Solutions for Last Mile Delivery Challenges with Rugged Wearable Devices
Over the past two years, the last-mile delivery process has become even more complicated and challenging due to the ongoing pandemic. Despite its importance in generating profits for businesses, logistics companies continue to face various last-mile delivery challenges. This final stage of the logistics process remains the most demanding, but also one of the fastest-growing areas in the industry. According to a report by Insider Intelligence, e-commerce sales are predicted to exceed $5 trillion USD this year.
A study by Accenture revealed that 61% of logistics companies find last-mile delivery to be the most tedious and inefficient process. At Conker, we understand the importance of overcoming these challenges and supporting business growth through the right technology. In this article, we will explore the common challenges faced by organisations in last-mile delivery and how rugged wearables can help improve workforce efficiency.
Why is last-mile delivery important
Last mile delivery is the final stage of the logistics process, where goods are transported from a transportation hub or warehouse to the customer’s doorstep. This stage is called the “last mile” because it is the final and often the most expensive and challenging part of the delivery process.
There are several reasons why last mile delivery is critical in the logistics industry.
Firstly, it directly impacts the customer’s experience with the delivery service, which is essential in maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty. A positive last mile delivery experience can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
Secondly, last mile delivery can be challenging and costly due to navigating urban environments, congested road networks, and limited delivery time windows. Delivery companies are continually seeking new technologies and solutions to optimise their last mile delivery processes and reduce costs.
Lastly, the growth of e-commerce and online shopping has increased demand for last mile delivery services. With more consumers shopping online, the need for efficient and reliable last mile delivery is higher than ever before. Delivery companies are continually adapting and innovating to meet the increasing demand for last mile delivery services.
Overall, last-mile delivery plays a crucial role in the logistics industry. It accounts for the majority of delivery costs and influences customer satisfaction and business profitability.
What Are Rugged Wearable Devices?
Rugged wearable devices are a type of wearable technology that can withstand demanding conditions, such as extreme temperatures and drops. They are particularly useful in industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and construction, where workers require hands-free access to information while performing their tasks.
Rugged wearables are typically worn on the user’s arm, and they use sensors to detect the user’s arm movements, providing a natural and intuitive user experience. They also feature a right-click functionality for improved efficiency, allowing users to interact with the device without touching the screen, making them ideal for gloved users and avoiding accidental key presses. The devices can be easily removed after use, making them efficient to be used from one employee to another.
Using rugged wearables has many advantages, including increased productivity, improved accuracy, and reduced errors. By providing workers with hands-free access to critical information, they can perform their tasks more efficiently and safely.
One significant advantage of rugged wearable devices is their ability to withstand extreme conditions. They are designed to operate in harsh environments, including extreme temperatures and humidity, making them ideal for use in manufacturing plants, construction sites, and other industrial settings.
Another advantage of rugged wearables is their ability to withstand drops and impacts. They are designed to withstand shocks and vibrations, ensuring that they remain operational even in the event of accidental drops or impacts.
Rugged wearables also have essential components, such as a CPU port, that enables them to connect to other devices, including scanners and printers. This allows for real-time data exchange and improved workflow.
The Many Challenges Last Mile Delivery Faces And How A Rugged Wearable Can Solve These
Distance and Unpredictable Conditions
The distance between the warehouse and the customer’s location is a critical factor in ensuring prompt delivery. However, unforeseen factors such as inclement weather, breakdowns, and traffic can disrupt the package’s journey, resulting in delays, higher costs, loss of customers, and damage to business reputation. Therefore, effective route optimisation and planning ahead are crucial in ensuring timely and successful delivery.
As stated in Accenture’s study, “current delivery models need to evolve to leverage advanced analytics, dynamic route optimisation and artificial intelligence so that they can provide greater speed and flexibility to respond within a fluid delivery environment.”
