In the fast-paced courier work industry, keeping a finger on the pulse of the latest advances in technology is vital for companies that are looking to grow their business and stay relevant in a highly competitive environment. The following software packages are a few of the more popular solutions, which are designed specifically to make the management, analysis and operational procedures of courier work easier.
WorkWave Route Manager
This intelligent piece of software has a user-friendly interface and pretty much does what it says on the tin: it gives fleet managers access to a web-based route planner. The system has the potential to save hundreds of hours of manual work by identifying the fastest and most fuel-efficient routes to and from a destination within a few minutes. Managers can plan routes for multiple drivers as far ahead as required, and the software not only reduces operating costs, but can also trim mileage and fuel costs across the entire fleet.
OnTime 360
This delivery management software offers advanced features and superior connectivity, with a customisable portal and international support across 300 countries included in the monthly subscription fee. Offering everything from customer databases and billing and invoicing facilities to label printing, dispatch management and routing and scheduling services, OnTime 360 is an easy-to-use system with instant access to a wealth of information. Customers can track shipments within a couple of clicks, and both drivers and dispatch operators benefit from its power, flexibility and user friendliness.
Onfleet
Providing an easy-to-navigate interface for dispatchers and an intuitive smart phone app for drivers, Onfleet is a delivery management software system that allows in-house optimisation and deep data analysis. With an easy-to-integrate API (application programming interface) and excellent functionality, Onfleet can be used in conjunction with online ordering and numerous other operational systems. Drivers are able to manage their own deliveries and plan routes with the touch of a few buttons, and the software has the potential to facilitate significant efficiencies within a business.
Digital Waybill
Digital Waybill is a two-way dispatch system with GPS tracking that includes the fastest refresh-ability in the software industry. With intuitive web ordering and tracking, customers are able to monitor deliveries at any time of the day or night, while drivers are able to calculate commissions and generate automatic invoicing. Other features include easy integration with QuickBooks for accounting purposes, a highly customisable interface and excellent tech support.
Courier Exchange
Courier Exchange is the UK’s leading courier network, providing an invaluable service for drivers, firms and freight forwarders to connect in a safe online space. This popular exchange platform allows drivers to search for courier work in real time, with around 70,000 jobs posted every month. With instant messaging, accreditation checks, interactive maps and extremely easy integration with other software systems, the platform connects more than 4,500 industry professionals across the UK and Europe.
Future-Proof Technology
Great service and word-of-mouth recommendations are still important in the delivery industry. But in order to stay competitive and streamline operational procedures, investing in dedicated software solutions is not only good business sense, but also makes the lives of fleet managers and drivers significantly easier.
Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day courier work in the express freight exchange industry. Over 4,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.