Shipsy Logistics

                    Last Mile Delivery Software

With services like same-day and next-day delivery, e-commerce players like Amazon and a few others have set new benchmarks. Customers now expect every retailer to deliver their products, especially in metropolitan areas, on the same or at least, next day. However, there are a number of challenges entailed in offering this service. Before we move on to them, let’s dig deeper into same-day delivery.

What is same-day delivery?

As the name suggests, same-day delivery service is delivering goods to the customer on the same-day it was ordered. To make this happen, e-retailers have to ensure that those items are available in the local distribution center, which is close to the customer's location.

How does same-day delivery work?

When a customer places an order online the backend checks for the availability of the product in the distribution center or local store that is close to the customer’s location. Thereafter, the order is dispatched and a driver is assigned for the pick up and delivery of that item.

What are the challenges associated with same-day delivery?

Lack of resources

Here, resources include both the availability of delivery drivers and fleet. Lack of any of these can put additional pressure on the last leg of delivery and hence, increases delivery time or cost.

Manual dispatching and route planning

Manually managing operations like order segregation, order dispatching, route planning, and others can cause unnecessary delays, which directly impacts customer experience.

Poor order visibility and tracking

Having no visibility as well as tracking facility is also one of the biggest obstacles in the way of same-day delivery service. It can directly impact business profitability and customer experience.

Long distance from customers’ location

To deliver orders on the same-day, it is imperative to have multiple fulfillment centers to cover more regions or areas. On the contrary, if the travel distance is more then it is difficult to fulfil the same-day delivery promise.

How to get rid of same-day delivery problems?

In simple words, technology is the only solution that can mitigate risks and eliminate challenges entailed in the same-day delivery service. From technology, we mean integrating last mile delivery software that automates order dispatching, route planning, vehicle and driver allocation, and various other processes to accelerate delivery speed and reduce delivery turnaround time.

Most last mile logistics software are built using technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies rely on data to deliver valuable insights that can help businesses make better decisions and improve business profitability. Moreover, the insights also help in measuring performance and taking actions accordingly.

                    Online Food Delivery Software

The pandemic has definitely taught restaurateurs the significance of building direct relationships with the customers. In fact, it is one of the critical factors that determines the success of a restaurant. That’s the reason why most restaurants are now choosing the D2C or direct-to-consumer model for deliveries.

The D2C model eliminates the need for having a middleman to manage orders and initiate deliveries. There are ample online D2C channels using which restaurants can establish a digital storefront and automates various processes, including order dispatch, route optimization, and order deliveries. It not only allows restaurateurs to have complete control over the deliveries but also renders a plethora of other benefits. Here are three major reasons why restaurateurs as well as other FMCG brands are jumping on board the D2C train-

To communicate and collaborate directly with your customers

No matter if you own a small food joint or a well-established restaurant, building a direct connection with customers always works in your favour. In fact, it would be no mistake to say that it is the key to foster loyalty and business scalability. But restaurants that choose a third-party aggregator to look after deliveries don’t get to connect with their customers. Sometimes, they don't even know who their customers are.

Opting-in for a D2C delivery model is a perfect solution to this challenge. When you connect directly, you would be able to gather customers’ feedback and collect other useful information like customers’ buying behaviour, demographics, and more. This information can help you delight your customers and build a great brand reputation.

To deliver personalized customer experience

Customer experience is one of the biggest factors to any business’s success. With the D2C delivery model, you have complete control over the deliveries and hence, the customer experience. Moreover, you would also be able to collect useful information to understand customers’ choices and serve them accordingly. With direct ordering and delivery channels, you can make better strategies that end up in nothing but profits and customer delight.

To improve business profitability

Connecting with a 3PL aggregator means sharing your profit margins with a middleman. Taking a D2C route eliminates the need for paying commission fees to third-party aggregators. In other words, you get all your profit with retaining customer interaction. Having no middleman also allows you to set offers and discounts in a way to entice more customers.

Role of Technology in D2C Delivery Model

                                  Middle Mile Logistics

The Middle Mile plays a pivotal role in the logistics ecosystem; but it doesn’t get as much attention as that of the first and last mile logistics. But the fact is that even a single discrepancy in this leg of logistics can impact both the last mile delivery costs and customer experience. Hence, it is no less than a necessity for the logistics professionals to focus on middle mile logistics optimization.

What is middle mile delivery?

