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Delivery Route Planning Guide + 10 Best Delivery Route Planner Apps of 2024

Upasana Das

Written By
Upasana Das

Published on March 25, 2023

Last updated on January 10, 2024 • 14 min read

Running a commercial business is no walk in the park, and one of the key features that give your business an edge and maintain customer loyalty is fast and smooth deliveries. Transportation companies hired by firms for logistics incorporate delivery route planning to simplify the process. 

Several tools are available in the form of a delivery route planner app that provides cutting-edge solutions to make the entire delivery supply chain process seamless and cost-effective. This app helps you optimize your route, which means that it directs the transporter to opt for the most economical route for transit, considering every factor to make the journey more and more efficient. 

However, the market is filled with several options for delivery route planner apps; each with its unique personality; hence in this article, we will resolve all your doubts about the functionality of these apps, why they are important, and the key features of the most trending and used apps for route planning so that you can make the right choice for your logistical requirements. 

Table Of Contents
  1. What is Delivery Route Planning?
  2. Why is Delivery Route Planning Important?
  3. What is Delivery Route Planning Software?
  4. Key Features to Look for in Delivery Route Planner Apps
  5. How To Plan Delivery Routes?
  6. Best Delivery Route Planner Apps in 2023 
  7. Ending Note: Quick Wrap Up
  8. Delivery Route Planning: FAQs

What is Delivery Route Planning?

Delivery route planning is a very important part of any logistical operation to ensure that customer orders are fulfilled with the least possible time and money. It is the planning of economical delivery routes using smart planner tools such as a delivery route planner app which considers external factors and comes up with the most accurate and efficient route for every logistics operation. 

Earlier businesses used traditional methods of route planning such as local guides and even considered Google maps as a planning tool; however, the increase in the demand for timely online deliveries, especially after the pandemic and the inaccuracies of the traditional methods of route planning, had increased inefficiencies in the delivery ecosystems. Although Google maps provide accurate navigation techniques for individual and small-scale transit, it does not function as a dedicated route planner app and hence cannot efficient deliveries in large

volumes. 

WareIQ – Amazon-prime Like Logistics for Modern Brands in India

WareIQ, an eCommerce fulfillment company, empowers online brands with a superior-tech platform to compete with Amazon like service levels by bringing their average delivery timelines from 5-10 days to 1-2 days.

"WareIQ came to Gynoveda with a full stack fulfillment platform & gave Gynoveda access to a nation wide network of fulfillment centers & last mile & hyperlocal courier partners closer to our customers based out of North East & North India. They made same-day delivery possible for us in metros."
- Vishal Gupta, Founder, Gynoveda

Why is Delivery Route Planning Important?

Why is delivery route planning important?

Businesses do not head out on the road to make bulk deliveries without proper planning and management. No prior planning of routes can put these businesses at a huge and expensive risk. On the contrary, a good and planned route can – 

  • Reduce the transporters’ time on the route.
  • Ensure timely deliveries to the customers and enhance their experience, satisfaction, and loyalty.
  • It can make sure that the delivery fleets are used to the maximum capacity
  • It can improve the financial performance of businesses
  • The overall efficiency of the drivers and other staff is increases
  • The consumption of fuel is minimal
  • No unnecessary or extra delivery costs are imposed, allowing you to produce offers to customers.
  • No unplanned hazards or delivery routes will have to be dealt with.

What is Delivery Route Planning Software?

A delivery route planning software uses data and analytics with the help of machine learning and codes to plan a sequence of stops that a delivery agent follows to improve their driver efficiency as well as overall customer service. This software is used to make optimal routes for the entire fleet based on the business’s limitations and goals. 

The delivery route planner apps also automate the entire operation by scheduling capabilities and ensuring that the work is assigned strategically, it assists the dispatchers, doubles the daily delivery system by calculating travel time beaten locations, and at the same time, overcomes various challenges using data analytics that traditional routine planning would fail to impose. 

Sometimes, a delivery route planner software can also enable a dynamic re-routing system that is based on the external crisis during transit. 

Suggested Read: What is Last Mile Delivery Management Software?

Key Features to Look for in Delivery Route Planner Apps

key features to look for in delivery route planner apps

Route Optimization

After the destination is finalized, the app must be able to create efficient routes considering every factor, such as avoiding highways, traffic, congestion, toll roads, etc. This manner of route optimization will allow the driver to travel reduced distances and save maximum time on delivery transit. Reports from past delivery, capacity parameters, and other data are then utilized for future route planning, driver assignment, etc so that future shipments and deliveries can be made on time and save money.

