A lot has been said about the role of last-mile delivery in achieving customer satisfaction. However, if you rely on deliveries to get your products to customers, you should also pay attention to the first-mile delivery and its impact on the shipping process.
The competition is stiff, too. For one, Indonesia’s e-commerce market is forecasted to reach approximately US$160 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV) by 2030, according to Statista. This upward trend highlights that businesses will need to keep their e-commerce shipping solutions efficient and technologically up-to-date to contend with the vast volumes of goods being shipped.
Aside from e-commerce, traditional industries continue to rely on robust logistics networks to reach customers across the vast Indonesian archipelago. With over 17,000 islands of varying infrastructure development, these businesses face the logistical challenge of connecting urban and remote areas.
Across these industries, consumer demand for affordable, swift, and reliable deliveries is surging. A Forbes interview highlighted that consumers expect deliveries to arrive within four days or less. It also stated that tracking options, low-cost shipping, and the flexibility to choose delivery modes are becoming deciding factors for consumers when they shop.
Whether you’re a budding e-commerce brand or an established retailer, you will need to streamline your delivery processes from the first mile to the last to satisfy and retain customers. This article will cover how each aspect of the shipping process is essential and how DHL Express Indonesia can help you achieve swift and seamless deliveries locally and internationally for long-term business success.
What are first-mile and last-mile deliveries?
In logistics, first-mile delivery encompasses the initial stage of the shipping process – from when the goods are picked up from a production facility or retailer to their safe arrival at a warehouse or distribution facility. This crucial stage can massively impact the rest of the shipping journey as it determines the efficiency of your business’ retail fulfillment process.
Meanwhile, last-mile delivery represents the final leg of the delivery process, where your package travels from the distribution center to its ultimate destination – your customer's doorstep. This last stage is typically considered one of the most challenging in the entire delivery process as it’s subject to many complex, variable, and unexpected factors. Moreover, the last mile can significantly impact your business as it comes into more contact with the customer and affects their experience and satisfaction with your service. Success factors such as route optimization, delivery efficiency, and real-time tracking can determine whether or not they make a repeat purchase.
Across industries, your delivery experience can influence your long-term business success. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure efficiency in both first-mile and last-mile delivery stages so that your shipments reach their destinations safely and on time.
Understanding the DHL Express delivery process
Let’s delve into how DHL Express’ delivery service works, from first-mile to last-mile logistics.
- First-mile: The journey begins when a professional DHL Express courier collects your parcel from your specified location. Once collected, your package is transported securely to the nearest DHL Express facility, where it's sorted and prepared for the next stage of its journey.
- Middle-mile: This behind-the-scenes phase involves sorting, processing, and transporting your parcel to the distribution center closest to its final destination. DHL Express leverages its extensive network and advanced logistics capabilities to ensure efficient and timely movement during this stage.
- Last-mile: Your parcel embarks on its final journey from the distribution center to your customer's doorstep. DHL Express' dedicated delivery team ensures safe and timely delivery, providing real-time shipment tracking for complete peace of mind.
DHL Express’ innovative solutions for efficient deliveries
At DHL Express, we recognize that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for delivery services. Each sector, from the booming world of e-commerce to the critical field of healthcare, has unique requirements. We use advanced technology to tailor our strategies to these requirements, ensuring flexible yet timely deliveries.
Technology is also pivotal in streamlining and optimizing our first-mile and last-mile delivery operations. For example, our sophisticated online tracking systems provide real-time visibility into your shipment's journey so that you and your customers have peace of mind knowing where the shipment is.
Coordinating logistics in Indonesia can be particularly challenging given its vast number of islands, diverse landscapes, and varying levels of infrastructure development. However, our AI-driven route optimization software analyses data such as traffic patterns, weather conditions, and delivery urgencies to devise the most efficient delivery routes in real time. This helps us to efficiently navigate Indonesia's diverse geography, from bustling cities to remote islands. In turn, you can worry less about how long it’ll take for your delivery to arrive.
With DHL Express, your customers can also benefit from the flexibility of our On-Demand Delivery (ODD) services. They can schedule delivery times at their convenience or opt for their packages to be left with a neighbor instead of having to receive them personally. This enhanced convenience goes a long way in improving the customer experience.
Go every mile with DHL Express’ delivery services
As consumers continue to expect swift deliveries and transparency throughout the shipping process, it’s critical to ensure seamlessness in every stage, from the first mile to the last. While coordinating shipments can be a complex undertaking, a reliable logistic partner such as DHL Express can help ease the challenge.
Open a business account with DHL Express to leverage our cutting-edge technological solutions and dedicated professionals. With our expertise and international shipping services, you can greatly elevate the quality of your delivery services worldwide and set yourself up for long-term business success.
