Comprehensive Guide to Last-Mile Carrier Tracking

In today’s fast-growing world, customers demand speed, accuracy, and transparency when it comes to receiving their purchases. Industry experts expect these evolving customer expectations to continue expanding in the years to come. 

With the implementation of last-mile carrier tracking systems, the customer’s anxiety associated with waiting for a package has become a thing of the past. 

These systems provide real-time updates and detailed tracking information, ensuring that customers know exactly where their packages are and when they will arrive.

As logistics and delivery businesses strive to meet growing consumer demands, last-mile carrier tracking is a crucial component in delivering exceptional service and building customer trust.

Let’s delve deep into the challenges of last-mile carrier tracking, exploring how it works, its benefits for businesses and customers, and the latest technological advancements driving its evolution.

Understanding Last Mile Carriers

Definition and Key Roles

Last-mile carriers are logistics operators that provide fast and accurate shipping of products from the shipping hub to the end customers’ doorstep. These are mostly third-party logistics companies that help meet customer expectations through exceptional delivery services. Final mile delivery remains one of the most important parts of the delivery process.

Some of the most popular last-mile carriers or best last-mile delivery companies in the United States are FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL, and other regional companies offering logistics services.

Industry Examples and Use Cases

The following are the use cases of last-mile carrier tracking. 

1. Amazon: Amazon is a global e-commerce giant that last-mile delivery tracking to help customers stay updated on package statuses. It has developed in-house logistics and utilizes advanced GPS tracking to send automated notifications with last mile tracking number and link, mobile applications, and routing software to optimize routes. 
2. UPS: UPS utilizes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to keep track of parcels at different stages of the supply chain. 

Last Mile Carrier Tracking Explained

Last-mile delivery tracking is a logistic concept that indicates the package’s journey from the depot or fulfillment centers to the intended final destination, such as the customer’s home or office. 

For instance, Amazon is the last-mile delivery service provider. 

Last-mile carrier tracking aims to track the last leg of delivering goods as rapidly and cost-effectively as possible.

Therefore, last-mile carrier tracking is how we monitor in real time and follow the delivery of products to their destinations. Again, there are two considerations: one from the business standpoint and the second from the customers. However, both are customer-focused and aim to streamline delivery services. 

Core Concepts and Technologies

There are various technologies used for final mile tracking. 

• GPS tracking: The Global Positioning System (GPS) technology lets you track your vehicles in real time to identify and address variances and deviations proactively.
• RFID tags (Radio Frequency Identification): Products are fitted with RFID tags to scan them at different checkpoints so you can stay up-to-date on their location and status.
• Barcodes: Barcode scanning is another great way to track them and provide real-time updates throughout the delivery process. 
• Mobile applications: Mobile applications provide drivers with real-time traffic updates and route schedules. They can also view last-minute adjustments and navigate routes accordingly, helping you meet delivery timelines.
• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT lets you deploy sensors and connected devices to give insights into real-time package locations, temperatures, pressures, humidity levels, and other aspects that can influence delivery.

Importance of Last-Mile Delivery Tracking

Last-mile carrier tracking is essential because, with increasing competition in the delivery industry, you need to provide transparency, real-time information, and a quality product to customers. 

Further, it plays a crucial role in modern logistics and e-commerce. Let’s look at several other key reasons why it is important:

1. Enhanced customer satisfaction:

• Transparency: Real-time tracking allows customers to see the status and location of their orders, providing a sense of control and reducing anxiety about their delivery.
• Predictability: An accurate ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) or expected delivery date enhances the customer’s ability to plan around their delivery, improving their overall experience.
• Trust and loyalty: Reliable tracking fosters trust and can lead to repeat business as customers appreciate consistent and predictable service.

2. Operational efficiency:

• Route optimization: Tracking helps logistics companies optimize delivery routes, reducing fuel costs and delivery on time. 
• Resource allocation: By monitoring deliveries, companies can better allocate resources and respond to changes or issues in real time.
• Reduction of failed deliveries: With real-time updates, customers can be notified to ensure they are present to receive the package, reducing the number of failed delivery attempts.

3. Cost management Strategies

• Minimizing delays and errors: Tracking helps identify and address bottlenecks or issues quickly, reducing the costs associated with delays and errors.
• Efficient returns management: If a return is necessary, tracking can streamline the process, making it easier to manage reverse logistics efficiently.

4. Data-Driven Competitive Advantage:

• Differentiation: Companies that offer superior tracking capabilities can differentiate themselves from competitors, attracting more customers.
• Customer retention: Enhanced tracking features contribute to higher customer satisfaction, which can lead to better retention rates.