Route Monitoring

Delivery route planner apps mine real-time data about the fleet, the driver as well as the assigned route to ensure optimal fleet efficiency. This data allows the software to monitor the assigned route and make changes in the operation whenever required. It allows certain variables, such as the fleet capacity, driver’s performance, route restraints, loading and unloading time, etc, to be more defined and accurate for future deliveries.

Driver Tracking

Route planning software collects real-time data of the drivers so that they are provided with constant support during their transit. Features like the GPS are used to keep track of the driver’s activities, their performance stops taken, etc, in the form of tracking history. It also keeps the customers updated about the estimated Arrival time of their package to increase transparency and avoid delivery failures. 

Delivery Status

The customers are constantly updated about the delivery status during its transit through features such as automatic SMS and email notifications. It allows the customers to know exactly when to expect the delivery, whether it is on its way, and if it is completed or not. Such detailed status of deliveries reassures the customers and makes the entire operation transparent and easy to track. 

Suggested Read: What is Fulfillment Status?

Customer Communications Updates

Delivery route planner apps must have 24*7 and strong customer support to acknowledge their queries about the delivery and have updated real-time communication with the customers. Having robust customer support can level up their delivery experience. 

Proof of Delivery

The best delivery route planner app will have a feature that provides proof of delivery with an interface that allows drivers to collect e-signatures from the consignee, which is then automatically included in the chain of custody, These multifunctional features in the applications enable the drivers to manage their deliveries and keep updated records of the shipment. 

How To Plan Delivery Routes?

Delivery route planning has been a part of business operations for a long time. Before the development of software that automated these processes, businesses preferred the manual way to plan routes. Some small businesses for fulfillment use this method to date, and it starts by receiving an order from a customer in the store or online. This is then left to be handled by an individual.

The order is written down on a piece of paper in the form of delivery invoices that contains information such as the address, preferred date and time of delivery, cost of delivery, etc. Businesses maintain physical records of these invoices; some may use excel sheets for the same.

The route planner will arrange these invoices based on the date, region, and specific delivery requirements. He/she will create several groups and then find the shortest routers from one delivery location to the other. This can be done by manually putting delivery locations on a map and getting ETA and drivers’ directions. After planning, the routes are then assigned to the drivers who head out to execute the deliveries. 

Manual route planning systems are not very accurate and do not provide you with the fastest route possible. As an alternative, and thanks to the digital transformation of businesses, 51% of companies are already investing in automating the route planning system through online software. 

All you need to do is integrate a delivery route planning software that uses cloud technology to operate. This allows you to access the system from anywhere at any given time. It plans your routes with multiple stops, automates scheduling, adjusts and updates routes in real-time, dispatches the drives, tracks and monitors their progress, sends notifications about ETAs, incorporates proof of deliveries, and at the same time, has customer feedback and query feature. You can say goodbye to manual operations and plan better with a single click using this software. 

Best Delivery Route Planner Apps in 2023 

Onfleet

delivery route planning app_Onfleet
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Onfleet is one of the most trusted apps for delivery route solutions opted for by enterprises across varied industries. It is a last-mile delivery platform that plans and sets the most advanced routes allowing the drivers to make smart decisions, undertake a seamless operation, and provide a remarkable customer experience.

One of the most unique features of the app is that it creates individual profiles of the drivers with their start-to-end location, schedule shifts as well as vehicle capacity. Once the routes are optimized by the app, the drivers can be dispatched. They have access to the app using their own devices, and you can constantly keep tracking their performance and order status. 

RouteXL

delivery route planning app_RouteXL
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Route XL is a free delivery route planner app suitable for smaller enterprises and delivery services that allows 20 stops per route on its free version. It works by finding the best multi-stop route for the entire logistics eCommerce operation. The only thing you need to do is app both the departure and destination locations, and the algorithms calculate the best possible route with the least amount of time.

However, changes in real-time and automatic updates are not available for both the drivers or the customers, there is no mobile app or proof of delivery available for this software. The paid version, which starts at $39 per month, only allows you to increase your stops per route. 

Mappr

delivery route planning app_Mappr
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Mappr is also a basic delivery route planner app that is very similar to RouteXL. The app is integrated with a delivery management solution software called Tookan with no additional monthly charge. It allows you to generate the shortest route possible for the addresses that have been fed and optimizes your fleet based on the type of vehicle, its volume, speed, fuel efficiency, etc.  Mapper allows you free 50,000 transactions and can be upgraded up upto 1 million for $ 209 per month. 

