As e commerce grows, more individuals and brands demand the services of logistics and delivery businesses. However, ecommerce is the only actor influencing this industry. Technological innovations are driving change in many industries, including the logistics industry.
Mobile technology also impacts the logistics and delivery industry, transforming systems and processes. Want to know how? This article explores how mobile technology is reshaping logistics and delivery to help you leverage trends and opportunities.
Improving Driver Communication
Mobile technology and applications improve communication between dispatchers and drivers. They also support instantaneous communication between all parties in the delivery chain using messaging, voice calls, and push notification features.
These technologies also facilitate seamless updates on delivery schedules, address changes or any unexpected issues that may arise. Drivers can use mobile apps to update customers on arrival time and potential delays.
Delivery companies can also customize mobile apps to show drivers delivery instructions and provide support on the go. It may also contain sections for incident reporting to ensure timely feedback from drivers.
Enhancing Proof of Delivery
Mobile technology has transformed logistics and delivery by eliminating traditional proof of delivery, which requires paper and a wet signature. With mobile technology, proof of delivery is now captured using dedicated apps. These apps collect electronic signatures, photos, and other relevant data at delivery.
Mobile applications used for proof of delivery improve the company’s and customers’ verification of deliveries. Delivery data captured on mobile devices and applications easily integrates with the company’s logistics management system, streamlining reporting and operations.
This method benefits logistics and delivery businesses in many ways. It enables real-time insight into delivery progress, improves operational visibility, and eliminates the cost of paper-based proof of delivery systems.
Enabling Real-Time Tracking
Many logistics and delivery businesses use GPS-enabled devices on delivery vehicles to facilitate continuous monitoring of package location. This provides visibility for customers and the logistics providers about the delivery status.
Some companies develop apps to allow customers to track their deliveries in real time and receive updates on estimated delivery times and locations, improving customer experience and satisfaction.
Delivery companies can also provide real-time asset tracking by integrating IoT sensors and attaching them to shipments. This allows them to monitor the temperature and other critical parameters to ensure cargo integrity throughout the delivery. Mobile technology ensures this data is available to all parties, from customers to delivery managers.
Improving Inventory Management
Mobile technology has significantly improved inventory management in the logistics and delivery industry. It enables real-time data access, allowing warehouse staff to update inventory levels instantly by scanning barcodes on mobile devices.
This technology also supports visibility across the supply chain and facilitates seamless sharing of inventory data between warehouses, distributors, and suppliers. This allows all parties to know the stock level at all times and note changes instantaneously.
Mobile technology eliminates manual data entry, significantly reducing errors in inventory management. Increased data accuracy and real-time inventory updates allow faster order fulfillment and customer deliveries.
Top logistics and delivery businesses use award winning fleet management solutions to enjoy these industry trends and grow their business.
Endnote
Mobile technology is one of the many factors reshaping the logistics and delivery industry today. It is revolutionizing this industry by improving driver communication, enhancing proof of delivery, enabling real-time tracking, and improving inventory management.
