn’t been spared either, despite the move to online shopping and doorstep delivery. Before the pandemic, the global courier and delivery services industry was projected to grow at 3.7% in 2020, according to a report by IBISWorld. But with the pandemic-induced disruption to the global supply chains, manufacturing and consumer spending, the industry is expected to contract by 4.1%.

Although there has been an increase in demand from the household markets, this has been unable to cover for the decline in the commercial segments. Additionally, global operators are facing lower delivery density, increased average daily miles and higher delivery stops. All this has become a major hindrance to profits.

In such a difficult environment, it is vital to have the right tools to improve productivity. One of the most helpful products for this is cutting-edge Delivery Performance and Optimization software for your company. But you cannot just go with any courier software. It is crucial to choose an accurate and fast one. Here are some of the ways the best fast courier software can help you.

FASTER DELIVERIES

Around 13% of the consumers do not order again from a place, if their delivery was late, according to a consumer study by Oracle Retail. Consumers don’t just want their shipments on time, they want them before time. Gone are the days when consumers would be willing to wait for a whole week for their deliveries. These days, it is common for people to expect one-day delivery, if not same day delivery.

Reliable delivery software can be incredibly helpful in this. Such software is enabled with a GPS system, which can optimize and automate routes to ensure the fastest route to the destination, according to an article by Key Software Systems. When creating the route, it considers traffic levels, road blockages and even the other deliveries that need to be completed by the same vehicle.

COST REDUCTION

Using fast and efficient courier software, you would be able to reduce the amount of human effort required in making reports. Detailed and accurate reports can be easily generated by the software. These can then be shared among all the stakeholders. This reduces the need for more employees, while saving time for existing ones. Even costly phone calls and faxes can be eliminated with these reports.

Apart from these, accurate delivery performance and optimization software can provide you precise insights into delivery and employee performance. You can even compare the analytics over time to know about your progress.

In 2019, the global courier services market was valued at around $341 billion, according to a report by 360 Markets Update. But like most other industries, the courier industry has also been reeling under the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The global disruption in manufacturing and supply chains has meant that the revenue growth expectations for the industry have changed from growth of 3.7% to a decline of 4.1% in 2020, according to a report by IBIS World.

In such difficult times, courier companies are doing everything they can to cut costs. One of the best ways to achieve this, without productivity suffering, is by using delivery software. Here are some of the ways such software can lower your costs.

AUTOMATED COMMUNICATION

Real-time dispatch can be synchronized using service dispatch software, according to experts at Key Software Systems. This allows each of the partner companies to be aware of time sensitive critical information such, as scan history and signatures. With this, the need for time consuming emails as well as costly faxes and phone calls can be eliminated.

OPTIMIZATION

Courier dispatch software utilizes GPS technology to find the best possible route. It takes into consideration any roadblocks, heavy traffic and stops the driver needs to make. With route optimization, you can save on fuel that would otherwise be used for each delivery.

In addition, with an optimized route, you would be able to make faster deliveries. This is a major benefit in today’s age of same day delivery. After all, 13% of customers say that they would not like to order again from the same place if their delivery is late, according to a survey by Oracle.

REPORTING

Delivery software also comes with a built-in report writer. You can easily view reports on driver performance, activity and delivery. You can even compare reports from different time periods and know about the progress. This makes identifying issues early, that could otherwise end up increasing costs.

Apart from these, dispatch software can help with proper order entry. This helps in efficient organization of dispatch and delivery.

Using a delivery management software to offer last mile delivery to customers is a good way to improve business operations. Since the top software programs have a comprehensive set of tools to boost efficiency, there are multiple advantages. These are some examples.

IMPROVE HANDLING AND TRANSPORT EFFICIENCY

Lund University research shows that using last mile fulfillment and transport can improve order handling efficiency. This improved efficiency helps retailers and logistics providers align their goals better. With the tools of a software program that assists with automation, and route optimization, there are even more opportunities for improving efficiency.

MEET DEMANDS QUICKER

Today, more customers want on-demand services. While companies still have fixed delivery schedules and routes for some customers, they must be able to meet short-notice demand if they want to be a top competitor. To meet that heightened demand, companies need access to the right drivers for the right routes and times. Trying to find available drivers and delegate assignments in the most efficient manner can be a challenging and time-consuming task. However, with the innovations of automation and optimization, users can easily match drivers, routes and times for on-demand services.

ACCESS USEFUL DATA

One of the most important parts of improving operational efficiency today is utilizing data. With a software program, companies have access to information about delivery times, costs and much more. They can also incorporate customer feedback to identify trends and areas for improvement. The data from a comprehensive software program reveals information that helps with costs and savings analyses. A Complexity journal article showed how last mile delivery programs may be set up to consider data about availability, time windows, capacity, among other constraints, and still produce more efficient delivery solutions for B2B sellers and buyers.