Middle mile delivery is the process of transporting goods from the warehouse to the distribution or fulfilment center. The delivery process comes after the first mile and before the last mile delivery process.

What is middle mile logistics optimization?

For the smooth, cost-effective, and timely movement of goods between two transition points, middle mile logistics optimization is necessary. Optimizing the processes involved in mid mile delivery paves a clear path for the last mile delivery.

How to optimize middle mile logistics?

Automating middle mile delivery operations is the best way to optimize the second leg of logistics. The simplest way is to integrate middle mile delivery software or smart logistics management solutions. The former will digitize operations involved in the middle mile; however, the latter will streamline complete logistics management.

Logistics software can digitize all three- first, middle, and last mile delivery operations to bring complete operational visibility, reduce dependency on human professionals, and minimize the overall delivery costs. It can also help to improve customer experience to help businesses achieve customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. To choose the best middle mile or logistics management solution, all you have to do is to consider the following tips in mind-

·         The software should be customizable

·         It should be easy to integrate

·         It should be deployed in no time

·         The software provider should offer round the clock support services

·         It should be easily scalable

·         The middle mile software should include all advanced features required to streamline all operations involved in the process

                      Freight Management Software

Cross docking can be defined as the immediate transfer of finished items from the manufacturer/supplier to retailers or customers. It doesn’t require storing items after it leaves the source and before it reaches the destination. It facilitates faster replenishment; goods are received in the inbound dock where a team sorts and consolidates them at the cross-docking terminal and loads them into the next vehicle at the outbound dock.

Cross-docking also requires having visibility and transparency during the transportation of goods and to achieve the same, shippers can rely on freight management software or freight management systems. Such software automates the process of scheduling transportation and offers real-time tracking with a plethora of other features.

It can be broadly classified into pre-distribution and post-distribution categories. In general, there are three methods of cross-docking: continuous, consolidation, and de-consolidation. Let’s read about the advantages of it-

Benefits of Cross Docking

Cross-docking helps businesses to expedite their order fulfilment process, which increases customer satisfaction. Moreover, it also aids in reducing the middle and last-mile shipping costs. Apart from these two, some of the other benefits of cross-docking includes-

Faster shipping

Cross-docking reduces, sometimes even eliminates, the time required for the storage of products, which ensures faster shipping and delivery of products to the destination.

Minimizes shipping costs

COGS or cost of goods sold contributes majorly to the total inventory costs. Along with the costs of the manufacturing or purchase of goods, businesses also have to pay for the first and last-mile shipping carried in-house or via a third-party logistics provider. Cross-docking reduces this cost by eliminating the need for hiring warehouses or 3PL partners for inventory management. They only have to pay for the pick up of products from the source and delivery to the final location.

Minimizes material handling

Material handling requires a dedicated team and infrastructure, which needs a considerable amount of time and investment. Cross-docking minimizes this requirement that contributes to maintaining a high inventory turnover.

                                   First Mile Delivery

It is undeniable that the first mile is an integral part of the logistics and supply chain management system. Any inefficiency during this can impact the entire logistics process, and hence, the customer experience. That’s the reason companies these days are paying equal attention to this leg of logistics. And if you have little or no idea about first mile delivery then this article is exclusively for you. Read on to know about its definition, operations, and challenges.

What is first mile delivery?

First mile logistics is the first leg of logistics and supply chain of a business. It starts as soon as a customer places an order. The prime motive of the first mile is to pick up products from the manufacturer/warehouse and deliver it to the next hub or distribution center for middle mile transportation.   

Key Processes Involved in First Mile Logistics

Pick up of goods

Picking up goods from the manufacturing facility is the first step in the first mile journey. Preparing the order for pick up needs undivided attention as any discrepancy in the process can lead to increase in the total operating costs.

Order consolidation and packaging

Consolidating order and packaging them using suitable material is a part of this process. Once packed, the order is then placed to the dispatch area.

Order dispatch and loading

After completing the documentation part, then comes order dispatching and loading onto the trucks. Thereafter, the truck leaves the facility and heads to the distribution center.

After these steps complete, the goods are further transported for the middle mile or last mile journey.

