Inadequate real-time data and breakdowns in the supply chain management process have a detrimental effect on last-mile logistics and supply chain efficiency. Rugged mobile technology eliminates breakdowns in supply chain management (SCM) and transportation planning by enabling total connectivity and clear communication.
The global supply chain is being pressed to improve efficiency and speed, while customers demand information and quickness. These demands exacerbate last-mile transportation and logistics complications and put a burden on business effectiveness.
With global e-commerce sales expected to reach $4.2 trillion in 2021, the strain on last-mile logistics will only grow. Inadequate planning, a lack of visibility into last-mile procedures, and ineffective communication are just a few of the numerous challenges that transportation and logistics companies face. Fortunately, mobility via rugged devices complements successful last-mile technology and has the potential to address these supply chain efficiency concerns.
The following are the top five last-mile issues affecting supply chain efficiency in the shipping and logistics business, which mobile devices can help resolve:
- Increasing customer service expectations
Shipping within one day. Alerts in real time. Over the previous few years, customers' perceptions of excellent customer service have risen significantly. Equally important, customers expect information to be immediately accessible to them, whether via text, email, or live chat. The age of omnichannel purchasing and multichannel service is here, which means transportation and logistics companies must better incorporate customers into their processes and develop an efficient supply chain.
Customers expect real-time information, and last-mile delivery software that utilizes orchestrated approaches may keep them completely informed. Customers can receive SMS messages regarding anticipated delivery windows, reschedule deliveries, and convey any last-minute adjustments. Drivers and delivery employees can utilize their mobile devices to interact with data that has been uploaded via fleet telematics and last-mile delivery software. In most cases, merely updating a few fields and tracking live through GPS is sufficient to initiate conversations, saving the delivery crew an extra step. These initiatives contribute to a higher level of customer satisfaction and supply chain efficiency.
- Inadequate visibility
Uncertainty in the whereabouts of materials or products is one of the most significant difficulties in a supply chain. Pen and paper operations result in inefficient inventory management, limited visibility, and ineffective tracking of items, making it impossible to plan future activities. In this environment, the topic of how to optimize supply chain procedures becomes critical for sustaining a competitive edge. Mobile devices enable the storage, transmission, and tracking of data about any item in any part of the world. All information may be accessed easily via a central database that is updated in real time by stakeholders.
Mobile devices enable all transportation and logistics companies to collaborate on a single, conveniently accessible source of information. Additionally, such transparency enables all involved parties to make data-driven decisions rather than relying on erroneous information. Mobile devices are essential components of the supply chain's digital transformation into digital supply networks. Their contributions are priceless in a data-driven field.
- Recurring visits
With growing shipping prices, businesses are seeking for strategies to minimize returns, all the more so because they are frequently expected to shoulder the brunt of return package transportation expenses. Mobile gadgets assist in reducing returns. To begin, the last-mile supplier can use the camera function on the mobile device to photograph the delivered package in order to document its condition together with the bill of sale and other pertinent information. Second, last-mile delivery software installed on a mobile device provides proof of delivery, which can assist in resolving any consumer concerns.
Additionally, delivery employees can assist with equipment setup as desired and capture pertinent information on a mobile device that can be used to document issues or complete a checklist of operations that must be performed before the sale and delivery are considered complete. By ensuring that goods are in good condition and configured for optimal use, mobile devices assist with a critical part of last-mile transportation and logistics, hence increasing supply chain efficiency.
- Routes that are inefficient
Unexpected occurrences might occur at any point in time, jeopardizing supply chain efficiency. Whether it's lengthy traffic delays or weather-related challenges, transportation and logistics companies must be able to change their delivery routes in real time. Lack of adequate communication with dispatch and a clear image of the changing situation on the ground reduces the efficiency of last-mile logistics.
Delivery staff can discuss route issues, assist with additional activities en route to warehouses, and optimize route optimization and supply chain efficiency using a robust mobile device mounted on the vehicle dashboard. These last-mile solutions help businesses save time and money while also increasing consumer happiness.
- Inventory management in a warehouse is complicated.
The warehouse is the starting point for efficient last-mile delivery. Today's retail and supply scenario necessitates both huge and small warehouses, all of which require precise packing, inventory tracking, and software. Additionally, micro-fulfillment centers are expanding to meet customer demand for expedited shipping. Complex inventory management that must now span enormous warehouses, micro-fulfillment centers, and inbound and outbound freight all require excellent orchestration of real-time inventory information.
Rugged mobile tablets in the warehouse provide efficient workflows and accurate record-keeping, which results in a more effective supply chain and easier transportation and logistics operations down the road.
The transportation and logistics industries are confronted with numerous issues as the global supply chain is put to the test and customer demands continue to rise. Supply chain optimization can be aided by digital transformation and technology such as robotics and advanced last-mile software. Mobile devices are the platform via which such assistance and real-time information can be accessed.
Contact Customize Tablet to learn more about how our rugged mobile solutions can help you improve the efficiency of your supply chain management.