The role of a logistics transport planner can be stressful, particularly for those working in retail logistics or wholesale distribution. Not only are the routes that need to be planned complex, with multiple stops in different locations, but they need to factor in things like cost control, delivery windows, cross-border regulations, returns and more.
In the past, much of this work had to be done manually. However, as demand has grown and the challenge scaled, planning technology is becoming essential to meet the challenge. Now, route planning and optimisation can be done by specialist software, such as PTV OptiFlow, that use advanced algorithms to design the most efficient routes quicker than ever.
So, what does that mean for transport planners? We’re going to take you through a day in their life to show you how some tools have transformed their work.
The night before
For most transport planners, the day actually starts the night before, when the morning routes are planned.
To do this, the planner needs to consider many factors including:
- The number and location of pickups and deliveries
- The volume of parcels
- Multiple depot locations
- Vehicle capacities for mixed fleets
- Driver skills and certifications
- Road restrictions, such as low bridges, reduced access areas, roadworks etc
- Hard constraints like delivery windows and legal regulations
- Soft constraints like customer preferences
The more factors the planner considers, the more challenging it becomes to create efficient routes. To manage this, many planners use route optimization software, which quickly calculates the best routes by analyzing all input data, along with historical traffic patterns, to avoid common disruptions.
With the routes planned, this information is passed to drivers and warehouse teams to prepare for the next day. Efficient systems, like PTV OptiFlow, enable planners to streamline this process and improve loading schedules.
By implementing these systems, companies like Claassen Logistics have achieved smoother operations and faster preparation times for the next day’s deliveries.
Read how Claassen Logistics improved their planning efficiency with PTV OptiFlow.
First Thing in the Morning
When the planner arrives at the office, they begin by checking if any urgent deliveries need to be added to the morning route. These last-minute changes may require re-planning parts of the route. Once any adjustments are made, the final route is communicated to the drivers.
After confirming that all customer requirements, such as delivery times and vehicle suitability, have been met, planners are able to ensure that the morning deliveries proceed without issue.
For companies like De Graaf Logistics, route optimization has not only improved daily planning but has also allowed them to deploy the right vehicle in the right place at the right time.
Discover how De Graaf optimized routes and reduced fleet size with PTV OptiFlow.
Late Morning
Once deliveries are underway, transport planners track their progress using real-time visibility tools, such as PTV Axylog, which provides alerts about potential delays or disruptions. These tools enable planners to update customers in real time, allowing them to adjust their plans if needed. The planner also tracks the successful delivery of parcels using features like electronic proof-of-delivery (ePOD).
In cases of severe delays, planners may need to reroute deliveries or dispatch additional vehicles. Throughout this process, communication with drivers, customers, and customs agencies (for cross-border deliveries) is essential to minimize disruptions.
By mid-morning, planners are also preparing routes for the afternoon, incorporating parcels that arrived in the morning or deliveries with specific time windows.
Afternoon
By the afternoon, all scheduled deliveries should be planned and executed. Planners continue to monitor deliveries and respond to any real-time disruptions as needed.
The afternoon is also a time for analysis. Planners review performance data to gain insights for future planning. Metrics like delivery time accuracy, fuel consumption, and driver productivity can be analyzed using tools like PTV OptiFlow and PTV Axylog. These insights allow planners to fine-tune their strategies and continually improve efficiency.
Transport Planners and Delivery Tech Go Hand in Hand
As consumer demand grows and delivery routes become more complex, transport planners are turning to technology to simplify their tasks. By integrating route optimization software and real-time transport tracking tools, planners can focus on higher-value activities while increasing the overall efficiency of deliveries.
A day in the life of a retail transport planner is far from simple. With countless factors to manage and frequent disruptions to handle, it can quickly become overwhelming. However, with the right technology and tools, this complexity can be simplified to make their job more efficient.
Get in touch to learn more about how PTV OptiFlow and PTV Axylog can improve planning within your business and help you get more value from your planners.