Spring 2007

A dynamic scheduling system that 'will revolutionise' last-mile delivery is being introduced by carrier APC.

'We will be able to send a driver out with a load, but no set route,' says APC managing director Quentin Abel. 'Consumers will be notified of the estimated time of arrival by SMS or email. If they are not going to be home, the driver can make the drop at a later time. At the very least, he can take the parcel back to the depot without wasting time on a failed delivery.'

Integral to this emerging system is the latest version of Intermec's handheld computer device, the CN3, which combines GPS, wireless LAN and Bluetooth to provide digital signature capture for real-time proof of delivery, as well as features such as imaging and task allocation.

'Combined with pre-arrival notification the day before delivery, we can provide the best possible information to consumers and give them the narrowest delivery window possible,' Abel continues. 'We think we can get the ETA down to within a twenty-minute accuracy.'

Traffic information will be added to the Intermec system so that the driver can use satnav to find an alternative route in case of accident, roadworks or severe congestion.

APC also plans to increase its use of mini-hubs to cut down on road miles. In addition to its major site in Bellshill, near Glasgow, the company wants to build mini-hubs in London, the West Country and M62 corridor. 'There is no point trunking parcels from, say, the West Country to the Midlands when they are going to another West Country address,' Abel comments. - Marcia MacLeod