Stories by Bettermile on Medium

<figure><img alt="Technological cooperations for parcel logistics" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*06RKDpP6ebP5OqCoAyKEYg.jpeg"></figure>How can a collaborative mindset put parcel logistics firms ahead? In the world of parcel delivery, the full potential of data sharing remains untapped. Many organizations preserve damaging silos that undermine innovation and efforts to maximize value from their assets.
With this article, we want to break a lance for technological cooperation and share how Bettermile promotes synergies in the parcel logistics space.
<h4>A reluctance to collaborate</h4>
There are various reasons why logistics companies are reluctant to exchange knowledge and share information. These include technical difficulties and concern about offering competitive advantages to others.
This mindset is mistaken <a href="https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/data-sharing-is-a-business-necessity-to-accelerate-digital-business">according to Gartner</a>.
<blockquote>“Organizations that promote data sharing will outperform their peers on most business value metrics,” the management consultancy company has stated.
</blockquote>
By considering partnerships and strategies that generate mutual benefits, logistics companies can enjoy substantial improvements in performance.
<h4>What kind of synergies can logistics companies profit from?</h4>
The most important opportunities arise from data sharing. Companies can:
<ol>
<li>Share data internally across departments</li>
<li>Allow third parties to use their data</li>
<li>Buy data</li>
<li>Create a data partnerships with other firms</li>
</ol>
<h4>What value does data sharing offer?</h4>
Data sharing propels innovation and helps companies stay before technology trends. It leads to a bigger data pool which companies can tap into to derive valuable insights from them. The effect: more efficient operations, reduced costs, and a better customer experience. Ground-breaking new business models have arisen from information and knowledge sharing.
The advantages of an open-data mindset are backed up by statistics. A <a href="https://www.capgemini.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Final-Web-Version-of-Report-Data-Ecosystems-1.pdf">2021 Capgemini study</a> found that, “By engaging in data ecosystems, organizations have, on average, improved customer satisfaction by 15%; improved productivity/efficiency by 14%; and reduced costs by 11% annually in the last 2–3 years”.
<h4>Big tech fires up the competition</h4>
The rise of E-commerce has transformed the parcel delivery landscape over the last fifteen years. Especially the last mile operations have become more complicated now than before — with more waypoints, a growing number of parcels to deliver, and higher customer expectations compared to the past.
Drivers that used to do the same journeys and use their own knowledge to complete tours are now routinely using digital technology. The entry of Amazon and other tech companies in the logistics market has forced traditional parcel service providers to make more data-driven decisions and initiate a digital transformation.
<figure><img alt="Data sharing represents a unique chance for parcel logistics." src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*fZfceQfCXnxQdD5nZrbapA.png"></figure><h4>Fostering a culture of collaboration</h4>
​When it comes to sharing, we at Bettermile know how to make it happen. A good example of this is our <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/bettermile-offers-even-more-precise-delivery-locations-thanks-to-new-what3words-geocoding-17d6978a02ad">partnerships with what3words</a> and Google. You might have thought that these geocoding providers were our competitors. However, we have joined forces to offer the logistics industry more precise delivery locations. With Better Places we created a software product that integrates the most innovative location and geocoding solutions and tailors their services to the parcel logistics industry.
We relish the potential for synergies across our product suite. Bettermile has <a href="https://www.here.com/about/press-releases/en/bettermile-and-here-technologies-extend-cooperation-to-improve-last-mile">teamed up with HERE Technologies</a> to enable more accurate traffic, routing, location, and address data for dynamic route calculation and real-time tracking.
We also engage in pilots with innovative startups such as <a href="https://youtu.be/ZzZe2w1aqQg">Truemetrics, who specializes in motion data</a>, to trial ground-breaking tech for the parcel delivery use case.
Arrangements like these mean that parcel service providers get tailored solutions for their business cases that integrate the leading and most innovative technologies in the market.
<h4>Last Mile Delivery Meetup and the power of sharing</h4>
Our resolve to share logistics know-how and push for innovative ideas led us to found the Last Mile Delivery Meetup.
This event series is designed to facilitate connections and spread knowledge across the parcel logistics space. The gatherings include talks by prominent speakers who take us behind the scenes at their companies — revealing insights that have real-world applications.
The Last Mile Delivery Meetup provides a platform for the last mile delivery community to delve deeper into the challenges of innovating parcel logistics, and create a better experience for customers and delivery drivers alike.
Are you in search of synergies to improve your business? Feel free to <a href="https://bettermile.com/last-mile-meetup">register for our upcoming Last Mile Delivery Meetup here</a> and make some new connections.
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Why creating synergies in parcel logistics is a big deal

<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*RRdDc3-ueg_8KltWYd70zA.png"></figure>Delivery efficiency is becoming more and more important in the last mile. Today, in this section of the supply chain, there are <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/tech-startups-fire-up-the-race-to-transform-last-mile-delivery-b3858246ef00">disruptive technologies</a>, demands for greater customer satisfaction, and new market entrants such as Amazon. These factors are increasing pressure on companies to streamline operations and improve delivery performance.
To remain competitive in this space, it’s essential to understand the last mile delivery KPIs (key performance indicators) because your firm can’t make cost savings without understanding the current state of your business. Analyzing these 7 delivery KPIs will help you grab more market share at a lower cost.
<h4>What’s delivery performance?</h4>
Delivery performance is about how effectively you create positive working conditions for your drivers and fulfill both consignee expectations and the broader needs of your business.
