How smart last-mile delivery tech boosts click and collect reliability

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"Such technology can address vulnerabilities in the click-and-collect chain by improving the efficiency, speed and accuracy of the delivery process," she says.

Some of the ways it can assist include:

• Detailed tracking and monitoring: The tech can provide accurate tracking and monitoring of deliveries, allowing retailers and customers to track the progress of orders and receive updates on delivery times. This can help to reduce the risk of lost or delayed orders and improve the overall customer experience.

• Predictive analytics: It can use predictive analytics to optimise delivery routes and schedules, reducing the risk of delays and improving delivery times. By analysing data on patterns, nationwide conditions and other factors, smart delivery tech can ensure that deliveries are made on time and with maximum efficiency.

• Automated delivery systems: The tech can also incorporate automated systems and processes to improve the efficiency and accuracy of deliveries. These systems can help reduce the risk of human error and ensure that deliveries are made quickly and reliably.

Click and collect challenges

Gerber says it is not in dispute that existing click-and-collect systems have their weaknesses.

For instance, limited collection points can be inconvenient for customers who may have to travel long distances to pick up their orders.

Another problem many retailers face is a limited range of delivery options, something that can be extremely frustrating for customers who may prefer to collect at a specific delivery time or location.

Inefficient processes such as manual order processing and communication can also hurt a business badly, as these often result in delays and errors.

Arguably the worst of the bunch is a lack of transparency, which makes it difficult for customers to track their orders and understand the status of their delivery.

Gerber says Pargo’s tech, for example, addresses these weaknesses by leveraging its network of pickup points, offering flexible delivery options, streamlining the order fulfilment process and providing detailed tracking and communication.

Reviewing and adjusting services

A large part of this process is constantly analysing collection time and accuracy, monitoring order volume and sales data and calculating return on investment.

"By regularly reviewing and adjusting the service based on these metrics, retailers can make sure it is meeting customer needs and contributing to business growth," Gerber says.

"Click and collect technology continues to evolve of course, so retailers need to always be on the lookout for the "next big thing" in the industry. Basically, if it will make the lives of customers easier, it will need to be implemented,"

"Pargo, for example, is already eyeing the future in this regard. Living tracking, a consumer-facing app that enables anyone to send a parcel from a pickup point, and cash on collection are just some of the innovations in the pipeline," Gerber concludes.