5. Detailed data insights and analytics:

• Performance data: Tracking provides valuable data that can be analyzed to measure performance, identify trends, and make informed decisions to improve service.
• Customer behavior: Understanding delivery patterns and customer interactions can help businesses tailor their services to better meet customer needs.

Because of all the reasons mentioned above, last-mile delivery tracking is not just a value-added service but a critical necessity in today’s competitive delivery industry landscape.

Selecting the Right Last-Mile Carrier Tracking Solution

Choosing last-mile carrier tracking is vital for any delivery business aiming to stay competitive and meet customer expectations. It offers numerous benefits that enhance the delivery process, ensuring a seamless and satisfactory experience for both businesses and their customers.

Let’s have a look at a few of them:

1. Real-time data capabilities

​​The significant reason for choosing last-mile carrier tracking is real-time data. If a customer receives a notification about the parcel, they will look forward to it. With the tracking system, they can identify the exact location and arrival time. 

Moreover, if there is any update from the driver’s side, they can effortlessly notify customers about the package. So, customers know the exact location of packages from minute to minute. This helps to build trust between the company and customers.

2. Proof of delivery features

Proof of delivery or Electronic proof of delivery (E-POD) is a digital receipt that shows the package has arrived at its destination. It is vital for last-mile operations because it signifies evidence of successful deliveries to their destination.  

E-POD captures photos or a digital signature. Also, it allows customers to feel more control over the delivery process. Moreover, if a dispute takes place, the proof of delivery can confirm that the package has arrived with the customer.

3. Predictive Estimated time of arrival (ETA) technology

Not all journeys are the same every day; some days, situations such as bad weather, road blockages, breakdowns, and traffic jams occur. If you have a tracking system, you can inform the customer and business owner about it.

Also, customers do not have to worry about their parcel, as they know its location, even if it is delayed. In the delivery business, clear communication is always better than no communication.

4. Customer interaction benefits

A mistake in the last-mile process can cause you to lose customers to competitors. With carrier tracking, you can know what customers need to keep them happy and satisfied with your services. 

You can also obtain insights to match their desires. For instance, you can know what time most customers prefer delivery. This will help you enhance your customer experience. 

5. Tackling customer’s request 

In last-mile carrier tracking, a customer does not have to make assumptions about delivery times. So, if the customer has different priorities, they can change the delivery method.

Evaluating Costs in Last Mile Delivery

Direct Costs vs Indirect Costs Breakdown

Direct costs, as the name indicates, are expenses directly related to transportation logistics, including drivers’ salaries, fuel, vehicle maintenance, and packaging costs. 

On the other hand, indirect costs entail operational spending not incurred directly as a result of delivery logistics, such as insurance, technology costs, and administrative overheads associated with managing the delivery network.

Estimated costs

The last mile delivery is vital for delivery operations, but it is expensive. The last-mile delivery process will cost you around $11 per delivery. It is the most costly part of the entire supply chain because the final mile is the last leg of delivery operations. 

The average cost of a delivery driver for small operations will be $1.2/ per mile; packaging mile, packaging cost $1; wage and labor will cost you around $10 per delivery; large and heavy packages will cost you around $50.

Leading Final Mile Carriers

After understanding the cost of last-mile delivery, let’s look at a few established final-mile carriers who have built their brand in the industry with their services.

1. Amazon

Do you know anyone who does not know what Amazon is? This is because Amazon has tremendously grown its brand in the logistics industry; moreover, it is one of the companies that have started same-day deliveries.

Unique Offerings

Amazon offers recommendable delivery services and offers same-day, 2-day, and more than 4-day services. Additionally, it allows users to track their packages with live locations, right from the warehouse or distribution center to their doorsteps.

2. FedEx

You will always find FedEx on the list of customer satisfaction with deliveries. FedEx is a global delivery service that helps deliver local or international packages. Thus, it is popular in the delivery service world.

Technology Innovations

The reason behind this is their efficient operational speed and delivery to the accurate location. The courier company is safe and offers to track numbers, real-time tracking for customers, automated notifications, and barcode scanning.

3. DHL

Another famous global delivery service in the USA is DHL. The courier service offers proactive tracking, which allows a customer to get an update about a shipping parcel via SMS notification or email.

Service Reliability

Also, it provides time-definite tracking where customers get real-time information and access to tracking packages. Thus, customers know when to expect their parcel and receive an arrival notification once it reaches them.

