How consumer delivery demands can be met in a sustainable way

By Danny Hudson, Director of Retail & CPG at FarEye

Meeting consumer delivery demands can be a daunting task. Combining this with integration of sustainable solutions can be even more challenging for some. But by taking the time and by doing research you’ll be able to make the right internal choices to create sustainable solutions. 73% of consumers expect delivery companies to act in an environmentally sustainable way, and This can be achieved by using a simple step by step process, however it’s easiest to update software which automates it for you – this allows for consumer demands to be met and for internal implementation of sustainable solutions. Here are easy and quick tips to increase sustainability by reducing resources, time, and error, all while meeting your customer delivery demands.

Reduction of Resources

Every business owner will know that the little things add up. As a software provider which specialises in logistics and supply chains, we know how much more an extra kilometre driving can cost our clients over time. Simple actions can help save you both money and time, and make your business more efficient overall. Firstly, we recommend investing in a tool that makes managing your resources easy. It’s important to note that resources are not just physical objects, it also refers to things such as time or your employees. Managing these effectively means less waste and thus less cost.

1.) Reduce CO2 emissions from heavy duty trucks

FarEye implements long-haul truck route planning, allowing carriers to design optimal multi-day, long-haul trucking routes. This cuts down idling times and fuel consumption. For example, route planning can help avoid roadblocks and congested traffic zones. FarEye’s algorithm facilitates long-haul deliveries with multiple drivers to swap driving shifts and meet the legal norms of on-road driving requirements. Carriers can not only achieve sustainable goals but also meet their OTIF targets.

FarEye also implements smart scheduling to improve collaboration between the stakeholders and slot-based/appointment-based scheduling can significantly reduce fuel consumption and enhance trip efficiency.

2.) Increase your first-attempt delivery rate to lower emissions

Increasing first attempt deliveries is on the priority list of every logistics manager. It keeps costs under control, operations are more efficient, and companies can achieve optimum resource utilisation.

3.) Use greener carriers by mixing fleets

omnichannel retail has changed the type of delivery fleets. E-cargo bikes, cycles and foot-delivery are recent additions in the traditional (trucks, trains, planes, ships) delivery fleet category. The green vehicle route planning allows CEP companies to plan their routes with a mix of fleets and achieve on-time delivery of shipments with a zero-carbon footprint.

In terms of delivery our goal is always to reduce empty miles and to offset usage of carbon. This looks different for different clients however planning plays a large role. Most use our route optimisation, which aims to reduce time and fuel usage. Our GPS system takes into account things such as traffic, detours, and expected delivery times. This allows our clients to reduce their use of resources while having a full overview of the process.

Reduction of Time

Time is a precious resource which should be used wisely in any company which incorporates delivery. As an industry which relies on consumer satisfaction for business, implementation of sustainable solutions means that we all benefit.

When it comes to reduction of time, we’ve noted that efficiency is key. The best way to do this has been through the introduction of smart technologies. Introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has allowed for many companies to bypass their older processes. Recently we have introduced blockchain tracking technology into quite a few of our clients warehouses. This fully automated process reduces the administrative hassle which normally comes with parcels and packages. It also helps these companies find lost packages, and helps them process returns. As this is fully automated this also reduces internal errors.

Reduction of Error

While mistakes are a factor of life, reducing these within a business can positively affect everyone. As stated in previous points, things like software, automation, and planning play a role in sustainability, and they all play a role in reducing error.

For many of us in the logistics and supply chain industry, a focus of this is on delivery specifically, mostly in terms of traceability and tracking. This is a time where quite a few companies rely on third parties to deliver any packages. For both customers and suppliers, this can be stressful as there’s a lack of overall visibility. To combat this we implemented first mile to final mile tracking. Meaning that parcels can be tracked from production all the way to the customers door. As the same software that does this also incorporates automation, GPS guidance, and route optimisation it greatly reduces time spent on administrative tasks. It’s also a much easier and simpler alternative in comparison to older processes.

Focusing on improving the processes in your business equals results in all areas, and while the customer is the be all and end all for many companies, it’s important to prioritise processes which make your workplace more efficient. Having a holistic approach to sustainability does result in higher customer satisfaction and overall supply chain optimization is a win-win for both consumers, companies & the environment.