IMPROVE CUSTOMER COMMUNICATION

In the past, commercial customers were mainly concerned with receiving a tracking number. Today, many customers who want prompt delivery that warrants last mile service, want real-time data instead of tracking logs that are periodically updated with recent scans. With a software program that has final mile carrier tracking, it is possible to generate real-time tracking information for deliveries. In addition to boosting efficiency, this benefit helps build satisfaction that leads to stronger customer loyalty.

Business owners may find other advantages of last mile delivery software that enhance operations. While using it through a software program improves efficiency, we recommend specific ways to help optimize important features as well. Our all-in-one solution offers multiple customization options and valuable tools to help users get the most out of our last mile delivery software.

The majority of people today value speed in fulfillment and delivery. Instead of being willing to wait for packages and papers to arrive in the next week or two, managers and workers want items in two days or less with many willing to pay extra for same-day courier services. Only 60% of consumers are willing to wait over five days for a delivery according to a 2016 survey. An even more recent survey shows that 13% of consumers will not order from a company again if a shipment is late.

With shipment delivery times being so important, you may be wondering what you can do to ensure that your deliveries arrive quickly, on time and in one piece. With courier delivery software, you can schedule your deliveries, see exactly where your packages are and understand how fast your delivery driver is moving on his route. This knowledge can help you keep customers happy while reducing delays. Courier delivery software is particularly important for businesses in the following industry sectors.

PRINTERS

Printers know the importance of getting vital documents to individuals on time. Whether it is a document that needs to be signed by a certain date or printed conference brochures or wedding invitations, printed materials must go out on the correct day. When printers use courier software systems, they can rest assured that documents are delivered on time.

HEALTH CARE FACILITIES

Many health care facilities routinely send out lab work that must be delivered by hand. Others send prescription medications and health care equipment to patients. Getting items delivered on time is not only convenient in this sector but also life-saving in some situations. Courier software ensures prompt delivery in the right conditions.

LAW FIRMS

Much like printers, law firms often have documents they deliver via courier services to their clients. Whether used for court case preparations, document signatures or document filing at court, courier services backed by last mile delivery software bring peace of mind and can even save plenty of money.

FOOD PREPARATION BUSINESSES

Many appreciate locally grown food these days and will pay a premium to order food or go out to eat at restaurants that prioritize this. However, local foods must be delivered on time to ensure freshness and the best taste. Fresh foods will have customers coming back for more and will secure a great reputation for a restaurant. Courier software keeps deliveries on track while ensuring that food remains properly chilled and preserved.

SMALL RETAIL BUSINESSES

Small businesses often do not have access to the fast delivery systems that large companies use. By relying on couriers and courier software, they can get items to customers quickly, winning dedicated customers for life. Courier delivery software is important for home-based businesses as well as neighborhood shops that deliver locally or across the country.

Having a courier software system in place, such as Xcelerator from Key Software Systems, can help you keep deliveries of all shapes and sizes on track while improving your approval rating among customers.

To stay ahead in the global race, strategic business changes are essential for courier companies. This is what can help gain a competitive advantage by enabling quicker deliveries, while reducing overall cost. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the global logistics market is expected to witness year-on-year growth of almost 18%, rising from a value of $2,734 billion in 2020 to $3,215 billion 2021, according to figures released by MarketsandMarkets Research. This only highlights the huge demand for courier services across the world, while underlining the need to streamline the entire delivery process, with a focus on last mile delivery.

Courier software comes to the rescue against this backdrop, offering automated dispatching, shipment tracking and a mobile interface to help courier businesses enhance the efficiency of their operations, saving valuable time and resources, according to an article by Key Software Systems. To improve the software’s performance, certain target areas might require an upgrade. So, what are the tell-tale signs that you need this upgrade? Take a look at the top three signs.

1. OUTDATED DATA

Time-intensive, outdated technologies can hold your profits back. If the supply chain is working on old data, chances are that it is wasting resources, effort and time. To improve profitability, switch to the latest version of the software. This will enable all members to work on the same data, with access to new and improved features to optimize deliveries. You can use real-time metrics to implement best-fit solutions.

2. LACKING PROMPTNESS

If you are using the basic version, you are likely to miss out on several advanced features. For example, hourly updates or better visibility to streamline operations might not be available. This can reduce efficiency and put a dent in customer satisfaction too. Your staff might have to perform certain tasks manually, increasing the risk of errors. Therefore, to optimize resources, make sure to upgrade for speed, accuracy and accountability.

3. LESS FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS

The purchasing software must sync properly with the delivery system and communicate well with the warehouse managers through a holistic approach, according to an article on Business.org. It should be able to offer workable solutions, including route optimization, all services supporting dispatch, auto allocation and a user-friendly booking portal. If these technologies are missing or are underperforming, it is high time you updated the software. It will aid in seamless operations for both international and domestic deliveries.

The courier dispatch software can have an enormous impact on your business. If operations are becoming costlier, more time consuming and inefficient, do not hesitate to switch to a market-leading courier dispatch and logistics software solution. This will ensure operational improvements, while reducing resource load.