Fortunately, businesses need not worry about unexpected and unpredictable conditions during the last mile delivery process. Rugged wearable devices are designed to withstand different weather conditions, such as strong winds, dust, and moisture, resulting in fewer device failures and lower costs. With the right technology in their hands, workers can ensure speed and efficiency during the last mile delivery process.
Improper Route Optimisation
Route optimisation plays a crucial role in determining the success of the last-mile delivery process, taking into account unpredictable factors such as traffic and other challenges. It provides a plan to ensure a smooth and efficient delivery process for both the customer and the warehouse, resulting in lower costs and greater customer satisfaction.
To optimise the delivery route effectively, it is essential to have the proper software and data. However, gathering accurate data can be a challenge for businesses. This is where rugged devices come in – they are strong and resilient, able to withstand various conditions such as extreme temperatures and moisture.
Equipping your workforce with rugged devices makes it easier to gather the necessary data to create the best delivery route and ensure a seamless last-mile delivery process.
Human Errors in the Process
Businesses often face issues with human error when it comes to scanning and tracking orders. According to Supply Chain Brain, more than 80% of disruptions occur due to human error. Mistakes made by employees can lead to disruptions in inventory management, difficulty in tracking items, and losses, making it challenging to provide accuracy and transparency to customers. Rugged wearables can increase productivity, allowing users to finish required tasks faster than ever before.
The use of rugged wearables can reduce the chances of human error occurring. They increase workplace accuracy and speed, freeing employees’ hands and allowing them to be more aware of their surroundings. For example, the Conker BG2 is a highly comfortable and breathable work glove that fits any workplace. Rugged wearables such as the BG2 promise mobility, speed, and better worker awareness.
In 2023, Conker also introduced the BG2L, a long-range rugged wearable device that can help your team reach even the most challenging areas of your operations floor with ease.
Having an Outdated Technology and System
In today’s fast-paced world, trends and changes occur quickly. Keeping up with the latest trends is essential for businesses to stay competitive. Outdated technology and systems can lead to falling behind competitors, especially when they offer features like same-day delivery or package-tracking transparency.
Replacing a system can be challenging and costly, especially if it’s deeply ingrained in a business. However, failing to update can be detrimental to a company’s speed, efficiency, and overall profitability.
Rugged wearable devices make it easier to track items and packages. With an app, both customers and staff can monitor the progress of orders and track employees on the last-mile delivery. Technology is transforming last-mile delivery, and the logistics industry is constantly looking for ways to improve this supply chain segment. In March 2022, Google announced an improved tool that combines Google Maps with analytics to enhance last-mile delivery.
By leveraging appropriate technology, businesses can overcome last-mile challenges and provide exceptional experiences for their customers.
Conker Wearable Technology
Conker is a leading provider of rugged wearable devices for various industries, including logistics, warehousing, field services, and retail. Our range of devices includes handhelds, rugged tablets, and wearable devices that can withstand harsh environments, drops, and extreme temperatures.
Conker’s wearable devices are designed to provide flexibility, durability, and productivity for users.
A popular wearable device from Conker is the BG2, a work glove that can be used as a barcode scanner. The BG2 is designed for ease of use, comfort, and mobility, making it ideal for inventory management and order picking in warehouse and retail environments.
The BG2L is a long-range rugged wearable device introduced by Conker in 2023. This device is designed to help businesses reach even the most challenging areas of their operations floors with ease. The BG2L is equipped with advanced technology that allows it to work seamlessly within a business’s existing infrastructure.
Conker’s wearable devices are also designed with the latest technology such as long-range RFID, which enables users to read RFID tags from a distance. This technology is ideal for tracking inventory in large warehouses, improving accuracy and efficiency in inventory management.
Overall, Conker’s rugged wearable devices are designed to improve productivity, reduce downtime, and improve accuracy in various industries. Their devices are built to withstand tough conditions and are easy to use, making them ideal for users who work in harsh environments.
Let us help you find the right wearable device for your business needs. Book your 15-minute discovery call today.
