Most people anticipate the arrival of an online order the moment it is placed. It’s especially satisfying when packages arrive on time, or earlier than expected. Whether it’s a time-sensitive gift, pet food that you’re running low on, or simply an item that you have been looking forward to receiving, you have last mile delivery drivers to thank.
What is a Last Mile Driver?
Last mile delivery drivers operate at the final step of the supply chain. The role of a last mile driver is to deliver a package from its transportation hub to its destination, usually a place of residence or a business.
Last mile drivers need to be timely and professional when delivering a package, but also safe when driving and careful when it comes to handling items.
Since it is the homestretch of the supply chain and involves customer service, companies consider it the most crucial step in the delivery process.
Responsibilities may include:
- Retrieve orders from their respective hub
- Navigate using GPS software
- Punctual adherence to delivery times
- Care in handling packages
- Ability to safely pack items into vehicle
- Scan order upon loading it and update status after delivery via last mile carrier tracking technology
- Ability to lift at least 50 pounds
What is Required to Become a Last Mile Driver?
While past experience is not typically necessary, it can be seen as a bonus to a potential employer.
If you don’t have experience, don’t worry! It is common during the training process for a seasoned driver to accompany you on your first few shifts to show you the ropes.
Common Last Mile Driver Requirements:
- Depending on your state, being at least 18 or 21 years of age
- A high school diploma or a GED equivalent (not always required)
- A valid driver’s license with a good driving record
Some employers may require a background check and/or drug test, depending on the company and/or state.
Once you meet these qualifications and complete your training, you may be heading into a very promising career path. By 2030, the projected number of delivery drivers is expected to increase by 12% (bls.gov).
With the continued growth of the e-commerce industry, there is expected to be an increased demand for delivery drivers— especially for large companies such as Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.
Last Mile Carrier Tracking
As technology has advanced, the industry has too, especially in the last couple of years. Technologically-sound checkpoints have become increasingly crucial from both customer service and commercial standpoints.
For a company to compete in the age of instant gratification, last mile carrier tracking is an essential part of the last mile delivery driver’s job.
Last mile carrier tracking provides information to the customer regarding an order’s delivery status and location. Examples of last mile tracking include the following:
- Real-Time Transit Information - Real-Time Transit Information (RTTI) provides customers with the whereabouts of their order including its ETA, status, and alerts of any possible delays.
- Proof of Delivery - Proof of delivery falls under the responsibility of the last mile driver, and can include photos of a package on a customer’s doorstep, scanned barcodes, or a customer’s signature.
- Text Alerts - Text (SMS) alerts are usually sent when the order has been processed, shipped, and when the last mile driver is en route.
Last mile carrier tracking is an optimal technology that opens the lines of communication between the driver and recipient.
Not only is it handy for the customer, but it was also designed to make a driver’s job easier too!
Is a Driving Job for You?
From food delivery services like Grubhub and DoorDash, to well-known companies like Amazon, the demand for delivery jobs is expected to continue to increase.
If you think a last mile delivery driver job would be something you’d enjoy, now is the perfect time to find a driving job near you!
References:
- Last Mile Carrier Tracking
- Delivery Truck Drivers and Driver Sales Workers on BLS
- Last Mile Delivery Guide
Further Reading: