Dynamic Route Planning

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Dynamic route scheduling FAQ's

• What is dynamic route scheduling?

  Dynamic route scheduling is optimising delivery routes where deliveries change every day. Dynamic route scheduling software (also known as Multidrop route planner software) will enable an efficient and flexible delivery operation. 

  Each set of daily delivery routes will be different and depend upon the orders being delivered that day. Many businesses employ static routes for clients have set days/times for delivery. Businesses that have a diverse client base and dynamic order mix use dynamic route optimisation. Each day’s order mix, volumes and delivery locations will determine delivery routes. This can change each time an order is received up to a cut-off time selected by the planner. 

• How does dynamic route scheduling differ from static route planning?

  Static route planning is where fixed delivery routes are created in advance and executed to a set frequency (daily, weekly or other). Static routes are common where the same customers receive deliveries on a regular and predictable basis. Whereas dynamic route scheduling adjusts routes on-the-fly as orders are received, creating different routes for the next day or week’s deliveries. . 

  It is possible to calculate routes for a mix of static and dynamic deliveries and this is known as hybrid route planning.

• What are the benefits of dynamic route scheduling?

  Being able to dynamically adjust routes for the mix of deliveries as they are received, improves delivery efficiency, reduces costs, CO2 emissions and provides a better customer experience with accurate delivery times.  

  Calculate your possible fuel and CO2 savings here.

Technical questions

• What data is used for dynamic route optimisation?

  Dynamic route optimisation utilises traffic direction, flow and time of day, depot locations, delivery addresses, vehicle capacity, and can take into account deliveries over several days.  Descartes dynamic route scheduling will also improve future routes using historical data and machine learning.  

• How often are routes recalculated?

  With Descartes dynamic routing software, the calculation is continuous, meaning that potential delivery slots can be offered back to planners and customers in seconds. The most optimal delivery slots can also be costed and highlighted to encourage selection.

• Can dynamic route scheduling be integrated with existing systems?

  Yes, Descartes dynamic route scheduling software integrates with existing systems such as ERP software, warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS) and telematics, along with our own electronic proof of delivery and customer delivery notifications solutions. 

Business impact questions

• How does dynamic route scheduling affect driver productivity?

  Using advanced algorithms and continuous optimisation, Descartes’ dynamic route scheduling creates optimal delivery routes with the highest delivery density and shortest mileage per delivery possible to meet customer demand.

• Can dynamic route scheduling help reduce fuel consumption?

  Yes, being able to calculate deliveries across multiple depots and days means that highly optimised delivery routes are created with the minimum of mileage per delivery. Lower mileage gives lower fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions, so also better for the environment.

  Calculate possible fuel and CO2 savings here.

• How does dynamic route scheduling improve customer satisfaction?

  Due to the quality of real-life data and the accuracy of the optimised routes ETA’s and short delivery windows can be provided to the customer with confidence of meeting them. Delivering within in a short window of time at the committed time, improves customer satisfaction.

• What is the return on investment for dynamic route scheduling?

  The return on investment for dynamic route scheduling can be measured in terms of reduced management and planning time, reduced operational costs, increased driver productivity, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced fleet productivity. It might also be possible to reduce your fleet size or do more with your existing fleet.

  Contact Us for a specific and detailed ROI for your fleet operation. 

Implementation questions

• How long does it take to implement dynamic route scheduling?

  The implementation timeline varies depending on the complexity of your operations and the chosen software options, along with your rollout plan. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

• What are the challenges of implementing dynamic route scheduling?

  Common challenges when introducing any logistics software will include data integration, employee training, and overcoming any resistance to change. However, with proper planning, training and execution, these challenges can easily be mitigated, Descartes has already installed dynamic route optimisation software in hundreds of businesses.

  Customer Successes.

• How can I measure the success of dynamic route scheduling?

  Key performance indicators (KPIs) will be the best way of measuring the success of dynamic route scheduling, for example: 

  • On-time delivery rates. 
  • Fuel consumption. 
  • Miles per delivery. 
  • Driver productivity. 
  • Customer satisfaction. 

   

  But you could also consider measuring and monitoring: 

  • Time spent planning deliveries. 
  • On the Road (OTR) Failures - Number of failed deliveries while out for delivery e.g. due to drivers running out of time at the end of the day. 
  • Service times, how accurate are the times you allow. 
  • Whether peaks in demand have been smoothed over several days. 

Additional questions

• Can dynamic route scheduling handle different vehicle types (e.g., vans, trucks, motorcycles)?

  Yes, Descartes’ dynamic route scheduling software can accommodate different vehicle types such as HGV’s, smaller commercial vehicles, cars and motorbikes or bicycles, taking into account their specific constraints.

• Can dynamic route scheduling be used for food delivery or other time-sensitive deliveries?

  Yes, dynamic route scheduling is particularly beneficial for time-sensitive deliveries as it helps ensure on-time delivery and food freshness. Being able to provide more accurate estimated delivery times and shorter delivery windows, helps ensure that the customer is ready to receive the delivery at the prearranged time and reduces customer anxiety, improving satisfaction.

  Read Food & Beverage logistics software.