<h4>What are the benefits of measuring delivery performance?</h4>
Understanding your delivery KPIs helps you improve your CX, drive greater efficiencies in the delivery process, scale your operations, and create a better working environment for your team.
<h4>What are the 7 delivery KPIs?</h4>
1. On-time delivery rate
Are your drivers completing their deliveries on time? This delivery KPI is about tracking the number of deliveries that are fulfilled within the expected delivery timeframe.
For parcel logistics, it’s an important metric because late deliveries can damage customer loyalty. <a href="https://smallbiztrends.com/2019/10/delivery-statistics.html">According to a study done by Oracle</a>, 13% of customers will not buy again from a firm if their order isn’t delivered on time.
2. Transit time
This delivery KPI focuses on the time taken from driver pick-up to consignee drop-off. There are plenty of advantages to understanding this metric well. For example, it can help you provide customers with an <a href="https://elogii.com/blog/delivery-performance/">expected time of arrival</a>.
3. Delivery cost per unit
In addition to considering expenses like vehicle maintenance and labor overheads, it’s important to track key performance indicators that can reduce environmental impact. For example, monitoring fuel consumption can not only help reduce costs but also provide insights into your carbon footprint.
4. Accuracy in order fulfillment
In this part of the assessment look beyond simply the total number of deliveries and the deliveries with errors in your delivery operations. Additional details to consider include your geocoding success rate, the number of returns, and the number of items that go missing during deliveries.
5. Vehicle load efficiency
Loading a delivery vehicle correctly is an art. Some drivers do it well, others not so well. That’s why it’s important to measure vehicle capacities and compare them with the capacity actually used in the delivery process. Also, relevant in this area is the amount of time it takes drivers to load their vehicles.
This delivery KPI has applications in terms of identifying employees that might need additional training.
6. Customer satisfaction
CX (customer experience) is a popular buzzword in many industries these days. And last mile delivery is no different.
It’s vital to know to what degree customers are happy with your service. Then, when performance drops or <a href="https://www.accenture.com/_acnmedia/pdf-95/accenture-last-mile-delivery-meet-customer-expectations.pdf">customers’ expectations evolve</a>, you can make adjustments quickly — staying ahead of the curve.
Amazon is aware of the centrality of CX. That’s why, via their post-delivery emails, they’ve created an easy-to-respond feedback funnel.
7. Overall number of completed deliveries
This key performance indicator helps judge overall delivery performance. It works best when either paired with another delivery KPI or segmented into different areas such as location or service type. If you’re looking to scale up your company, you’re probably going to be looking at this number a lot.
So, now you understand more about the state of health of your business. What’s next? How can you raise your delivery performance level? Here are two quick tips.
First of all, <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/unlock-the-power-of-route-optimization-9fb9f53e1c17">route optimization</a> provides <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/gls-spain-saves-15-minutes-on-every-delivery-tour-with-better-places-c8873fa7c1eb">improvements in on-time delivery rates</a>. The latest software offers drivers the chance to optimize processes and enhance customer satisfaction with real-time tracking and visibility software.
Second, you can use a location intelligence solution to help you find addresses faster and increase delivery performance.
<a href="https://bettermile.com/">Bettermile</a> offers both these services and more. Let’s get going. Book a demo with our experts <a href="https://bettermile.com/book-demo">here</a>.
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Do you want to improve your delivery performance? Here are 7 delivery KPIs to analyze

<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*uocZBMuQOLJJPHg6fzW9FA.png"></figure>Dynamic sequencing is central to the transformation of route optimization software for parcel logistics. Dynamic sequencing makes routes more flexible and efficient — elevating the overall performance of your parcel logistics firm.
When we talk about the benefits of dynamic sequencing the conversation often turns to <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/unlock-the-power-of-route-optimization-9fb9f53e1c17">route optimization</a>, cost savings and reductions in tour time. But the list of advantages doesn’t stop there. The latest route optimization software also empowers drivers and improves the customer experience (CX).
This article highlights the missed opportunity that exists for firms that continue to rely on static route sequencing systems.
<h3>What’s sequencing for last mile delivery?</h3>
Route sequencing is the process of finding the best order of stops for a specific workflow. In parcel delivery, it can happen that the nearest stop can not be attended because there is a time constraint (last minute packages to pick up before heading to the next stop for example). Therefore the optimal route is not always the shortest route. First the sequence of delivery stops needs to be determined and then the most efficient route can be calculated.
Static sequences are the traditional way of working. They can be configured by an algorithm or by a person. The important point is that these routes are calculated before vehicles leave the depot and once made they can’t be amended.
<h3>What are the disadvantages of a static sequence?</h3>
Pain points include the following:
<ul>
<li>
Inefficient: Without the flexibility to alter journey plans, drivers don’t follow the most efficient routes and resources aren’t used optimally across a fleet. The end result is that vehicles get under-utilized or are unable to complete their tours. This leads to additional costs in wages, fuel, and vehicle maintenance.</li>
<li>
Poor fleet control: Your depot managers have no real-time overview of the whereabouts of their drivers. They lack the power to amend journeys and the data to understand the progress of teams.</li>
<li>
Leads to unreliable ETAs: Because your routes can’t adapt to real-time events such as traffic and weather conditions projected delivery times have insufficient accuracy</li>
<li>
Can’t incorporate last-minute requests: Once vehicles leave the depot you can’t adjust the order of deliveries in response to new requests such as priority packages</li>
<li>
Complicates same-day deliveries: With routes fixed in advance, the system lacks the dynamism to adapt to narrow-window delivery requests</li>
<li>
Drivers are passive: There is no way for teams to use their on-the-ground knowledge to manually adjust routes</li>
</ul>
<h3>What’s dynamic sequencing?</h3>
In this system no two routes are the same. Delivery stop sequences and routing paths vary according to the specific needs of the moment.