Applications of Last-Mile Carrier Tracking

Logistics Optimization

• The practice of tracking the package or knowing the package location on the part of the delivery logistics provider improves accountability and control over the entire carrier process.
• The logistics companies are answerable for all the information sent to the customer regarding the delivery. Also, a manager can check with a digital proof of delivery. And that’s the reason of tracking the last-mile carriers.

Customer Experience Enhancement

• In addition, if a customer comes up with a complaint, the logistics company can prove the fulfillment of delivery on the company’s part and avoid fraudulent loss claims.
• To have better customer-centric supply chain management and clear visibility of every delivery in process.

Enhancing Last-Mile Tracking Experience

To deliver the ideal last-mile tracking experience, you should utilize the logistics routing software that has the following capabilities:

1. Customer tracking visibility

Real-time SMS or emails about the parcels can efficiently improve visibility. Customers will be less anxious if they know where their packages have reached and when they can expect to reach them. 

Moreover, it is crucial because over 45% of customers avoid brands and businesses that do not provide visibility or tracking information into the delivery process. Relevant and timely delivery notifications drastically improve the experience. 

2. Driver communication channels

The end user should be able to schedule or change delivery windows. It reduces the chances of errors or missing the customer’s availability. 

Moreover, you should provide a way to communicate with the driver. It is the best way to enhance the tracking experience by developing user-friendly features. 

3. Advantages of route planners

A route planning solution could be the perfect software to help you deliver a user-friendly and great tracking experience. It helps to track proactive delivery driving with optimized routes.  

It must have tracking APIs to fetch details on all kinds of devices. This integration feature makes your job easier by connecting to other software to transform the data. 

Let’s understand better how Upper can streamline your last-mile carrier tracking experience.

Optimizing Final Mile Delivery with Upper

In the competitive world of last-mile delivery, efficiency, precision, and customer satisfaction are crucial. Upper offers a comprehensive solution designed to simplify and optimize every aspect of your delivery operations. 

Here’s how Upper can benefit your last-mile carrier company:

• Faster, smarter route planning: Conquer complex deliveries, optimize routes, and streamline operations with powerful automation.

• Easy stop management: Import, type, or select from the address book to build routes your way.

• Quick route creation: Assign drivers, set locations, and add constraints; Upper handles the rest.

• Time constraint management: Prioritize stops and set time windows for stress-free, on-time deliveries.

• Custom driver allocation: Assign specific drivers to specific stops, optimizing routes accordingly.

• Integrated pickups and deliveries: Manage both pickups and deliveries in the same route for maximum efficiency.

• Optimize for time or distance: Control every route to save time or fuel based on your business needs.

• Adapt to driver changes: Handle shifts in driver availability by swapping routes or reassigning them.

• Effortless driver management: Add, remove, or adjust driver availability to match business needs.

• Custom schedules: Set unique schedules and start/end locations for optimal driver performance.

• Live driver tracking: Monitor driver locations, progress, and stops on a map in real time.

• Real-time alerts: Receive updates for delays, unexpected stops, and stop status changes.

• Adaptive route management: Easily adjust routes for unexpected situations or last-minute orders.

• Comprehensive reporting: Utilize various reports for a complete view of operations.

• Trend analysis: Analyze historical data to uncover trends, identify issues, and forecast needs.

• Driver performance optimization: Boost overall efficiency by analyzing driver metrics.

Join the many businesses that have enhanced their last-mile delivery efficiency with Upper. 

“Upper’s live tracking feature has transformed the way we manage our delivery operations. With real-time visibility into driver locations, we can proactively respond to delays and ensure timely deliveries, enhancing overall transparency and customer satisfaction.”

Kam Kendell

Northern Express Logistics

Start your 7 days free trial today and experience the transformative power of efficient route planning, real-time visibility, and comprehensive analytics in your delivery operations.

Conclusion

Recap and Key Takeaways

1. Last-mile carrier tracking is essential for modern businesses, providing real-time visibility, enhancing customer satisfaction, and optimizing delivery operations.

2. By leveraging advanced technologies like GPS, RFID, and IoT, companies can transform the final delivery stage from a cost center to a competitive advantage.

The key message here is there are a lot of startups working towards a single goal. It comes down to finding the right match for your business’s specific needs.

For instance, an urban grocery store takes a different last-mile approach than large retailers. Although the end result is the same, the processes need to be more customer-focused.

If you are handling your last-mile deliveries alone, you will still need to optimize your routes. To do so, you must try last-mile routing software like Upper Route Planner.