First Mile Delivery Challenges

Like middle mile and last mile, businesses might face problems with first mile logistics. Here are some of them-

·         Lack of focus on the first mile processes

·         Lack of resources and technology

·         Poor operational visibility

·         Inefficiency in labelling and packaging

·         Inability to track goods

·         Poor customer experience

Ways To Overcome First Mile Delivery Challenges

The best way is to automate first mile delivery management by integrating first mile delivery management software. Such software guarantees complete operational transparency while minimizing the cost of moving goods from one place to another. Besides, it also reduces dependency on human professionals and accelerates the transportation process.

                        First Mile Delivery Software

First, second, and third-mile are three critical aspects of logistics management. While all play an equivalent role, it is the first-mile delivery that often gets overlooked. First mile starts with the very first movement of goods, i.e., from the manufacturing unit to the warehouse. Like the other two legs of logistics, first mile delivery also requires a great deal of attention.

That’s because any inefficiency at this stage can lead to further issues and delays in delivery. First mile process involves packaging and loading goods to the right vehicle, managing the fleet that facilitates the movement, and tracking the movement to ensure timely deliveries. The last-step before the goods reach the warehouse/destination and stored in the right conditions is called first-mile tracking.

It should be in real-time to reduce the chances of inefficiencies or fix problems as soon as they occur. Most businesses that follow traditional practices manage first mile delivery operations manually. Everything, including first-mile optimization and first-mile tracking happens over the call. The process not only consumes a lot of time, but also requires a huge team for looking after every aspect of first-mile delivery. Like the other two stages, first-mile delivery also has a few areas that require a great deal of attention. These are actually the factors that can impact the entire first mile delivery process.

Packaging and labelling

Optimal packaging and labelling of products can reduce chances of errors and also makes sure the right product reaches the destination. Using suitable packaging material also ensures safety of goods during the movement. Suboptimal packaging can affect the quality and condition of goods. Also, improper labelling can lead to wrong delivery of goods or they can go missing before reaching the destination.

Real-time visibility and tracking

Having real-time time visibility on the first mile operations along with the facility to track movement of goods are two important factors that impact first mile delivery. Both can be achieved only with the help of first mile delivery software.

Delivery routes

Well-optimized routes can save a lot of time and speed up the delivery process while reducing the overall delivery costs by minimizing fuel consumption and avoiding idling of engines and other delivery delays. Manually optimizing delivery routes cannot deliver optimum results. That’s because it is difficult to consider all factors like delivery location, delivery time window, route history, weather & traffic conditions, and driver history while planning delivery routes.

                freight management software

An inland container depot plays a pivotal role in the complete shipping process. Generally located near the ports, ICD is a physical facility where shippers can store containers or cargo before transportation. Along with receiving and dispatching of cargo, shippers can also arrange repair and servicing of containers at the premises. 

The Significance of Inland Container Depots

An ICD plays a perfect stop for the cargo to store between transit or before they are in transit. It also facilitates loading and unloading of goods. Like the other facilities, inland container depots also need to be managed properly for the efficient storage of goods. Besides, it also ensures complete safety and security of the goods by providing the conditions required for its storage. Benefits of Inland Container Depots

Port decongestion 

Increasing transportation of goods and trade activities across the world can cause congestion on the ports; an ICD helps in decongesting and de-stressing ports by storing cargos before they are loaded to the other ship. 

Reduces costs

ICDs are equipped with all required equipment and technology that can efficiently facilitate storage of containers. It also provides warehousing and transit services and export and import clearance while reducing the overheads involved in the movement of empty containers. 

Transit points for shipments

A well-managed inland container depot acts as a perfect transit point for shipments. It can also be considered as a hub for consolidated cargo and long-distance cargo. To understand this, let’s take an example, a shipment scheduled to be transported from point A to D via point B and C. Once it reaches the point B, it needs to be loaded to another ship for further transportation; but the ship didn’t arrive at time at B. In such case, an ICD acts as a storage hub for the shipment or the cargo; the container can be stored at this premises until the next ship arrives. 

Manually managing functions at ICD can be a daunting task, therefore, freight forwarders and shippers use freight management software. An automated freight management system facilitates end-to-end management of all freight or cargo-related activities. Moreover, the freight rate management software also ensures complete visibility and transparency during each operation. It also helps prevent demurrages, detention, and various incidental charges that could occur due to delays in completing documentation and other operations. 

                        Middle Mile Logistics

Transportation of goods from a distribution center to the order fulfilment center is known as the middle mile logistics or delivery. Managing this second leg of logistics is crucial for the successful last mile delivery, wherein, the goods are picked from the order fulfilment center and delivered to the end-customers. Efficient middle mile delivery management helps a business get a competitive edge.