Google Maps Route Planner

delivery route planning app_Google Maps
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Google maps can act as a route planner tool apart from individual navigation. However, it does not have inbuilt features to take into consideration all the factors like vehicle capacity, fuel efficiency, delivery time, and so on. Hence it is not reliable software for large delivery fleets.

You can add 10 points, including start to end, on google maps, which makes it safe for use by smaller companies with much smaller delivery targets. Google maps are free to use; they can find locations based on business types, the maps can be shared, and location pins can be added to the map along with lines and shapes. 

MapQuest Route Planner

delivery route planning app_mapquest route planner
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MapQuest Route Planner app is one of the best free delivery route planner apps for personal and professional use. It allows you to optimize routes for up to 26 addresses for free on a trip, and the feature can be used for a single driver only. Although the free version has a limited number of stops, you can add multiple destinations using the paid version.

It offers optimal routes for both one-way and round trips. The app consists of advanced routing features such as U-turns, toll roads, etc. MapQuest allows users to choose between the shortest time and the shortest distance so that they can plan the best route for their delivery. The drivers can get the routes through text messages and view them on their mobile navigation apps. 

Route4Me

delivery route planning_route4me
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Route4Me is an excellent collaborative delivery route planning software that allows remarkable options for teams of up to 10 drivers using the basic plan. It offers route optimization and management in its free version, and if you require an upgrade, you can get a subscription of $249 per month to get access to its unique features. The app allows you to plan multiple routes, provides business insights as well as tracks the shipment in real-time. 

Upper Route Planner

delivery route planning_upper route planner
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Upper Route Planner is one of the most preferred apps for delivery route planning and optimization. They offer a 7-Day free trial to its users to ease their decision-making process. It is used by several small and medium-sized courier and retail services. Upper’s saves 10 hours per week and delivers 3 times more parcels with the help of their route optimization algorithm. Some of its key features include – single-click route dispatch, route scheduling, real-time tracking and proof of delivery, custom settings based on the vehicle type, etc. 

Circuit

delivery route planning_circuit
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The circuit route planner app was developed with salient optimization features for two user types Circuit for teams and circuit for individuals. This app is a go-to for most small and medium enterprises allowing them to manage their data to-day delivery routes with the help of key features such as a real-time tracker for drivers, automated notifications for customers, space to add delivery notes for the users, and so on.

It also consists of a package finder to facilitate the delivery process at each stop. Further, the app lets the users accurately track the ETA’s of the parcels, and it can be used through both Google and iPhone navigation apps. Some Apple users did find certain issues with the app and had to reinstall it. 

OptimoRoute

delivery route planning_Optimo Route
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OptimoRoute includes automated planning, live tracking, and real-time route optimization based on changing factors en route. The route delivery planner app allows you to plan deliveries up to five weeks in advance, analyze the driver’s performance and distribute their workloads, and it collects data to give you reports on your performance. Further, the app provides flexible subscription plans and lets you import thousands of orders, and automates the scheduling and delivery route planning. 

Road Warrior

delivery route planning_Road Warrior Route Planner
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This app allows users to plan routes for up to eight stops or 50 optimized stops for free. It lets users plan multiple routes at the same time and live-track all the deliveries. Further, the app is efficient for both individual users as well as an entire team and considers essential factors such as traffic, automatic scheduling, availability of routes, etc, 

Ending Note: Quick Wrap Up

The overwhelming features of the software that are integrated into today’s delivery route planner apps are making it easier to part ways with traditional methods. The response to this software is remarkable, especially because they are easy to use and consists of interactive interfaces. The problem lies in choosing the best amongst the crowd, and only you can evaluate your business requirement with the features available for a particular software to get the maximum results possible. Hence, choose well, choose wisely. 

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Delivery Route Planning: FAQs

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Upasana Das
Author

Upasana Das

Upasana is a content marketing analyst at WareIQ. She has more than 5 years of experience in content development and copywriting. Her key responsibilities include writing well-researched SEO-based blogs. Her niche of writing expertise includes supply chain, eCommerce, warehousing and fulfilment, and SaaS, among others.

