Logistics guide

First-mile logistics: scope, handovers and cost drivers

The first mile is the journey from the collection point to the first receiving hub. Its cost depends on the collection you need, including the waiting and handling around the drive.

2 min readUpdated

On this page
  1. Describe what will be ready for collection
  2. Compare the count at both ends
  3. Ask what drives the quote
  4. Questions about this topic
In short

Understand the work between collection and the first receiving hub.

Key takeaways

  • Tell the operator where to collect, when the goods will be ready and whether they are loose parcels, bags or pallets.
  • The collection record should match the shipment list, often called a manifest, and the count at the receiving hub.
  • Distance matters, but so do vehicle type, loading effort, waiting time, collection frequency and document readiness.

Describe what will be ready for collection

Tell the operator where to collect, when the goods will be ready and whether they are loose parcels, bags or pallets. Agree who packs and loads them. A pickup window is easier to plan when both teams know what “ready” means.

Compare the count at both ends

The collection record should match the shipment list, often called a manifest, and the count at the receiving hub. If packaging is damaged or a parcel cannot be matched, record the difference at receipt and assign the next check. The hub needs to know what arrived before the load moves on.

Ask what drives the quote

Distance matters, but so do vehicle type, loading effort, waiting time, collection frequency and document readiness. Compare quotes for the same work. A lower trip price can mean a different collection arrangement, so ask which activities are included.

Questions about this topic

What is a manifest?

It is the shipment list used to identify and check the parcels or other goods handed over.

What should I prepare for a discussion with Delv?

Bring your collection locations, goods, expected counts and readiness windows. Read Delv Deploy for the hub work that may follow collection.

Next step

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