Just like the first and last mile delivery, a business can hire an in-house logistics team for handling mid mile operations as well. However, if you choose a third-party logistics partner then you don’t have to bother about it. 3PLs offering end-to-end logistics services cover middle mile optimization as well. If you choose the latter, all you need to get is a third-party logistics aggregator platform that can measure and monitor the performance of your 3PLs.

But, if you are the one with an in-house team for middle mile delivery management, then you can invest in a middle mile software. The software can automate complete mid mile operations to relieve you from the hassle of hiring a huge logistics management team. Moreover, you can have complete and direct control over each operation.

How does a middle mile delivery software work?

Middle or line haul software automates most of the mid mile operations such as informing the drivers and fleet managers about the order pick up, choosing the right delivery vehicle, digitizing print labelling, and more. It also provides the facility to track the order in real-time, which means you can check the exact status of the goods anytime you want.

With such software, you can ensure flawless, timely, and cost-effective movement of goods from one hub to another. Here are some of the features of the software-

Automated shipment sorting and consolidation

The software automatically sorts and consolidates packages on the basis of delivery location, delivery region, and other various factors. It also sends instant alerts or notifications at the time of shipment scanning during bag creation. These notifications help in reducing the number of missed packages.

Real-time visibility

With mobile-based hub operation technology, the software helps with automated parcel optimization while offering complete visibility during the transportation. Besides, it also facilitates mobile-based audits to ensure 100% compliance with the standards and regulations.

Avoid the chances for package damages

With improved package tracking, ETA adherences, vehicle capacity utilization, and live insights, the software helps businesses to ensure damage-free transportation of all goods. Moreover, it also captures excess and shortages via a smart DEPS (Damage.Excess,Priflage,Short) management system.

Benefits of middle mile delivery software

Automating middle mile operations through line haul software renders a number of benefits, including-

·         Reduction in the overall line haul costs

·         Reduction in the number of misrouted deliveries

·         Increase in vehicle capacity utilization

·         Decrease in the requirement of vehicles from the market

·         On-time deliveries

              Freight Rate Management Software

Freight management is a crucial part of every business that involves transportation of goods from one point to another. It includes taking care of the inbound and outbound logistics, communicating and coordinating with carriers, vendors, distributors, shippers, and internal teams to ensure smooth, safe, and timely movement of freight. Over the years, businesses have been following traditional ways or practices for freight management.

However, the increasing volume of goods to be transported from one place to the other has made it necessary to have a digitized system for freight management. Ensuring safe, on-time, and cost-controlled transportation, having real-time tracking and tracing facility on the shipment, and improving customer experience are a few other reasons why businesses are relying on tech-enabled platforms for freight management. Here is how using an automated freight management system can make a difference to your business-

Saves costs

According to various online reports, a shipper can save up to 10% of the initial costs by implementing freight forwarding software. Using a traditional freight management system requires a huge workforce, which adds a lot to the total costs. The software automates most of the operations and hence, minimizes this cost.

Helps with scalability

A business might expand at any time or it could receive a large volume of orders during peak seasons. During such situations, freight software helps with managing freight-related operations without involving huge upfront costs. Also, it minimizes the requirement of hiring a huge workforce during the peak seasons and laying off it when shipping is less.

Offers valuable insights and analytics

For a successful business, it is important to identify inefficiencies and build strategies to improve processes. Doing this manually is not possible. Freight management systems with the insights and analytics feature provide data-based insights that can help a business re-work on their freight management strategies. Using the analytics, logistics managers can also monitor the performance of various carriers, freight forwarders, and others involved in the transportation of goods from one point to another.

Streamlines end-to-end freight management

Such software comes up with a centralized dashboard from where you can manage all the activities like procuring freight rates, communicating with freight forwarders, and more. You can streamline complete freight-related processes.

Offers real-time tracking

The software also allows its users to track freight in real-time. It would help you to know the exact status of your cargo and also check reasons for delay, if any. You can also take immediate action in case of any unpredicted situation or problem that occurs during the movement of goods.

                   Freight Tracking Software

Efficient freight management and freight tracking contributes significantly to a business success. Following the right freight management processes and executing them timely and cost-effectively also paves the path for customer satisfaction. Therefore, businesses are re-building their freight management strategies by integrating automation in their traditional practices. However, customer satisfaction is not the only benefit of a freight management or freight tracking software. It renders numerous of other benefits (these are also the reasons why businesses need to automate their freight tracking processes) that are as follows-

Real-time visibility

Customer expectations have changed; along with excellent shopping experience they also expect an e-commerce store to provide them complete control on the shipping process. And businesses can’t fulfill this requirement with their traditional freight management systems. In this scenario, freight tracking software acts as a boon and offers the business, its customers, and everyone associated with the transportation of freight, complete visibility and transparency on the processes. 

Reduced freight management costs

Freight tracking software automatically sends alerts on each milestone; moreover, it also helps in avoiding delays or taking immediate action/dispatch control teams if required. It also contributes to decreasing incidental charges, detention, and demurrages. All this together contributes to controlling and even minimizing the freight management costs, which is an ultimate goal for any business.

Real-time tracking

Most cargo tracking software offer a centralized dashboard to help businesses track multiple shipments, sent via different carriers, through bill of lading, container number, or booking number. It takes no time to track and trace the exact status of the shipment. 

Improves customer experience

Offering control over the shipping process and ensuring on-time deliveries contributes to improving customer experience. It also assists in improving customer loyalty while building a strong brand reputation. 

Offers insights and analytics

The package tracking system offers useful insights that can help you improve the freight management process and monitor the performance of your carriers. You can easily identify inefficiencies in the freight tracking and management process and fix them permanently. 

How to choose freight or cargo tracking software?

Choosing package tracking software is an important decision for any business. Therefore, you need to consider a number of points before you end up getting a package tracking system or freight management solution. Firstly, make sure the software is tailor-made. Customized software can fit for any business needs as it offers the freedom to choose features as per the requirement. 

Secondly, it is good to opt-in for a cloud-based system that is accessible from any device without any issue. Thirdly, ensure that the freight tracking solution comprises all advanced features required to automate freight tracking operations and provide end-to-end visibility and transparency to all stakeholders. 

                 Package Tracking Software

Depending on the budget, type of goods, delivery location, and delivery time, businesses choose road, rail, air, or ocean as the mode of transportation. Among all these modes, the ocean moves the majority of world’s goods, especially between different countries. One of the reasons behind it is that transporting goods through the ocean is cost-effective. Another consideration besides choosing the mode of transportation is selecting the type of container.

Choosing the right shipping container is important to ensure damage-free transportation. For that, a business must have an idea of different types of containers available. So, let’s check out some of the most commonly used shipping containers-

Tunnel

Tunnel containers facilitate quick and hassle-free loading as well as unloading as they have doors on the front and the back.

Open top and open side

The top of the open top containers can be removed completely to make it perfect for transporting tall machinery, tools, and equipment. Once can choose from 40′ and 20′ containers depending on the requirement.

Open side containers offer a wider room as the side doors can be removed to thoroughly accommodate goods that can’t go through normal doors.

Flat rack

These types of containers come with collapsible sides that makes them ideal for transporting construction items, heavy machines, and other such items.

Dry storage

These are the most common type of containers with roof, doors, and sidewalls.

Reefer or Refrigerated

Reefer containers are mainly used for transporting perishable products such as fruits, frozen food, meat, vegetables, etc in low temperatures. These are temperature regulated shipping containers perfect for the goods that require a temp-controlled environment.

Thermal

Goods that need to be transported in high temperatures require insulated or thermal containers. Thermal containers are used for shipping certain kinds of pharmaceuticals, biological materials, and other items.

Special purpose

These are custom-made containers preferred for transporting weapons, arsons, and other special products.

Half-height

Half-height containers are a perfect choice to move iron ore, stones, coal, and other such items in bulk. As the name suggests, the height of these containers is half of a normal container.

Tanks

Tank containers are made of anti-corrosive material and preferred for shipping liquid material. Such containers ensure complete durability of the liquid being transported.

Drums

Drum containers are made using fibre, steel, plastic, and other lightweight metals. Like the tank containers, drums are also used to transport liquid material.

Cargo storage roll

Cargo storage roll containers are selected to ship goods in stacks. These are easy to fold containers that use thick wire mesh and rollers to ensure damage-free transportation of goods.

Intermediate bulk shift

This type of container is preferred in case of bulk and intermediate shipping of items from one place to another.

Car carriers

This type of container is used to ship cars and other vehicles from one place to another, usually for a long distance.

