E-Commerce

What is last mile tracking?

Delivery tracking on mobile.

The last mile of a delivery journey plays a crucial role in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. 

Last mile tracking has emerged as a transformative technology, providing businesses with real-time visibility and optimization opportunities. 

In this article, we will dive into the concept of last mile tracking.

Tracking a package

What is last mile tracking?

Last-mile tracking refers to the monitoring of a package during the final step of the delivery

It enables businesses and customers to gain insights into the precise location, status, and ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival). 

Utilizing last mile tracking can ensure greater efficiency, improved customer experience and enhanced operational control. 

To learn more about last mile delivery check out “Why is last mile delivery important?

Two types of last mile tracking

Last mile tracking can be used on both sides of the delivery. Customers and businesses can benefit from seeing current updates on the delivery process. Here’s more information about the two.

Tracking for customers

Last mile delivery tracking for customers is being sent updates and other important information about their packages. This type of data is now being expected from customers.

Businesses like Uber have made this a standard in all their deliveries. Customers can easily log in and track their package from the moment it leaves the warehouse or store.

The expectancy for last mile tracking is just gaining traction now. More and more companies are following suit.

Customer tracking a package

Tracking for businesses

Businesses benefit from the use of last-mile tracking. They can keep track of all deliveries on the road and make operational efficiency changes based on drivers.

Companies can also have more visibility within their operations. Each checkpoint all packages go through could be monitored allowing managers or owners to look for discrepancies and make changes as needed. 

What are last mile checkpoints?

Last mile checkpoints refer to predefined stages or milestones within the last mile process where activities or events occur. 

These checkpoints serve as key monitoring points that provide actionable information about the progress and status of a delivery. 

Some common last mile checkpoints include:

Out for delivery – The package has left the distribution center or a previous stop and is on route to the customer’s location. 

Arrival at destination hub – The package has reached a local hub or depot closest to the customer’s location.

Out for final delivery – The package departs from the destination hub and is assigned to a specific driver for the last mile delivery. 

Delivered – The package has successfully reached the customer’s doorstep or designated delivery location.

Tracking a delivery and the driver

Using last mile delivery software

Last mile tracking is revolutionizing the logistics industry by providing real-time visibility, efficient routing, and seamless execution of deliveries.

By leveraging this technology, businesses can optimize their operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and stay competitive. 

Need help with your own delivery? Check out Breadstack Delivery

The market for last mile delivery, which includes same-day delivery services, is growing over 15% per year as consumers shop more online and desire convenience.

Breadstack Delivery is software made to simplify last mile complexities