Route Planning Modernised for a Local Courier Operator

Introduction

A local courier company aimed to increase delivery capacity without buying more vehicles or expanding the dispatch team.

The Challenge

Dispatch relied on a few experienced individuals, routes were planned manually, and last-minute changes caused delays. Fuel costs were rising, and customers wanted better delivery updates.

Solution & Implementation

We introduced a central job board with automatic route suggestions based on delivery windows, driver capacity and distance. Drivers used a simple mobile app to receive their route, capture proof of delivery and report issues. Customers received proactive notifications (dispatch, out for delivery, delivered), reducing inbound “where is my parcel?” calls. We implemented reporting that owners could use: delivery success rate, cost per drop, and route performance by area. Rollout was staged to avoid disruption: one depot first, then expansion once drivers were comfortable.

Impact

• Fuel and mileage costs reduced by ~14% through better routing

• Deliveries per driver increased by ~11% (same working hours)

• On‑time delivery improved by ~9 percentage points

• Customer status calls reduced by ~25%

• Payback: ~4–6 months, driven by capacity gains and fuel savings