As far as technology is concerned, the delivery industry has only just begun to pick at the tip of the iceberg. As a result, we are slowly beginning to see more and more technology being integrated in order to improve the efficiency of the entire process. This has happened with many forms of technology such as the internet of things and GPS that help to make the job a little bit easier. Here we are going to look at how technology is helping to reduce the risk of human error within the parcel delivery sector.
GPS
Although this seems like a small addition when it comes to technological advancement within the parcel delivery industry, it is still one of the most important. GPS has reduced the risk of human error as it enables the delivery driver to ensure that they are delivering to the right location and can even cut out extensive traffic. GPS has even enabled customers to be able to track their parcel and ensure that they are aware of where the parcel is at all times. This is particularly beneficial if you are looking to ensure you or the recipient are home at the time of delivery, as the tracking code can easily be shared between both parties.
IoT
The IoT, otherwise known as the Internet of Things, is reducing the risk of human error within the delivery industry as it allows the easy spread of information and data across countless elements of the supply chain. The IoT even allows the stockroom to be kept stocked to ensure that companies have enough stock to suit the demand for that specific product by issuing automatic alerts when things are running low. Without the implementation of the IoT within the delivery industry, there is an increased risk that stock will not be ordered on time or deliveries may be misplaced or lost through a lack of easily accessible information. Additionally, the IoT allows companies to store all the required information remotely, reducing the risk of records becoming lost and reducing the number of paper files kept within the work environment.
Time Management Systems
Time management systems (TMS) are a streamlined way of ensuring that companies stay on top of the orders that they are sending and how many they have left outstanding at the end of the month. This is crucial as this ensures that the business is running efficiently and keeps track of the number of orders that are being sent per month. This can really help to benefit a business, as this information help to ensure that the company is meeting its goals and running on-budget. This style of system can also be used for keeping an eye on employees within a larger warehouse by clocking in and out at the beginning and end of every shift. Although this is only a small change to a business this can then help when it comes to pay as it gives the exact look at how many hours an employee has worked during the course of the month.
Electronic Handsets
In addition to working within the warehouse, the implementation of electronic handsets for drivers when out on delivery also ensures that the parcel is signed for and tells the system almost immediately that the parcel has been delivered. This is beneficial as it allows the courier to have the signature of the recipient on files to refer to should a complaint be made, helping to secure them against any potential concerns or claims. Electronic handsets, therefore, reduce the risk of human error as it ensures that no paperwork is lost and that every delivery is ticked off as it happens.
Technology has already begun to make a mark within the parcel delivery industry to improve the efficiency of the overall service and allow you to have the best possible experience with your chosen courier every single time. Who knows what the future might hold.
