CLDA Mag : What should those in the industry do to start planning to meet escalating consumer expectations ?
Ditizio : Carriers should examine their largest expenses and determine if any could be mitigated by negotiating rates . They should also know their usage for items like shrink wrap and propane . Why not talk to suppliers now as you enter the budget season ?
Ludlow : Last-mile providers need to invest in technology that offers consumers flexibility and transparency . Planning should also involve building stronger partnerships with shippers and other stakeholders to ensure a seamless delivery experience , emphasizing communication and customer satisfaction .
Robider : A carrier ’ s plan must include open communication and alignment with customers regarding their expectations . This might mean collaborating on different delivery strategies to drive network improvement .
Osborn : Leverage technology , data , automation , and connectivity to create the visibility , e ! ciencies and quality communication consumers want to see with their orders .
CLDA Mag : What else should last-mile providers know about what to expect in 2025 ?
Ditizio : Carriers should use the tagline “ back to basics .” What I mean by that is the need to make sure they have all of the controllable aspects of the business in hand . This will free them up to better deal with the uncontrollable issues .
Ludlow : We ’ re hearing news of rising inventory levels among furniture retailers . If this is true , demand may not keep pace with supply . This can significantly affect companies delivering bulky , heavy items like furniture . For example , if retailers sit on excess inventory , they might place fewer orders for new stock . Retailers may also offer discounts or promotions to move their existing inventory , which could cause fluctuations in delivery demand . With higher inventory levels , it ’ s also possible retailers will need additional storage solutions . Companies in our space should explore offering temporary warehousing or extended storage services as part of their logistics network to assist retailers struggling with excess inventory . Finally , when retailers are dealing with inventory overstock , there is often pressured to control costs across the board . The winners will be those companies that are able to navigate increasing expectations for data , technology , and communication without significantly adding to delivery costs . It ’ s likely to be a challenge for everyone in the industry .
Robider : Open communication and alignment with customers regarding their expectations must be a part of a carrier ’ s plan . This might mean collaborating on different delivery strategies to drive network improvement .
Osborn : People now expect information and answers at the click of a button , and in 2025 , those who can provide accurate updates the fastest will most likely get the business . CLDA
22 customized logistics & delivery Magazine I fall / winter 2024