This routing software uses advanced tech to optimize delivery routes on the fly. It means you can reoptimize routes manually or leave it to the algorithm to automatically adjust.
<h3>How does dynamic sequencing work?</h3>
On-the-spot route optimization
The central attribute of the software is the ability to quickly change routes and adapt the ETAs in response to real-time events such as:
<ul>
<li>Weather conditions</li>
<li>Actual and historic traffic conditions</li>
<li>Road works</li>
<li>New orders</li>
<li>Changes in driver availability</li>
<li>Changes in delivery time windows</li>
<li>Any load constraints</li>
</ul>
<h4>Fleet management support</h4>
Dynamic sequencing offers advantages for not just drivers and consignees but also depot teams.
Managers can monitor real-time fleet performance metrics such as delivery efficiency and driver workload. So, if issues arise during a tour, responses are timely.
<h4>Intelligent load support</h4>
The most advanced tech incorporates loading guidelines. These tips for best practice teach your teams how to pack vehicles with maximum flexibility. This reduces the likelihood of having to deliver a specific package solely based on its location in the back of the vehicle.
<h3>What are the benefits of dynamic sequencing?</h3>
<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/994/1*hnWssqeU61lhoODaJ650RA.png"></figure><h4>Empowers drivers</h4>
Drivers have first-hand knowledge of routes which adds value to your operations. With this in mind, the latest route optimzation software lets drivers add, split and merge stops or manually override routes on the go. Detours such as lunch breaks are also easier to integrate thanks to the flexibility of the route planning.
Static route optimization doesn’t allow for any human input. Unable to make any decisions for themselves, this leaves drivers feeling powerless. In contrast, dynamic systems appreciate and encourage team engagement.
<h4>Improves productivity</h4>
At the end of the day, the key to a successful business is a strong bottom line.
So, you’ll be pleased to hear that the cost of implementing dynamic route planning software is insignificant when you factor in the cost savings on offer. The list of performance-related benefits of route optimization include:
<ul>
<li>Fewer empty kilometers</li>
<li>Less money spent on fuel</li>
<li>Less money spent on wages</li>
</ul>
<h4>Lowers emissions</h4>
Seven years on from the <a href="https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement">Paris agreement</a>, companies have a responsibility to act as role models in the battle against climate change.
<blockquote>
<a href="https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_the_last_mile_ecosystem.pdf">The World Economic Forum says</a> that, “Advanced analytics and Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions such as load-pooling and dynamic re-routing could contribute to an overall scenario that reduces [parcel logistics] emission by 10%, unit cost by 30%, and congestion by 30%.”</blockquote>
To stretch the limits of what’s possible in the fight for reduced emissions we need new thinking. Part of this change of mindset involves the adoption of next-level route optimization. As a sector, last mile delivery is still a long way from net zero, but implementing route optimization is a positive step on the way to a greener future.
<h4>Better customer experience (CX)</h4>
In today’s business landscape, a job well done isn’t simply a matter of completing orders from consignees. It’s also important to consider how those orders are completed.
For customers ETAs matter. So it’s good to know that one of the benefits of dynamic sequencing is the <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/how-machine-learning-helps-predict-an-accurate-eta-2380beb31879">super-accurate delivery estimates</a> that minimize the chances of frustrating customer delays.
Managing and supporting the customer relationship is also smoother and easier thanks to the integration of automatic alerts. Add on top of this, faster turnarounds through route optimization and more options for priority deliveries and you can see why a key reason to switch to dynamic routing software is the impact these systems have on the CX.
<h3>How will the product develop in the future?</h3>
Looking into tomorrow, dynamic sequencing should continue getting better and better.
Personalization could be a crucial area of development. A demand already exists for narrower delivery windows, and we expect a market to emerge for other value-added services such as individually-selected delivery schedules.
<h3>Last mile delivery. Radically better.</h3>
As a tech company in the parcel logistics space, we at Bettermile specialize in smarter last mile delivery. Our software suite includes the latest <a href="https://bettermile.com/route">dynamic sequencing software</a>.
For a more in-depth exploration of our services, get a free demo <a href="https://bettermile.com/book-demo">here</a>.
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Why is dynamic sequencing important for last mile delivery?

<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*_FSpJDWLJzDkXeZCs0lfdw.png"></figure>How to choose a delivery platform for your business There are many delivery management platforms and route optimization solutions out there, each with their own unique features and special talents. Though many of the features are broadly similar, key differences between different solutions mean that the decision you make about your delivery platform will ultimately determine a lot about how your business is able to perform, scale, and fulfil its duties.
Admittedly, here at Bettermile we have some skin in the game to say the least, but we want to focus on the products and compare features without valuing them. That’s why we’re launching a new series of articles comparing Bettermile’s features with those of its closest competitors. Our first series? Bettermile vs Onfleet!
Platform vs modular tech integration Onfleet provides a broad delivery platform which also includes delivery management, dispatching features and fleet management. It is used in various industries. In contrast, Bettermile has a strong heritage in logistics and focuses on developing SaaS solutions for last mile parcel delivery.
Businesses that decide to work with Onfleet need to build their business logic around the platform’s approach to delivery management. For businesses that are just starting out, or with smaller operations, Onfleet is a perfect solution. However, such a one-stop-shop solution can limit businesses that want to scale their operations further down the line.
With its apps, API’s and SDK’s, Bettermile offers last mile solutions that allow for a deep integration into an already-existing system, and hence adapt to the business logic of the delivery company.
For example, with Bettermile, it is possible to use the driver navigation app on a second device. This allows them to continue using existing processes, devices, and functionality while still getting the advantages of Bettermile.
Onfleet vs Bettermile: Choosing the right delivery management platform for your business needs Onfleet’s platform model works well for smaller businesses like flower shops or for food and grocery deliveries. For these kinds of services, features that allow customers to call or message the driver come in handy and can help drivers save time and improve customer experience. However, this can quickly become cumbersome when a delivery driver needs to deliver 100 or more packages a day — he or she simply does not have the time to respond to calls or individual wishes.
Bettermile develops its products with the aim of making the delivery driver’s day as seamless as possible. The goal is that delivery drivers can focus on driving and the delivery operation, rather than dealing with unexpected issues. Bettermile does this by considering a great variety of constraints and variables in their dynamic route optimization software which can affect the delivery tour (for example: traffic, opening hours, delivery time frames, last-minute pickups etc) and recalculating the delivery route as these constraints change. In the eyes of Bettermile, for parcel delivery operations of scale or complexity, dynamic sequencing is a must.
Onfleet’s route optimization solution as well offers turn-by-turn navigation, traffic updates, and time frame scheduling. However, it seems that routes are planned before the delivery tour and are not recalculated on the fly. This means that the delivery sequence cannot adapt to the realities of a tour (for example if the delivery driver chooses to drive differently due to last-minute pickups or other unforeseen situations). Onfleet’s software does let you alert your drivers of any last-minute route changes.
Real-time tracking: Both Bettermile and Onfleet use real-time tracking to provide customers with regular <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/how-machine-learning-helps-predict-an-accurate-eta-2380beb31879">predictive ETA</a> updates, show them the location of the delivery vehicle on a map, and give them the opportunity to rate the delivery. Bettermile excels at providing narrow delivery windows; sometimes as narrow as 10 minutes. Both offer a branded order tracking experience for retailers and ecommerce platforms. Dispatchers and warehouse managers can support drivers in real-time and increase their overall performance with both solutions.
When you are considering one of these solutions, it’s advisable to inquire about the analytics and management tools. Both companies provide comprehensive dashboards but the KPIs measured may vary.
Location intelligence: Onfleet does not offer specific features to improve address quality or geocoding success rate. Bettermile not only provides <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/the-secret-to-a-good-address-validation-solution-address-normalization-742ef222aa47">address correction and validation</a> services, but also offers a geocoding service. With <a href="https://bettermile.com/places">Better Places</a>, its location intelligence team provides smart address data that can improve geocoding by 2–10%, allowing for more efficient deliveries and happier drivers and customers.
Onfleet vs Bettermile. Which one should you choose? Onfleet and Bettermile both offer a route optimization solution but they serve fundamentally different needs. Onfleet’s robust feature set provides a schema for companies to design a logistics operation from the ground up. On the other hand, Bettermile’s flexibility and built-in capability for deep integration mean companies don’t need to redesign their existing processes. For companies that are interested in scaling while preserving the logic of their existing operations, this offers comprehensive benefits.
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Comparing last mile delivery solutions: Bettermile vs Onfleet

<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/977/1*1HPiQbb0CDV1XXAn8WLuGA.png"></figure>Meet Stephan Georg, a geocoder for last mile delivery. He has played a pivotal role in developing an algorithm for address normalization that has not only reduced costs but also increased the quality and quantity of successful geocoding. In this interview, Stephan shares his journey as a data engineer and his insights into the challenges and opportunities in the world of geocoding and last mile delivery.
Tell us about your journey as a data engineer. How did you become one and what was your journey?
I started studying IT and founded my first company focusing on web development. However, when many companies came to me with very specific problems to solve, I realized that there was a great opportunity to work in data analytics with a focus on geocoding. Google Maps had just released its API, and for me it was the discovery of a world of greater opportunity. The tools were just starting to come out and that was the start of my journey as a geospatial Data Analyst.
Then I started my second company where we did a lot of geospatial processing and geospatial visualization for companies. That was the beginning of finding unstructured data and helping companies achieve their goals.
Can you give us some insight into your work? What challenges do you face? What are your daily tasks?
We are currently working on two challenges. One is scaling and internationalization, we want to expand our service to new countries and that means we need data. Since there is no single source of data, we need to find sources, evaluate the quality of the data and aggregate it. I am defining the processes so that later we can divide the work accordingly.
The second is to improve our services. We get feedback from our User Insight and Support team about address issues. We cluster them and then, based on those clusters, we find solutions to the most important ones.
The biggest challenge is scaling and working on the next version of geocoding for last mile delivery. We learn a lot from our User Insight and Support team about the current address problems.
What are you most proud of in your work?
When I joined <a href="https://bettermile.com/">Bettermile</a>, we had no address normalization. The cost of geocoding skyrocketed because we had to outsource it. But after some work, I developed a prototype for address normalization.
The idea was that most of the addresses we receive have different spellings, but the results are the same. We wanted to find a way to normalize them. What we needed to do was:
1) Develop an algorithm that allows us to understand the address and its components;
2) Once we have those components, we need data to match them with the other spellings so we can generate a single address.
By implementing it, we found that we could not only save costs, but also increase the quality and quantity of successful geocoding.
What makes Better Places unique?
<a href="https://bettermile.com/places">Better Places</a> is the geocoder for last mile delivery. We have access to a huge amount of knowledge from all the people who physically enter postal addresses into our system every day, and this gives us the opportunity to turn our knowledge into a digital product. The driver can read the label and understand where to deliver the parcel based on their local knowledge. No other geocoding provider has this kind of information.
The typical geocoder use case is to take an address and provide the coordinates for delivery. What Better Places does is gather knowledge from the drivers and their historical delivery attempts to not only translate the data into a coordinate, but also normalize it.
According to you, what is the future of geocoding/address normalization?
The future is to provide more information needed for last mile delivery. But providing geocoding is only the base in my opinion.
In addition, we want to provide more insights about addresses, building information, parking information… anything that can help the driver save time.
Why do you enjoy working at Bettermile?
First of all, the team, the people and the office are really nice and I really enjoy the atmosphere.
But from a technical perspective, it’s the access to a huge amount of enterprise data. Before I was working with other startups that didn’t have access to that much data, we were trying to find solutions to what we thought were problems. But here, we are really looking at the real problems and we are finding solutions to them.
From a product point of view, I really enjoy solving real problems and being able to have a direct impact on a product.
Want to learn more about Better Places? Tap <a href="https://bettermile.com/places">here</a>.
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Building a Better Last Mile: Challenges and Solutions in Geocoding

<h4>
<a href="https://bettermile.com/last-mile-meetup">Last Mile Delivery Meetup</a> #2 Review</h4>
<h3>Geospatial — the Magic of Location in Delivery</h3>
<h4>On February 15, 2023, Last Mile Delivery Meetup staged the latest round of their event series. The central theme for discussion was Geospatial — the Magic of Location in Delivery.</h4>
The gathering was held at the Bettermile HQ in Berlin. 800 logistics enthusiasts registered for the event, 100+ attended onsite to join the networking session. The Last Mile Delivery Meetup had a global audience, attendees ranged across 400+ organizations and 25 countries.
<figure><img alt="Simon Seeger, Bettermile" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/1*WjUbTW-stnWVroYHKVvdMw.jpeg"></figure><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*pOvVPGyU-5UW22_GTbnouw.gif"><figcaption>Welcoming words by Simon Seeger, Managing Director at Bettermile</figcaption></figure><h3>Event highlights</h3>
The meetup kicked off with some uplifting words from <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonseeger/">Simon Seeger</a>, the Bettermile Managing Director. During his speech he ran through the pain points associated with addresses and locations in last mile delivery — suggesting that improvements in this area can be the “difference in productivity” and the “difference in user experience”.
Simon talked candidly with the audience about the need for collaboration. He said that parcel logistics firms should realize that they aren’t really rivals. “The real competition is big tech,” he said before rallying the crowd with a sketch of how innovation leads to continued relevance and productivity.
<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/1*TEYJB68OGzqIHGRqaxzp1w.jpeg"></figure><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/1*Wlr-JwuguuPahxXsI2Wj4Q.jpeg"></figure><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/900/1*4a9LAE8g1LqtsfjwIeLcCw.jpeg"></figure><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*g6sFdE_J3JYVE7xQ6WtnKg.jpeg"></figure><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/1*gwT0nlX8EpJoXeZl5LySWg.jpeg"></figure><figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/900/1*20hqh703S5Cpoq9y1CKgew.jpeg"><figcaption>Impressions Meetup #2, Feb 15, 2023</figcaption></figure><h3>Optimizing delivery with geospatial intelligence</h3>
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/octavioherreraguardiola/">Octavio Herrera</a>, Senior Product Owner Location Intelligence at Bettermile, spoke next.
He summarized the importance of location data for last mile delivery in a simple and digestible way. After taking time to clarify the downsides of bad data, he discussed the benefits of address normalization for geocoding.
According to Octavio, there is still lots of knowledge about addresses that has yet to be digitized. Bridging the gap between the technology and driver knowledge is a challenge he is taking on with the Better Places geocoding api.
During the Q&amp;A session, he referenced the recent <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/product-update-adding-driver-knowledge-to-better-places-30ca01f9275f">Bettermile move-the-pin software update</a>. It means delivery drivers can now move the address pin on the map when they encounter inaccurate geocoding.
<h3>New era. New electric vehicles.</h3>
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidninoles/">David Niñoles Asin</a>, Iberia Innovation &amp; Customer Solutions Responsible from GLS Spain, took the mic after Octavio.
The standout moment from David’s talk was when he discussed carbon footprint calculations and how the demands of the era of the EV will impact location in delivery. His point about factoring in the need for charging points was particularly insightful. It gave everyone in the room pause for thought.
<h3>Location in delivery: the perspective of Hermes</h3>
The best thing about the Last Mile Delivery Meetup is that it brings together people and companies from across the parcel logistics sector.
So it was great to hear views from <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-reddehase-02731a65/">Alexander Reddehase</a>, Head of Last Mile Development at Hermes Germany. Hermes is a major operator in Germany with 11,000 couriers and 16,000 parcel shops. In 2020–21 Hermes delivered 444 million parcels.
During his segment, Alexander gave a thorough overview of Hermes operations. He placed emphasis on CO2 reduction and customer satisfaction in last mile delivery.
