With delivery expectations rising, businesses across industries are looking for cost-effective ways to increase delivery speed. Third party delivery services can be a fast and efficient way to improve operations and meet these rising expectations.
However, delivery service providers vary in quality and capability. Here are some five important factors to consider when evaluating delivery providers.
1. What delivery services do they provide?
It may seem obvious, but it’s important to start by assessing your delivery needs. In addition, you’ll want to carefully identify providers that can meet current and future customer expectations.
Here are some of the most common services offered by today’s leading final mile carriers:
Final or last mile
Omnichannel fulfillment
Reverse logistics
On-demand delivery
Multiple service tiers (e.g. first threshold to white glove)
Industry expertise
2. What delivery options are available?
It may be crucial for some businesses to provide flexible same-day delivery. For others, accurate scheduling and high on-time delivery rates are the most important. Sometimes, it’s all of the above!
Consider what delivery options you have today, what your customers demand, and what you need to gain a competitive advantage. An on-demand delivery provider can help you increase delivery speeds while shortening delivery windows for your customers.
3. What technology is available?
Are you able to integrate your technology to provide the customer with simple pricing? Make sure pricing is straightforward so there are no surprises for you or your customers. One important question: Is the pricing up front for your customers to see during purchase? This may require additional technology (more on that below). Additionally, it’s important to consider how the funds transfer. Will your business pay the service or delivery pro directly? Will you pay per delivery or per month? What about a contract? Check those terms and conditions and make sure the 3PL is cost-effective for your company.
Evaluating third-party delivery services?
4. What is their customer satisfaction score?
Of course, the actual service matters! A 3PL should work to complement your business, not hinder it. It’s important to make note of characteristics from both the third party company and the third party laborers. Third party workers should communicate clearly and delight your customer.
There are a lot of great Third Party Providers in the logistics industry right now! Deciding to outsource and enhance your processes can be a huge step in the right direction when trying to meet the increasingly demanding expectations of today’s retail consumer. Do some research, ask questions, and work to diligently find the right fit for your company. Ask to customize service levels or build new integrations if necessary! Your perfect 3PL is out there.
At Bungii we provide same-day, last mile, big & bulky delivery services. With customizable service levels and innovative reverse-logistics solutions, we are able to provide a variety of options within our virtual fleet. Connect with a member of our team today to learn about the value Bungii can provide your business.
5. Do they offer real-time order tracking?
Technology is ever-changing and wide ranging and it can be tough to keep up – even with a dedicated tech team. Some basics that you can look for include real-time GPS tracking and text-number-masking.
Give your customers peace of mind with the ability to track their items as they are delivered and safely communicate with drivers and delivery pros without risking personal information and safety. Additionally, is your business able to easily order and change deliveries or make special requests? 3PL tech should be able to successfully integrate into your current processes.
Conclusion
There are a lot of great Third Party Providers in the logistics industry right now! Deciding to outsource and enhance your processes can be a huge step in the right direction when trying to meet the increasingly demanding expectations of today’s retail consumer. Do some research, ask questions, and work to diligently find the right fit for your company. Ask to customize service levels or build new integrations if necessary! Your perfect 3PL is out there.
At Bungii we provide same-day, last mile, big & bulky delivery services. With customizable service levels and innovative reverse-logistics solutions, we are able to provide a variety of options within our virtual fleet. Connect with a member of our team today to learn about the value Bungii can provide your business.
