Over the last few years, unexpected changes in consumer demand and raw material availability have catalyzed shipping innovation and digitization. In the past, the last mile of delivery was a major focus for optimization, but now businesses are looking to improve efficiency in all stages of the logistics process. With a greater focus on inventory forecasting and overall supply chain strategy, shippers are aiming to prevent delays rather than react to them. To improve revenue goals and efficiencies, some businesses are using decentralized warehouses and inventory-picking technology and even automated warehouses or distribution centres and streamlining the logistics process.
Understanding how to optimize distribution and streamline your first and middle-mile logistics process will help you reap the benefits of lead time reduction, create more visibility, increase cost savings and ultimately improve your customer’s experience.
In this ebook, we’ll define first and middle-mile delivery, then break down actionable optimizations including:
- Inventory management and storage facilities
- Route and process optimizations
- Communication and tracking shipments
- Loading and unloading speeds
- Warehousing visibility