In terms of strategies to manage problems with location data, Alexander outlined six key area:
<ul>
<li>
Retailer checkout: He explained how online shops can create a specific address format for customers to follow. This prevents problems in the formulation of addresses.</li>
<li>
Automated label reading: He discussed how the use of Optical Character Recognition for C2C parcels reduces the chances for error.</li>
<li>
Address correction: He ran through how Hermes has an address correction system on its logistics site.</li>
<li>
Geodata: He went into some detail about how his company optimizes last mile geodata by working alongside partners such as Here Technologies.</li>
<li>
Analytics: Finally, he offered a review of the after-delivery data analytics system which Hermes uses to fine-tune their service.</li>
</ul>
<h3>See into the future</h3>
The presentation from <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingo-boegemann-a78800bb/">Ingo Boegemann</a>, Co-founder of <a href="https://www.truemetrics.io/">Truemetrics.io</a>, was a chance to learn what parcel logistics will look like tomorrow.
Using sensors in drivers’ mobile phones, Truemetrics.io provides algorithms for position motion data. It offers an improved understanding of driver location during a tour. In the future — it seems — we’ll be able to know where the driver is right up to the moment they reach the consignee front door. This development has crucial applications in terms of performance management and improvements in efficiency.
<h3>The closing debate</h3>
At the end of the meetup, Simon Seeger moderated a group chat with the speakers.
One discussion topic was false positives. Although some solutions were suggested by Ingo Boegemann, it seems that false positives remain a significant problem.
<blockquote>“Currently, with a false positive, the system comes to an end,” said Alexander Reddehase.</blockquote>
<h3>Watch the recording of the Last Mile Delivery Meetup #2: Geospatial</h3>
<a href="https://medium.com/media/de51d1efded3b2f80b06bc1156022f44/href">https://medium.com/media/de51d1efded3b2f80b06bc1156022f44/href</a><h3>The Last Mile Delivery Meetup</h3>
The Last Mile Delivery Meetup brings together established courier &amp; parcel service providers and innovative start-ups to contribute to an exchange of experiences and know how. Industry experts provide conceptual and technological insights into topics like Operations Analytics, Geospatial, Route-Optimization, Dispatching, Location Intelligence, Machine Learning, Big Data, and discuss innovative software solutions for last mile delivery.
Do you want more information about the event series? <a href="https://bettermile.com/last-mile-meetup">Click here</a>..
To stay informed about upcoming events, please follow Bettermile on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/bettermile/">Linkedin</a> or join the <a href="http://pages.bettermile.com/newsletter">newsletter</a>.
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Geospatial — the Magic of Location in Delivery

<figure><img alt="Better Places Product Update: move pin on map" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*FOAPGggC2iyFYffVT16eKg.png"></figure>AI is central to winning efficiencies in last mile delivery. But technology is only as good as the data it uses. That’s why it’s vital that parcel logistics companies have the best address data possible.
On-the-spot knowledge of drivers is vital to creating this top data set.
Who knows delivery locations the best? It isn’t depot managers or product developers. It’s the drivers themselves. Each day delivery drivers out on tour store a wealth of address information in their heads. Everyone benefits when we harness that knowledge.
At Bettermile we’ve been asking these questions for some time:
<ul>
<li>How can we transfer address knowledge from one delivery driver to the next?</li>
<li>How can we prevent delivery fails and delays from getting repeated?</li>
</ul>
We have now set an important step in creating a feedback loop between delivery drivers and the <a href="https://bettermile.com/route">routing application</a>. Drivers can now move the pin on the map when they encounter inaccurate geocoding.
<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*fvYNolAoSsCeedaM5KBiCg.png"></figure><h4>How does ‘move-the-pin’ work?</h4>
Basically, the driver can start a fact-checking process. It means that, for example, when the delivery driver realizes that the entrance to a building is on the other side of the road than is suggested by the geocoding service, they can move the pin to the correct location.
Or, if your driver discovers that a parcel address refers to a new building that doesn’t appear on screen, they can move the pin — assimilating new learning to the database.
That way the knowledge is stored and the next driver that arrives on-site will save time.
To make sure the update only improves the quality of address data we’ve also integrated filters that safeguard against errors.
Overall, the move-the-pin feature is an important step in fine-tuning your address database. It allows you to combine on-the-spot knowledge with the services provided py Google, Open Street Map, HERE Maps, EIRe Codes, or what3words.
<h4>What specific benefits does the product update offer?</h4>
<ul>
<li>
Overcome address errors with on-the-spot knowledge</li>
<li>
Store the learning of teams. So when drivers leave your company their knowledge isn’t lost.</li>
<li>
Empower drivers with more fulfilling working conditions. Tech is better when you can train it to overcome errors.</li>
<li>
Make happy consignees. Incorporating driver knowledge means more parcels delivered first time.</li>
</ul>
Bettermile’s move-the-pin software update has been created through in depth analysis of the parcel delivery industry. It offers a solution to the key question of how to integrate on-the-spot driver knowledge into address databases.
Curious how Better Places works? Read this <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/address-cleansing-geocoding-for-parcel-delivery-logistics-12f768695b0e">blog article about the address correction &amp; geocoding solution</a> or <a href="https://bettermile.com/book-demo">book a demo</a> with the product owner.
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Product update: adding driver knowledge to Better Places

<figure><img alt="Address normalization: The secret to good address validation" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*8H8vcYf3ojcclTy7VS8yhw.png"></figure>If you work in the delivery industry you are probably familiar with the pain that poor address data can cause. You may also be aware of solutions for address cleansing and address validation. But few have heard of the secret ingredient that takes address processing and geocoding to the next level: address normalization.