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Increased Operational Efficiency: Streamlined order management reduces manual work and errors. Expert Support: A trained operations team allows businesses to focus on core activities. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Timely deliveries contribute to higher customer loyalty. Partnering with WareIQ equips businesses with the tools needed to excel in hyperlocal delivery. By leveraging its comprehensive fulfilment solutions, companies can streamline logistics while ensuring exceptional customer experiences across platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart. Conclusion In conclusion, hyperlocal delivery represents a transformative shift in how goods are delivered in urban environments. By focusing on speed, efficiency, and local engagement, this model not only meets consumer demands but also supports local economies. As the hyperlocal delivery market continues to grow, businesses must adapt their strategies to harness its potential fully. Understanding what hyperlocal delivery entails and why it matters will empower businesses to stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. By embracing this innovative approach, companies can enhance customer satisfaction while fostering community ties—ultimately driving growth in today's fast-paced economy. FAQs About Hyperlocal Delivery What is the meaning of hyperlocal delivery?Hyperlocal delivery is a logistics service that focuses on delivering goods within a small, specific geographic area, typically within a few miles. This model allows businesses to fulfil orders quickly, often within hours, by utilising local resources and nearby merchants. It caters to immediate consumer needs, making it an essential service in today's fast-paced market.How does hyperlocal delivery work?How hyperlocal delivery works involves several key steps:Order Placement: Customers place orders through mobile apps or websites linked to local retailers.Order Processing: Local businesses prepare the items for dispatch once an order is received.Delivery Assignment: The order is assigned to nearby couriers who pick up the items and deliver them directly to the customer.Real-Time Tracking: Customers can track their orders in real-time, enhancing transparency and trust in the service.What are the benefits of hyperlocal delivery for businesses?The hyperlocal delivery business model offers numerous advantages for businesses:Faster Delivery Times: Orders can be delivered within hours, significantly improving customer satisfaction.Cost Efficiency: Shorter delivery distances reduce transportation costs and fuel consumption.Enhanced Customer Experience: Quick service fosters loyalty and encourages repeat business as customers appreciate timely access to products.How does hyperlocal delivery differ from traditional last-mile delivery?While both hyperlocal delivery and last-mile delivery involve transporting goods directly to customers, they differ significantly:Geographic Focus: Hyperlocal delivery operates within a limited radius (typically 5-15 kilometres), while last-mile delivery can cover larger areas.Speed of Service: Hyperlocal deliveries are usually completed within 30 minutes to 2 hours, whereas last-mile deliveries may take longer due to broader geographic coverage.Type of Products Delivered: Hyperlocal services often focus on essential items like groceries and medicines, while last-mile deliveries can include a wider range of products.What role do technology and data play in hyperlocal delivery management?Technology plays a crucial role in hyperlocal delivery management by streamlining operations and enhancing customer experiences. Key aspects include:Mobile Apps: User-friendly apps facilitate order placement, payment processing, and real-time tracking for customers.Route Optimisation: Advanced algorithms help delivery personnel navigate the most efficient routes, minimising travel time.Data Analytics: Businesses leverage data to understand customer preferences, optimise inventory management, and improve overall service efficiency.

November 21, 2024
What is SCRR and How It Impacts Your SAFE-T Claims on Amazon: A Detailed Guide

