Logistics isn’t just about moving cargo from one point to another. But let’s be real for a moment, before technology stepped in, logistics was a tough game. Route optimization can help you here.
It has helped so many businesses get to destinations on time, showcasing the benefits of route optimization in enhancing operational efficiency.
It doesn’t matter if you are in shipping, the restaurant industry, or even a florist.
Timing is everything in logistics.
I remember the days when my logistics company ran with just 10 people, handling breakbulk cargo and containers coming into the port.
Once offloaded, trucks transported shipments to a warehouse before they were dispatched across the region.
That sounds simple on paper, but in reality, it was a nerve-wracking dance of constant phone calls and route planning scribbled on whiteboards – and forever updating that same whiteboard as things changed. I can still smell the board writing pen.
We had to plan meticulously around ship sailing schedules, ensuring cargo reached the port before the closing stack date.
Missing that deadline? Unthinkable.
It meant international retail chains would be left without stock, and we’d be left with a very unhappy customer base.
Let me show you how delivery management software with a route optimization feature helps set the stage…I mean road map to better logistics.
Why does my logistics business need route optimization software?
Picture this: I have 15 trucks loading in one day. I look at this as a mountain to climb, but with my delivery management software, I can simply load the addresses and the technology automatically calculates the best route for my drivers.
Route optimization tools significantly improve operational efficiency for businesses with numerous destinations. They enable quick planning and scheduling for deliveries, leading to reduced mileage and optimized capacity, ultimately contributing to cost savings and enhanced service quality.
Your cargo movement is planned in just seconds. How’s that for saving time!
Here’s what a strong route optimization feature in delivery management software factors in:
- Traffic patterns: We all know peak-hour congestion is not ideal when you’re moving cargo.
- Weather conditions: Heavy rain for example can throw off an ETA.
- Delivery time windows: Some customers need their cargo at an exact time or they miss the boat.
- Truck load capacity: Your overloaded truck equals inefficiencies and fines.
The biggest satisfaction of this though, was watching my competition still using spreadsheets. Thank goodness that’s not me anymore.
How does route optimization solve common logistics problems?
In a perfect world, I would never miss a shipment. But in reality, I missed a few shipments which cost our company customers. Planning manually just doesn’t work anymore, and your old fashioned logistics managers need to realize this quickly.
Let me show you how route optimization creates efficient paths and fixes some common logistics problems.
1. Late deliveries mean decreased customer satisfaction
When it was “life before technology,” late deliveries were a regular occurance.
Drivers got caught in unexpected traffic jams, took longer routes, or missed time-sensitive drop-offs. In logistics, you can’t afford late deliveries.
You have got to get it right.
What’s the fix? Route optimization predicts these issues in real time, rerouting drivers to avoid delays. Drivers get the fastest and best route, which helps improve customer satisfaction.
2. Fuel costs are putting your business in the red
I used to almost choke on receiving our fuel bill each month. I was also constantly in the truck yard inspecting trucks to see what could be causing this huge fuel bill.
But I noticed in time that drivers were travelling on their “favorite routes.” I actually asked my drivers to show me on a map what route he was travelling.
To my horror, the driver showed me a route with constant road works. Now I realized, the truck idling for extended periods was eating fuel – and costing me money.
What’s the fix? Route optimization reduces fuel usage by ensuring drivers take the most cost-effective and optimized routes, cutting down on unnecessary travel time and mileage.
3. Overloaded trucks damages cargoÂ
Imagine a logistics team overloading a vehicle because they want to maximize space.
What a disaster.
Picture this: Your warehouse loading team is loading breakbulk cargo onto a truck. The capacity for this vehicle is 34 tonnes.
Route optimization can also manage multiple routes efficiently, ensuring that each vehicle is utilized to its full potential without overloading.
You inspect the truck before it is dispatched, and notice spillage pouring onto other bags of cargo. There are at least 25 damaged bags.
Your driver also notices that there was an extra layer packed onto the truck which has now caused extra weight to be packed onto the truck, causing these breakbulk cargo bags to tear.
What’s the fix? Route optimization works with load planning to ensure trucks are properly filled and routes are optimized for vehicle capacity.
delivery. The result? Reduced costs, faster deliveries, and happier customers. In a world where
Let’s recap: How route optimization makes it happen in logistics
Let me tell you, delivery management software has helped me gain better control over my logistics operations.
From planning routes in seconds, to knowing exactly where my truck at any time, has made my logistics process simpler and faster.
You can make “logistics happen” better for you and your business by using delivery technology like route optimization.
About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