<h4>An efficient way to standardize and validate an address</h4>
Address normalization for delivery refers to the process of standardizing addresses for the purpose of accurate delivery of mail, packages, or other shipments. This involves transforming addresses into a uniform format that is recognized by the relevant postal or delivery service, such as the United States Postal Service (USPS) or other official (national) address databases. The goal of address normalization is to ensure that deliveries reach the correct location without delay or misdirection. This is achieved by removing inaccuracies, inconsistencies, and variations in spelling, punctuation, and abbreviations used in the address. By normalizing addresses, delivery companies can improve the accuracy and efficiency of their delivery operations, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction.
The power of address normalization lies in its ability to efficiently process and compare addresses. By splitting an address into components and giving each component a defined tag, it becomes very easy to match addresses against a specific database. Read the article “<a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/what-is-address-normalization-2f1dfa4205fe">What is address normalization</a>” to get a full understanding of the process.
For example, if an address is normalized and a component is tagged as a street name, you can check against any database to see if that street name exists. If the check returns a match, the street name has been validated against the given standard.
Once the address has been validated, you can transform it back to a different standard. This is useful if the raw data provided by retailers is recorded in a different way than that recognized by a geocoding service.
<figure><img alt="Definition of address normalization vs address validation" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*_yBkYgXO__5OUsXbN07YMQ.png"></figure><h4>Address normalization improves geocoding results</h4>
Geocoding is the process of converting addresses into geographic coordinates, such as latitude and longitude, which can be used to place markers on a map or to perform spatial analysis. Inaccuracies and inconsistencies in addresses can make it difficult to geocode addresses accurately.
Address normalization can help to overcome these problems by converting addresses into a standardized format that is actually recognized and processed by the geocoding software. This can improve the accuracy and efficiency of geocoding, reduce the number of errors and misplacements, and enable more accurate and reliable spatial analysis.
To conclude, address normalization prevents the geocoding solution from being sent in the wrong direction. For example, there are many ways to write numbers in an address:
1st Street 1st St 1 Street 1. Street First street
Not every geocoder can handle all these variations. By normalizing the number into a component, you can choose a standard format and then give it to the geocoder to be sure it is a recognizable address that can be converted into accurate latitudes and longitudes.
<h4>Validating geocoding results</h4>
To check the accuracy of geocoding results, it is possible to normalize the address again and compare the results with a standardized address database. This geocoding address validation makes it possible to compare the results of different geocoding services. Better Places aggregates multiple geocoders, checks their geocoding results in a fraction of a second, and returns the best result to the delivery company. This validation process improves geocoding quality by 2–10%.
<h4>Can you handle these address validation challenges better than a geocoding service?</h4>
Are these variants of one address or different addresses? President JF Kennedy lane Kennedy STR Pres. JF Kennedy street
What is the house number? 1 King street 21 2 1. King Street King Street 2 / 233
Where is the airport? Général De Gaulle Charles De Gaulle Président De Gaulle
As you can see, without defining the address components like in an address normalization process, address validation can become quite tricky.
Is poor address data causing you headaches? <a href="https://bettermile.com/book-demo">Book a demo</a> with Octavio Herrera, Product Owner Location Intelligence, to find out how Better Places can help your business to deliver to the right location at first attempt.
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The secret to a good address validation solution: address normalization

<figure><img alt="BVB package tracking experience" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*uJ57lvpFGHjhiQfI64vXxA.png"></figure><h4>Football club delights fans with branded order tracking</h4>
Since 2019, Bettermile has operated <a href="https://bettermile.com/tracking">Better Tracking</a>, a package tracking service that offers consignees the ability to check the status of their delivery in real time. As a white-label parcel tracking application, Better Tracking enables brands to drive engagement with their customers on the last touchpoint in the customer journey.
In time for the holiday season, BVB chose to implement Better Tracking’s branded real-time parcel tracking into the BVB online fan shop. Since December 2022, customers who order BVB merchandise are treated to a BVB-branded tracking experience. But first, some background.
<h4>Football club with a celebrated history</h4>
BVB is a professional football club based out of Dortmund, Germany. Formally named the Ballspielverein Borussia 09 e.V. Dortmund, BVB plays in the Bundesliga, the top tier of German football. They have a long and celebrated history, having won eight national championships. The club also came out on top of the Champions League in 1997.
BVB has a well-established and iconic brand. Their black and yellow home kit, which inspired the affectionate nickname given to their fans sitting on the south stand of the Signal Iduna stadium — the Yellow Wall — is unique and instantly recognizable. Their slogan, “Echte Liebe” (“True love” in English), is featured at the stadium and on the team’s merchandise.
<figure><img alt="BVB branded parcel tracking" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*YvSueh7zZEiKV00sBgs6kg.png"><figcaption>“Kickoff! Your package is on its way!”</figcaption></figure><h4>BVB fans can track their package in real-time</h4>
Bettermile and BVB set out to provide their fans with a complete end-to-end shopping experience. The parcel tracking page, featuring the iconic yellow and black branding as well as football-themed UI text, allows customers to track their package’s real-time location on a map, following the driver as they move from delivery to delivery.
At checkout, <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/the-joy-of-real-time-parcel-tracking-e712d91d1cf1">the customer is excited to have placed the order</a> and looks forward to receiving the merchandise of their beloved club. The experience continues once the package embarks on the last mile of its journey to the customer.
At this point, the customer receives a notification that they can start tracking their package in real time. They can check the <a href="https://blog.bettermile.com/how-machine-learning-helps-predict-an-accurate-eta-2380beb31879">estimated time of arrival and see the progress of the delivery</a> by finding a little icon of a package with the BVB logo on the map. A stop-watch, as a reference to the referee’s timer, indicates the number of stops left.
