Top 10: Last-Mile Delivery Tech
Logistics works as a well-oiled machine, but the crucial last-mile is the final step to ensure customer satisfaction.
The parcel is transported from a local hub or distribution centre to the customer. Despite its vital status, it is a being reliant onlycomplex and expensive part of the logistics journey – particularly as customers demand greater visibility and speed.
Recent innovations have transformed the last-mile from being reliant only on a delivery truck. Now, there is greater flexibility in ensuring the package gets to the customer on time, with parcel hubs, booked slots and more, all giving the final customer greater control.
Supply Chain Digital takes a look at the Top 10 last-mile delivery tech innovations which are boosting the logistics industry.
10. Multimodal urban logistics networks
Providers: DHL Supply Chain, Amazon Freight
Stat: Using multimodal urban logistics networks could reduce the number of empty runs and vehicle kilometres traveled by up to 30%, according to the International Transport Forum
These networks combine all the best transport modes and emerging logistics technologies, covering every base and being ready for every possibility. An integrated network of cargo bikes, electric vans and autonomous drones are available to replace traditional truck-heavy models.
Through this, logistics companies can offer a more layered routing system, optimising the movement of goods in congested areas. Through this, organisations can reduce their emissions and costs, as well as operate more sustainably.
9. Crowdsourced delivery platforms
Providers: Curri, Uber, Deliveroo, Instacart
Stat: The global crowdsourced delivery platform market is valued at approximately US$18.2bn
Crowdsourced delivery platforms connect distributors with independent drivers in order to move materials. Customers place delivery requests, providing pickup location, drop-off location, size, type of materials being delivered and preferred delivery times. From there, the platform will match the best driver for the job before offering real-time tracking capabilities.
Through this, there is greater transparency and more streamlined logistics within the shipping stage. It is more cost-effective because it reduces the need for full-time fleets.
8. Cargo e‑bike delivery networks
Networks: Amazon, FedEx, EVRi
Stat: Most E-Cargo bikes can carry up to 100kg of rear carrying capacity
These networks are significantly expanding last-mile logistics solutions, replacing traditional vans with electric cargo capabilities. They are a more sustainable last-mile delivery option, often delivering groceries and smaller packages to customers.
They are particularly useful in congested cities, like London, bypassing traffic by using cycle lanes. They can be used for same-day or next-day delivery with real-time tracking. It has gotten more popular with the increase in social commerce and second-hand selling.
7. Smart parcel locker networks (out‑of‑home delivery)
Major networks: InPost, Royal Mail, Amazon, Yodel, DHL
Stat: The global smart parcel locker market is projected to reach US$1.28bn in 2026
Smart lockers are a more efficient and reliable last-mile addition, eliminating missed home deliveries and enabling greater control for the consumer. The lockers are available 24/7, meaning couriers can deliver the parcels to the secure hub and the consumer can pick them up themselves, utilising a fully automated system.
These lockers cut logistics costs, are more efficient for couriers and are more sustainable.
6. Autonomous delivery robots
Users: Evri, DHL, DPD, Amazon, FedEx
Stat: Starship, a leader in autonomous sidewalk delivery, has seen more than 10 million deliveries completed with its robots
Some of the world's leading logistics and delivery companies are beginning to deploy autonomous delivery robots in their network in order to streamline last-mile operations. In doing this, companies are also cutting carbon emissions, as they are not using large-scale vehicles to transport products.
Many of the robots are still in pilot phases across logistics companies, but there have been some successes in areas in the UK and Europe. DHL partnered with Clevon to deliver packages around Estonia.
5. Micro‑fulfilment centres
Providers: Walmart, Instacart, Amazon
Stat: These centres are often no larger than 10,000 square feet
Micro fulfilment centres are small-scale storage facilities which are predominantly used by ecommerce businesses that store their inventory closer to the end consumer. They do this to reduce final cost and transit times when delivering the package.
The centres are often highly automated, which helps them improve operational efficiency throughout the network. They typically carry smaller amounts of inventory and require regular restocking, but they have more streamlined operations.
4. Real‑time delivery visibility and tracking platforms
Providers: Shippeo, project44, FourKites
Stat: Businesses utilising these platforms are expected to see a 98.5% accuracy of on-time delivery, according to Locus.
These platforms utilise GPS, telematics and predictive algorithms in order to provide live updates on shipments. There are specifically catered platforms, depending on business size, logistics operations and tracking needs, with platforms available for enterprise transportation companies, local fleet management and e-commerce companies.
Rather than relying on manual tracking, they use automated ETAs, risk alerts and digital proof of delivery. Through this, they improve delivery efficiency and customer satisfaction.
3. AI‑powered route optimisation software
Providers: DHL, NVIDIA, FarEye
Stat: According to Descartes, 60% of fleet managers believe AI helps them optimise route planning
Through the use of machine learning and real-time data, routes can be automatically made more efficient across entire fleets. The route optimisation software gains real-time updates and predictions in order to factor in live traffic, driver availability, vehicle capacity and delivery windows.
As a result, fuel costs are cut significantly and planning time is reduced from hours to minutes. It also reduces the risk of idling vehicles and delayed shipments.
2. Delivery drones
Providers: Amazon, Zipline, DHL, Royal Mail
Stat: According to Gartner, drones could result in 70% less cost than traditional delivery methods.
Delivery drones are seen as a low-emission and fast logistics option, as they bypass road congestion. With some services, a customer can place an order and receive the package in minutes, delivered by an autonomous drone.
They offer a better on-demand service, and deliver an estimated 94% less energy per parcel, according to estimates from Deloitte. Due to this, they are more sustainable and can lower a company's overall footprint. Alongside this, they offer less noise pollution and are viewed as less disruptive to the public.
There is a range of different drone types, dependent on package size and type, or delivery demands, including the ability to keep hot products hot and cold products cold.
As drones can deliver directly to a doorstep, they can reach most customers – meaning even those in hard-to-reach places can gain access to a reliable delivery service.
1. Agentic last‑mile orchestration platforms
Platforms: Shipsy, LogiNext, Locus, project44
Stat: 78% of planning leaders state forecast inaccuracy is a main internal problem, according to Locus
Agentic last-mile orchestration platforms rely on specialised AI agents to autonomously manage routing, dispatch and customer communications. Through real-time updates, the tools are constantly adapting to live conditions, resulting in reduced delays and errors. As a result, there are reduced costs for the last mile, as well as a significant reduction in delivery failures.
The platforms unify disconnected logistics systems into a single decision layer, turning uncertainty into a clarified plan of action. Agents can monitor operations, information and risks across ocean, truckload and LTL shipments, automatically receiving notices on late deliveries.
Last-mile orchestration tools offer real-time coordination, ETA management, exception handling and more, replacing siloed planning with an adaptive system, keeping customers and managers in the loop at all times. Through this, there is greater visibility into delivery, as well as heightened customer satisfaction.