What is SCRR and How It Impacts Your SAFE-T Claims on Amazon: A Detailed Guide

Handling returns is one of the biggest challenges for Amazon sellers. To stay profitable and keep customers happy, it's essential to understand Seller-Controlled Return Rate (SCRR) and how it impacts your business. SCRR is a key metric that measures returns that are directly attributed to the seller's actions or issues, such as product defects, incorrect listings, or inadequate packaging. Managing SCRR effectively is crucial to maintaining strong seller performance metrics and eligibility for programs like Amazon Prime or Buy Box placement. What Is SCRR? (Seller-Controlled Return Rate) SCRR, or Seller-Controlled Return Rate, refers to returns that are caused by factors within the seller's control. This includes issues like inaccurate product descriptions, defective products, poor packaging, incorrect items being shipped, or expired goods. A high SCRR can negatively impact your seller performance, leading to account warnings, suspension, or disqualification from programs like Amazon Prime. Reasons for SCRR Classification ReasonDescriptionExampleInaccurate Product DescriptionThe product listing contains incorrect or misleading information, such as wrong dimensions, features, or materials.A seller lists a product as "100% cotton," but it actually contains synthetic fibers.Defective or Damaged ProductsItems that are shipped in poor condition or are non-functional upon arrival.An electronic gadget is shipped but doesn’t turn on due to a manufacturing defect.Poor PackagingInadequate packaging that leads to product damage during transit.A fragile item like glassware breaks during shipping due to insufficient padding.Wrong Item ShippedSending an incorrect product or a variation different from what the customer ordered.A customer orders a size 'L' shirt but receives size 'S'.Expired ProductsParticularly for consumables or beauty products, if an expired product is sent, it directly impacts the seller’s accountability.A cosmetic item delivered past its expiration date.Missing Parts or AccessoriesProducts with missing components or accessories.A smartphone shipped without a charger or user manual.Delays in FulfillmentFailing to fulfill an order on time, leading to customer dissatisfaction.An item promised for next-day delivery arrives after a week.Customer Complaints About QualityReturns due to dissatisfaction with product quality, even if subjective.A customer claims the fabric of a garment feels cheap compared to the description. Impact of High SCRR Performance Metrics: High SCRR rates negatively affect your seller performance score, which can lead to account warnings or suspension. Loss of Buy Box: Sellers with frequent SCRR issues may lose access to the coveted Amazon Buy Box. Reduced Profit Margins: Frequent returns lead to increased costs due to reverse logistics and damaged inventory. Program Ineligibility: High SCRR rates can disqualify sellers from programs like Amazon Prime or Seller Fulfilled Prime. How SCRR Impacts SAFE-T Claims Amazon's SAFE-T (Seller Assurance for E-commerce Transactions) claims process allows sellers to seek reimbursements for losses due to issues beyond their control. However, when returns are classified under SCRR, it can directly impact your eligibility for SAFE-T claims. For example, if the return is due to poor packaging or an inaccurate product description, Amazon may deny your SAFE-T claim, considering it to be the seller's fault. Therefore, managing and minimizing SCRR is key to improving the chances of a successful SAFE-T claim. How to Reduce SCRR ActionDescriptionOptimize Product ListingsEnsure accurate, detailed, and honest descriptions of your products. Include high-quality images and specify dimensions, materials, and features clearly.Quality ControlConduct thorough checks on your inventory before shipping to ensure defect-free and functional products.Improve Packaging StandardsUse robust and secure packaging materials, especially for fragile or perishable items.Fulfill Orders PromptlyMeet shipping timelines consistently and communicate proactively if delays occur.Customer Feedback MonitoringAct on feedback and reviews to identify patterns or recurring issues with specific products.Batch and Expiry ManagementFor consumables, monitor stock closely to avoid sending products nearing expiration. Leveraging WareIQ's Returns QC App To further enhance returns management and reduce SCRR, consider utilizing WareIQ's Returns QC App. This app automates the collection of high-quality visual documentation during the returns process, ensuring compliance with marketplace guidelines and providing robust evidence for claims. By integrating this tool into your operations, you can streamline returns processing, improve claim approval rates, and maintain better control over your return metrics. Non-SCRR Returns Returns that are not classified as SCRR are typically situations where the seller is not at fault, such as: Customer Change of Mind: The customer changes their mind or finds a better alternative. Product Doesn't Fit or Suit Preferences: Returns due to subjective preferences or size-related issues. Shipping Damage by Carrier: Items damaged during transit by the shipping provider. Incorrect Address Provided by Customer: Delivery issues caused by incorrect shipping information supplied by the buyer. Related read: Amazon's SAFE-T Program Claim: Seller Guide 2024 Conclusion Understanding and managing SCRR is vital for maintaining a successful Amazon selling strategy. By optimizing listings, improving quality control, ensuring timely fulfillment, and leveraging tools like WareIQ's Returns QC App, sellers can minimize SCRR, protect their performance metrics, and maintain eligibility for valuable Amazon programs. Proactively addressing return issues and adhering to best practices will help sellers protect their business from unnecessary losses and maintain a positive customer experience. For more guidance on improving your returns process and reducing SCRR, explore our resources or contact WareIQ for tailored solutions to streamline your Amazon business. FAQs About SCRR and SAFE-T Claims What is SCRR on Amazon?SCRR stands for Seller-Controlled Return Rate. It measures the percentage of returns that are attributed to seller issues, such as product defects or incorrect listings.How does SCRR affect my Amazon business?A high SCRR can lead to negative impacts on your seller performance, including account warnings, suspension, and loss of eligibility for Amazon programs like Prime.Can I file a SAFE-T claim for an SCRR-related return?Typically, no. If the return is classified as SCRR, Amazon may deny your SAFE-T claim because it considers the return to be due to a seller issue.How can I lower my SCRR?Focus on improving product quality, providing accurate descriptions, and ensuring proper packaging. Leveraging tools like WareIQ's Returns QC App can also help.

November 20, 2024