Real-time tracking

What is real-time tracking?

Real-time delivery tracking is a solution used to make transit times more reliable. Every step of the process, from loading to bulk breakages and delivery are known and analysed, and any obstacles are immediately countered. The fierce competition that has reigned in the business world since the appearance of e-commerce moguls, the customers’ need for immediacy and an idyllic purchasing experience, expensive stock management, all require perfect real-time delivery management, with a constant view to enhancing efficiency.

Real-time delivery tracking is based on the use of applications, vehicle geo-location, RFID (radio frequency) to assess stock levels, and many other IT tools.

 

Specificities of real-time tracking

Real-time tracking makes it possible to:

• Receive exact data, which provide additional resources to better drive your logistical performance criteria;
• Improve working conditions and productivity amongst employees, whilst maximising rounds and loading, and avoiding any bulk breakage;
• Thanks to all of these actions, the vehicle fleet available can be optimised;
• Ensure delivery in line with customer expectations, and with high reliability which reassures all partners;
• When the information is shared with buyers, loyalty amongst previously dissatisfied customers can be enhanced.

 

Examples and practical applications

Real-time tracking software

The most-used applications trace the cargo throughout the entire supply chain, constantly recording real-time data: location, partners in charge of the goods, potential delays, route change, etc. When an order is placed, the sender provides the professional or private customer with access codes to their website or application. The software specialised in real-time delivery tracking can be viewed from a computer, smartphone or tablet. The package or delivery is identified thanks to a code. This code must simply be entered on the dedicated page to find the right information about the delivery.

Complex real-time delivery tracking

Traceability tools make it possible for people to know what stage the order is at.

• Customers are warned about the pending order’s status - from preparation all the way through to dispatch.
• Traceability data is displayed by scanning a bar code.
• The order’s status is determined following analysis of the data entered into the distance selling management software - which may or may not be embedded.
• During transport, tracking is used to follow up on the package’s location within the supply chain.
• The package’s bar code is scanned on the dock after being unloaded.
• It is scanned again upon arrival at the intermediary logistical platform.
• Lastly, it is scanned upon arrival at the end customer’s.

All this information is automatically processed by the transporter’s software - who can inform the customer of where their package is. Upon delivery, the customer’s signature on the terminal is sent out electronically and finalises the process. All this in real time. Following this, satisfaction is assessed so any weaknesses can be improved and any strong points can be enhanced.

 

Regulatory cornerstones

• Supplier’s general terms of conditions of sale.
• Supplier’s commercial sales contract.
• General terms and conditions or purchase.