The “final mile” in shipping logistics is the last leg of the delivery process, where a shipment is transported from a distribution center or a fulfillment center to its final destination — usually the customer’s doorstep.
Final-mile carrier tracking is a crucial aspect of this process as it allows shippers, carriers, and customers to monitor and manage the delivery status in real time. In this post, we will dive into final-mile carrier tracking details, exploring how it works and why it matters.
What Is Final-Mile Carrier Tracking?
Final-mile carrier tracking is the process of monitoring and managing the delivery of goods during the final leg of transportation from the distribution center to the recipient’s location. It involves using technology and systems that provide real-time visibility into the movement of shipments, allowing shippers, carriers, and customers to track and trace their packages throughout the delivery process.
Final-mile carrier tracking typically involves using transportation management systems (TMS), global positioning system (GPS) tracking, mobile applications, and other tools that enable real-time updates on the status and location of shipments.
How Does Final-Mile Carrier Tracking Work?
Final-mile carrier tracking typically starts at the distribution or fulfillment center where the shipment is prepared for delivery. The shipment is loaded onto a delivery truck or van and the carrier responsible for the final-mile delivery sets off on the route to the recipient’s location.
During the delivery process, the shipment is tracked using GPS technology, which provides real-time location updates to the carrier, as well as to the shipper and the customer.
The carrier may use a mobile application or a device installed in the delivery vehicle to receive updates and instructions from the shipper, such as:
- Delivery address
- Special instructions
- Changes in the delivery schedule
The carrier may also update the system with the status of the shipment, such as “out for delivery,” “delivered,” or “attempted delivery,” providing real-time visibility into the package’s progress.
Customers may also receive notifications or access a tracking portal to monitor the status of their shipments and receive updates on the estimated arrival time (ETA).
Why Is Final-Mile Carrier Tracking Important?
Final-mile carrier tracking is essential for several reasons:
User Experience
In today’s fast-paced and e-commerce-driven world, businesses expect transparency and visibility into their shipments. Final-mile carrier tracking allows you to track your packages in real time, providing them with information on the estimated time of arrival.
This enhances the overall experience by reducing uncertainty, increasing trust, and allowing customers to plan accordingly.
Operational Efficiency
Final-mile carrier tracking enables shippers and carriers to optimize their operations. Shippers can better manage their inventory, optimize delivery routes, and proactively address any issues or delays by having real-time visibility into the location and status of shipments.
Carriers can also improve productivity by following optimized routes, reducing unnecessary mileage, and minimizing delivery failures or returns.
Exception Management
Final-mile carrier tracking helps identify and address exceptions or issues during the delivery process.
For example, if a shipment is delayed, damaged, or requires a signature, the carrier can quickly update the system, and the shipper and customer can be notified in real time. This allows for the timely resolution of any problems and helps manage customer expectations.
Cost Savings
Final-mile carrier tracking can help reduce costs associated with failed deliveries, returns, or re-deliveries. By being able to view the current status of shipments, carriers can proactively manage any issues, such as incorrect addresses or missed deliveries, and take corrective actions promptly.
This helps in reducing unnecessary costs and improving the overall efficiency of the final-mile delivery process.
Final-Mile Carrier Tracking at Service Express
At Service Express, we aim to go above and beyond to provide exceptional and transparent service. We can monitor shipment statuses and provide real-time updates through our final-mile tracking.
Our advanced tracking system allows us to be transparent and help you plan for shipment deliveries. We take the logistical matters off your plate and let you return to what you do best: run your business.
If you want to learn more about our final-mile services, you can get a quote quickly and learn about the next steps.