Swap bodies

Comes with a convertible top, such type of containers is only preferred for road and rail transportations.

Logistics Management Software

Logistics plays a pivotal role in the success of any business. It ensures smooth movement of goods in a timely and cost-controlled manner. Managing logistics operations with logistics software can help any business to save time, cost, and effort. The only thing that requires a great deal of attention is getting the best logistics company software. To do so, you should have an understanding of the functionalities and key features of the software. And we are going to help you with that Functionalities of the best logistics software These are the functionalities you have to look for in logistics tracking system software-

Order management

Manual management of orders can be a time-consuming process. Also, it requires huge resources and investment to take care of inventory modification, order segregation, documentation, AWB generation, label printing, and other related tasks. The software for logistics management can automate all these operations to save time, cost, and effort. The automated order management functionality can also help you to manage orders from multiple channels in place.

     2. Warehouse and inventory management

The functionality helps in updating and managing inventory every time an order is placed and pickup is done. Managing inventory includes keeping track of purchase orders, quantities left and more. Assistance related to picking and packaging or items comes under warehouse management. The logistics software you choose should have this functionality to maintain storage details, inventory transfer, and other information.

     3.Transportation management

Planning and optimizing the movement of goods comes under this. Instead of purchasing a separate transportation management software, you can look out for this functionality in the logistics software itself. Transportation also includes managing fleets and utilizing their capacity to the fullest.

     4. Analytics and reports

The software should also provide insights to help you improve your processes, cut down the logistics cost, save time, and improve customer experience. The functionality can also help you build better business strategies and forecast customers’ demands and understand their behaviour.   

     5. Route management

The software should automate route planning and optimization to efficiently optimize delivery routes and increase deliveries per vehicle without need for additional resources. It would be good if it offers dynamic route planning and multi-stop route planning.

    6. Driver management

The functionality will help you to measure the performance of all your drivers. Also, it will let you know the updated status of the order.

    7. Customer management

Managing end-customers and providing them the convenience to check delivery ETA, reschedule deliveries, and submit delivery feedback should be there in the logistics system software.

By now, you must be having an idea of logistics software and its potential. To get the one with all these functionalities, you can reach out to Shipsy. Its software comes up with top-notch features, including-

Automated order management

Vehicle capacity utilization

Auto assigning orders to drivers and vehicles

Offering loading and unloading sequence

Real-time tracking

Digitized route optimization

Customer feedback collection

Dedicated driver app

Customer feedback collection

Check delivery ETA

Best Logistics Software

As per an online research, 65% of the retailers have said that late or delayed deliveries caused a spike in their overall delivery budget. It also directly impacted customer experience and brand reputation. It is quite simple no consumer would want to shop again from a store with which they had a poor delivery experience. Considering these and umpteen other facts available on the web, it is crystal clear that on-time delivery plays a pivotal role in achieving customer satisfaction. Also, it improves brand loyalty, brand reputation, and customer retention rate.

So why not pay attention to the delivery management process and make it smooth, streamlined, and transparent using logistics management software. Wondering how to do that? We are going to explain that later in this article. What is important to understand first is the reasons that lead to delay in deliveries. Let’s check them out-

1. Customer unavailability

Unavailability of the customer at the delivery location, without notifying the delivery agent or rescheduling it in their application, can create miscommunication and affect delivery time. That’s because a delivery agent will have to re-attempt the delivery, if the customer is unavailable at the time of delivery. After multiple failed attempts, the parcel will be returned to the origin.

2. Incorrect or incomplete addresses

The driver would not be able to find the location without having a proper address. It will not only impact the cost of delivery but also lead to wastage of your driver’s efforts.

3. Peak delivery times

Delivery delays are a common thing during the sale or festive seasons, when the order volume is higher than the normal times. This could be due to limited resources such as shortage of drivers and vehicles, poor logistics operations, or any other reason. Also, delay in one order can also impact the delivery time of all other orders that are being delivered through the same vehicle.

4.Weather and traffic conditions

Extreme weather conditions and traffic congestion or diversions is something one cannot predict beforehand. And the occurrence of such a situation can increase driving time and thus, delay in order deliveries. It can also lead to idling of engines, frequent maintenance of vehicles, increased fuel consumption and transportation cost.

5. Lack of tracking

Inability to track packages during their delivery journey can cause damage, delays, and loss of shipment. While tracking the packages and the vehicle can help in fixing out the problems that occur on the delivery route. For example, if a vehicle suddenly breaks down or in case of any road accident, the team tracking it can send an alternate.