<figure><img alt="Quote Natalie Panek, UX Designer at BVB, about Better Tracking" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/940/0*x0WuTWdVfuDpb6Ok"><figcaption>“Your package is about a halftime away.”</figcaption></figure><h4>Enhancing the brand experience for BVB customers</h4>
Research has shown that, of customers who are satisfied with the delivery process, 74% increase their spend with retailers, and <a href="https://www.capgemini.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Report-Digital-%E2%80%93-Last-Mile-Delivery-Challenge1.pdf">82% share their positive experience</a> with a friend or relative. Furthermore, 90% of people want brands to engage them during delivery. This is especially true when it involves changes to the parcel’s delivery status: <a href="https://parcellab.com/en/branded-tracking-page">56% of people want to be notified immediately</a> in the event of a delay.
The results of the collaboration between BVB and Bettermile seem to confirm these numbers: on average 60% of the customers who ordered products from the BVB online-shop, used the live package tracking application to check the estimated delivery time of their parcel. The high click rates are evidence of great user engagement. Indeed, the average user clicked eight times to check the location of their parcel. Customers appreciate the transparency and get a sense of empowerment because they can rate the delivery experience.
This engagement opens the door to reactivating the sales cycle. The tracking page offers a platform to promote other products and services and direct the customer to the next touchpoint.
<blockquote>“For a fan, ordering merchandise for their favorite club is something special. We are happy to enhance this experience and add to the joy with the Better Tracking service. It offers transparency and increases brand loyalty.”</blockquote>
says Svenja Czaja, Team Lead Digital Sales &amp; Wholesale.
<figure><a href="https://bettermile.com/tracking"><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*87OPt0l5zd9_VG6P0zl8fg.png"></a></figure><img src="https://medium.com/_/stat?event=post.clientViewed&amp;referrerSource=full_rss&amp;postId=663833fdc8d7" width="1" height="1" alt="">

Kick-off for BVB package tracking experience

<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/977/1*YPv3_8Cpbwsme1i-O1CXPg.png"></figure>As FullStack Engineer, Velten Heyn is managing the software and infrastructure for the full customer journey in last mile delivery. From processing and crunching real-time tracking data to displaying the current state of affairs on the visually appealing tracking website.
Tell us about your journey as an engineer. Did you always want to be one?
As a child, I have always had books with graphics about computers and it was immediately fascinating for me! I also remember when I was around 10 years old and my mom’s laptop broke down. I wanted to try to repair it with screwdrivers to put it together again and it worked! Even though it wasn’t perfect, I enjoyed the process.
My initial dream was to become a pilot, or help other people, which also made me want to go to England for one year and do social services for disabled children. I love working with people, but there has also always been the passion for creating something very graphical with something as simple as HTML and CSS, which you can influence so easily! That was a driving motivator to finish my studies in Computer Science in Berlin and to apply my knowledge to the field.
Can you give us some insights into your work? What challenges are you facing?
The Better Tracking team cooperates with companies that want to offer a branded tracking experience to their customers. We create layouts for the package tracking page and have to adapt the web app to the external partner’s interface. We want to enhance the user journey and show additional content on the tracking page that matches the specific delivery. We also display ads under the tracking window that we create for the partner. In the beginning, it wasn’t easy to make sure everything was smooth and worked fast.
Especially in December, during peak season, it can be challenging to process the huge amount of parcel data we receive from multiple sources in real time. Also, when it comes to reporting, it initially took us a considerable amount of time to finish all European reports, but after a few improvements, we were able to reduce the report creation time by half.
What are you most proud of in your work?
Hmm… That’s a good question! I’m mainly proud of my fantastic colleagues that I can always rely on. Also, I’m proud of the path that I took by getting to know lots of new technology and tools for the past 12 years. Thanks to that, I can support my team in finding the best solutions!
I would say enterprise-specific branding was a big project for us and one of the most successful ones. That’s why we, as a team, are proud of it and cannot wait to work with new partners!
What makes Better Tracking unique?
<a href="https://bettermile.com/tracking">Better Tracking</a> offers highly accurate ETAs with very narrow delivery windows. We can estimate the delivery time with a time window as low as 10 minutes. Moreover, we are highly focused on the user experience. Our web app is very accessible, clear, and well-designed!
At Bettermile we offer next-level solutions for last mile delivery. We keep innovating our real-time package tracking service. Currently, we are optimizing our machine learning module ‘Cloud Tracking’ to predict the estimated arrivals of parcels independently from GPS tracking.
What is the future of real-time tracking?
We would like to enhance the tracking and think beyond. For example, we can imagine that the driver could also fulfill additional tasks for the customer while picking up the package, like being able to order something from the pick-up point.
At the same time, we are thinking; What if we expand our tracking into other fields? Let’s imagine the tracking option for airplanes or your taxi driver. Having one app for every tracking would definitely be beneficial!
Why do you enjoy working at Bettermile? Mainly because it’s an open space where you can work with others on common solutions and have an influence on what you are doing. Your opinion always matters here, regardless of how many years of experience you have.
I enjoy the vibe we have in the office, and think our managing director, Simon, is an interesting figure because he always pushes people to think outside of the box. He encourages new ideas and creative solutions!
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Welcome to the Last Mile Delivery Meetup: Geospatial - The Magic of Location in Last Mile Delivery

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Join the Last Mile Delivery Meetup to get ahead of the trends in last mile logistics.