freight platform that connects shippers and truckers. Both routing and load optimization solutions can be part of an in-house planning or logistics solution, or managed by carriers. Planning software also can help shippers identify the transportation service that will most effectively move each parcel to its destination. For instance, it can help shippers determine whether they need to use less-than- truckload for a shipment, or to ship in larger quantities to leverage economies of scale. MICRO-MOBILITY Urban residents may soon see packages delivered on electric carts or electric-assist bikes. Along with cutting emissions, carts and bikes can boost last- mile efficiency, particularly in congested metropolitan areas, as many are small enough that they can travel on sidewalks and even inside buildings. For example, the Trace eCart from BrightDrop, which offers a portfolio of electric vehicles, smart containers, and software to decarbonize last-mile deliveries and reduce congestion, can carry several hundred pounds of packages. Because the carts are secured, drivers don’t need to worry about theft
BrightDrop developed the Trace eCart to reduce touches, errors, labor costs, and physical strain on the labor force. In an initial pilot, the Trace eCart enabled couriers to effectively handle 25% more packages per day.
and loading of shipments and equipment, so they can quickly be on their way. Once shipments are ready to hit the road, route optimization solutions that leverage artificial intelligence can help e-commerce companies address last-mile challenges while meeting customers’ delivery expectations, says Mohit Sinha, chief business officer with Hwy Haul, which is building a digital
waste of searching and locating specific inventory,” says Scott Shaw, principal consultant, consumer products supply chain lead with Clarkston Consulting. The information IoT devices provide allows shippers to adjust plans when circumstances change. LEVERAGING DATA While visibility is essential, it’s not enough. “You need to create a system that automatically reacts to data,” says Daniel Sokolovsky, CEO and founder of Warp, which focuses on middle- mile logistics. Consider a driver who learns—before starting their route--that a half-dozen pallets are delayed and that waiting for them means missing the window to unload at the next stop. With a system that leverages data, the driver likely will calculate it’s best to go without the pallets, rather than continuing to add delays across the supply chain. The driver might also shift to a smaller truck. They can communicate the changes to other parties in the supply chain, so they can also adjust. LOAD AND ROUTE PLANNING SOLUTIONS Both load and route planning software can speed shipments. Load building software enables efficient consolidation
Route planning software can help expedite shipments by generating the most efficient route for drivers and supporting scheduling and routing decisions. Most route planning solutions also optimize how drivers get to each location based on real-time traffic information.
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