With more consumers than ever making purchases online, last-mile delivery has become an increasingly complex link in the supply chain. The old way of doing things, where a shipper would rely on only one or two carriers to get their product to the consumer, is behind us. Now, as consumer expectations, technology, and supply chain risk continue to change, many companies are finding that their last-mile strategies must also evolve. 

One of the biggest challenges companies face today is the moving target of customer satisfaction. On the one hand, consumers want their products delivered on schedule and accurately. But to add to the complexity of today’s retail world, companies are also looking for ways to replicate the curated brand experience of in-store shopping in the delivery process. Even more challenges lie behind the scenes. Supply chain disruptions necessitate increased visibility and agility in the face of sudden challenges. And differences in transportation requirements are forcing companies to diversify their carrier options.

Who shippers choose as their last-mile delivery partner will make a big difference in how they’re able to manage these challenges. Companies will need to consider a host of factors as they select their partners, such as cost, their commitment to brand experience, reliability and flexibility. 

By investing in technology, choosing the right last-mile partner, and leveraging the gig economy, shippers can not only find solutions to the challenges of modern e-commerce but get ahead. 

Ryan Sullivan, vice president of FRAYT; Ben Emmrich, CEO and founder of Tusk Logistics; Bart De Muynck, a supply chain advisor; and Rob Davis, president of Diakon Logistics, discuss the modern challenges of last-mile delivery and the solutions available to shippers as they look for last-mile providers that will work with them to imagine new possibilities for the future of supply chains.

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