6. Manual management of logistics or delivery operations

It is one of the biggest reasons behind failure of timely deliveries. Manually managing delivery operations sounds good when you have to deal with a limited number of orders. As your business grows, it demands every logistics process to be accomplished on time and with the utmost accuracy. You cannot afford to make mistakes in any of the logistics processes. Besides, manual management also requires a significant amount of cost, time, and effort. You won’t be able to offer your customers same-day or next-day delivery services.

How to overcome delivery delays?

To overcome all the problems that lead to delay in deliveries, you can get software for logistics management . Logistics company software can streamline the end-to-end delivery process and bring transparency to all the operations. By automating the majority of the delivery operations, such as order segregation, order allocation, vehicle capacity utilization, route planning and optimization, order tracking, customer feedback collection, generating delivery ETAs, and more, the logistics tracking system software can render a plethora of benefits to your business.

Transport Software

The process of managing commercial vehicles, particularly the one you use for the transportation of goods, is known as fleet management. Managing fleet efficiently is the need of both- business with in-house logistics & transport management teams and businesses that render logistics & transportation management services to e-commerce, manufacturing, and other industries.

Fleet management can be done either by using fleet management software or transportation management software. The former will manage only the fleet, while the latter offers end-to-end management of complete transportation operations. Basically, fleet management helps to utilize every vehicle’s capacity, ensure timely delivery of products, track vehicles in real-time, improve road safety, monitor driver’s performance, and mitigate risks.

How does transport software help with fleet management?

Transport management software comes up with vehicle capacity utilization and automated route planning and optimization features. Besides, the software automatically finds delivery vehicles and drivers based on the type of goods, route history, delivery location, and other factors. It also offers a complete loading and unloading sequence to save the driver's efforts and time while assuring on-time delivery. Here are some of the other benefits transport management solutions render from the perspective of managing fleet-

Vehicle capacity utilization

As mentioned earlier, vehicle capacity utilization prevents wastage of resources and minimizes the need for hiring more vehicles from the market. It is obvious when your delivery vehicles can fulfill the delivery requirements, why would you get more. Transport software makes it possible with primary and secondary trip planning.

Real-time vehicle tracking

Tracking vehicles in real-time helps to know the updated status of the order. Also, it helps the vendors to send the backup or control team in case of an unforeseen situation like accident or vehicle breakdown. Having up-to-date status of an order also contributes to minimizing calls to your customer support center.

Real-time alerts and updates

The best transport software comes up with this feature that sends auto alerts to vendors or drivers or end-customers. This maintains operational transparency and brings customer satisfaction. Riders can get alerts about reverse pickups while already in that region. Vendors can get alerts about the vehicle breakdowns or status of each order. End-customers can get updates about any delay or estimated ETA of the delivery.

Communication with the drivers

Real-time communication with drivers is necessary to get the updates on the delivery or to fix any issue that could have occurred while they are on the road. Transport management software makes it possible by providing a dedicated driver application. It also sends a tracking link to the end-customers using which they can get the updated status of the driver and connect with them in case of any delivery-related issues.

Measuring driver’s performance

Most of the transport software comes up with an analytics and reports feature to help its users to get useful insights to measure drivers’ performance. Besides, you can also check successful, unsuccessful, and missed deliveries.

Digitized route planning

Transport software offers a digitized route planning and optimization feature to get the most efficient delivery routes considering delivery location, delivery time window, route history, road restrictions, real-time traffic and weather conditions, and other factors. It helps in reducing fuel consumption & delivery cost, improving driver safety, and increasing customer satisfaction.

Logistics Management Software

As per an online report, around 61% of the companies switched all or some of their workload to the cloud in 2020 and this number is expected to be doubled in the coming years. Using cloud-based software eliminates the need for having in-house infrastructure and resources to manage logistics operations. Such software is delivered and used over the network; you can access it anywhere anytime from any device. Compared to on-premises logistics software, cloud-based logistics software solutions render a plethora of benefits and some of them have been listed here. Have a look-

Quick deployment

Designing, development, testing, and deployment of an on-premises software might take months or even years. But, this isn't the same in case of cloud-based logistics system software. Developers can easily implement new features without any hardware restrictions. Once you provide your specific business needs to a SaaS-based logistics software provider, such as Shipsy, it doesn’t take much time to customise and then deploy the software.

