Author: Elizabeth Korda

The hyphenated terms you will see in this article refer to the various processes that have to do with the delivery of goods. Knowing these terms and understanding these different steps will inform you on how to optimize your supply chain and manage your distribution time in a more efficient manner.  

Middle-MileLogistics 

Middle-mile logistics refers to the stage in the supply chain in which goods are transported between two warehouses. This logistics step starts its route from where the first-mile logistics left off last: goods are picked up from the manufacturer and delivered to a distribution center or warehouse. The middle-mile’s route ends after it has delivered goods to a facility.   

Optimizing Middle-Mile Logistics 

There are certain challenges and unpredictable things that can happen in the middle-mile, as with all logistics processes. In order to reduce these stressful occurrences, there are optimizations you can apply in the middle-mile journey. For example:  

  • Truckload planning 
  • Route scheduling 
  • Route dispatch  
  • Driver tracking 
  • Promptly resolve the unexpected.  
  • Create a contingency plan.

Last-Mile Logistics 

Last-mile logistics refers to shipping goods from a depot center to end customers. This stage picks up where the middle-mile left off while delivering the goods from warehouse A to warehouse B. Since last-mile logistics is one of the more misunderstood parts of the supply chain network, one of the top challenges is getting products to consumers with Amazon standards and rates. Another challenge has to do with some of the larger or more complex products needing extra effort and care: some goods might require assembly and white glove service upon delivery. Lastly, capacity can also be an issue: increased consumer demand paired with labor shortages in the freight industry has made quite the challenge in finding an optimal way to get your products to consumers.  

Overcoming Last-Mile Challenges 

Good news! There are four different solutions to the last-mile challenges. Whenever you find yourself in a tight spot with last-mile logistics, these tips will help make your process more streamlines and efficient. For example:  

  • Delivery lockers could hold products, like Amazon pickup locations 
  • Drones and robots can aid in delivery 
  • Route optimization tech can reduce last-mile challenges with capacity issues 
  • Shippers may start offering better incentives to truckers with fewer regulations and rules.  
  • Partnering with an industry expert 

At ShipSage, we can take the challenges of middle-mile and last-mile stages out of the sellers’ hands. We can do this because we have established valuable partnerships and connections with industry experts. Accordingly, we are a third-party logistics company with tracking capabilities (tech) and a dedicated client and warehouse team. Our services are simple, speedy, and scalable. Leave your fulfillment to us!