Auto software upgrades and updates

Software upgrades and updates are necessary to integrate new features, improve user experience, and fix bugs. This can be done quite easily in case of cloud solutions. Also, it is the total responsibility of your logistics software provider to update and upgrade the software, as and when required.

Reduced cost

Having a cloud-based logistics solution helps you to save a significant amount of money that would otherwise be spent on purchasing an on-premises solution and resources to run that efficiently. Besides, you don’t even need big IT teams to manage that infrastructure required for the logistics software management. Opting-in for a SaaS-based logistics system software also reduces the cost associated with downtime.

Data security

Data security is one of the prime concerns of the organization that chooses a logistics management solution for their business. Cloud-based solutions offer granular-level security features like authentication, encryption, and access control, which restrict the access of software and use of data to the authorized person only.

Accessibility

Today’s logistics management systems require real-time tracking and complete operational transparency to fix an issue right when it occurs. This raises the demand for having software that can be accessed from anywhere on any device. With cloud-based logistics management software, you have that advantage.

Scalability

Apart from accessibility, scalability is also an important feature of logistics software. As your business grows, you need a system that is capable of handling that extra load and functioning without any issue. With cloud-based software for logistics management, you can get this feature at no extra cost.

    Logistics Management Software

There is no denying that the e-commerce industry is booming at an unprecedented rate. Businesses that were used to follow traditional logistics management ways or dependent on the in-house logistics teams are now leaning towards tech-enabled software or choosing courier companies. That's one of the biggest reasons behind the rising demand for the software for logistics management .

Logistics software or logistics management software not only streamlines end-to-end delivery operations but it also helps in reducing the overall delivery cost, improving customer experience, and minimizing the need for resources. The software not only benefits vendors and end-customers but also the carriers of the goods, i.e., delivery agents or drivers. Most of the logistics software solutions

come up with a dedicated driver application, which helps the delivery person with efficient trip management. It also streamlines the entire process of pick-ups and deliveries, which yields the following benefits-

On-time deliveries

Improved driver’s productivity

Reduced driving hours

Increased number of trips per day

Customer satisfaction

Reduced fuel cost

How does logistics system software simplify and streamline the delivery processes for your drivers?

The core responsibilities of delivery drivers is to ensure smooth, safe, and timely movement of goods from manufacturing unit to the warehouse, warehouse to the hub, and hub to the customer’s destination. To enable this movement, the product should be ready for the pick-up (with AWB bills and labels), delivery routes should be optimized, and delivery vehicle’s capacity should be used completely. Now, achieving all these goals merely with manpower requires a lot of time, effort, and money.

The best logistics company software comes up with a dedicated driver application that makes it easy for the drivers to get notifications about the pickups, get the optimized delivery routes, communicate with the vendors & end-customers, and use other features that contribute to the efficient trip management. Let’s read all this in detail-

Trip management Driver application helps in complete trip management. It gives drivers the control over the delivery processes.

Instant notifications A driver application also assists drivers to get instant notifications about the pickups or delivery address change. They can also get alerts if a customer raises a return request and a driver is delivering another order in the nearby location. They can also complete the reverse pickup request.

Optimized delivery routesDriver app shows optimized delivery routes by following which drivers can ensure smooth deliveries. They can also get new routes in case of sudden traffic jams, road accidents, or cancellation of any order.

COD remittance calculation Having a driver application also helps drivers to calculate COD payments without any hassle. They can just enter the details of the payment and the hub manager or vendor can see it immediately.

Communication with end-customers and vendorsA driver app facilitates clear and concise communication between drivers & end-customers and drivers & vendors. The former is required when the driver needs additional information about the delivery address or to confirm customer’s availability at the time of delivery. The latter is required in case of vehicle breakdown or any other delivery-related issue. The vendor can send a backup team to fix the problem right when it occurs.

Uploading digitized PODDriver app makes it easy to collect and upload digitized proof of delivery to facilitate contactless delivery, which is the new norm these days.

Shipsy’s logistics tracking system software or logistics software come up with a built-in driver application that includes all the aforementioned features. Moreover, it’s SaaS-based, which means it doesn’t take much time for the integration or deployment. And, you can access from any device any location. Why wait? Reach out to one of the Shipsy’s professionals today, share your specific business requirements, and get customized

Best Logistics Software