In a world where convenience is king, retailers face the challenge of ensuring their last-mile delivery doesn’t just meet expectations but exceeds them. This isn’t just about delivering a package; it’s about crafting a journey that resonates with customers from the moment they hit “buy” to the moment they pick up their order.
As we speak, couriers transition more and more from manned parcel desks with retail partners to renting floor space to place parcel lockers. As a result the last mile experience is changing, and building a direct consumer relationship becomes even harder for retail.
Turning the roles around: Ownership of the Last-mile
Traditionally, retailers have joined existing locker networks, relying on external partners to handle deliveries. But why not turn the roles around? By investing in your own lockers, you gain full control over the customer experience—from brand presence to profitability.
With the right technology, investing in lockers becomes not only strategic but also easy and smooth. When retailers take ownership of the lockers, they don’t just participate in the last-mile ecosystem—they lead it, transforming what was once a cost center into a revenue-generating asset.
Turning the roles around: Ownership of the Last-mile
Traditionally, retailers have joined existing locker networks, relying on external partners to handle deliveries. But why not turn the roles around? By investing in your own lockers, you gain full control over the customer experience—from brand presence to profitability.
With the right technology, investing in lockers becomes not only strategic but also easy and smooth. When retailers take ownership of the lockers, they don’t just participate in the last-mile ecosystem—they lead it, transforming what was once a cost center into a revenue-generating asset.
Seamless integration: Your tech's new best friend
So, if you consider taking ownership of parcel lockers, what is the biggest hurdle to overcome?
Locker networks come with a plethora of different systems that have to connect. It starts with the actual software of the lockers that controls things like locks and scanners, then there is your own webstore set up, and your courier partners systems. The deeper you dive into the technological noodle soup behind the screens the harder it becomes to swallow.
To take control over lockers, in an ideal world you would look for the right partner. A company with experience in locker operations and a flexible technology that makes connecting multiple services easy and who takes care of the entire stress around that. This way, you can focus on what you want your lockers to be, strive for a higher standard, and trust that your partner can shape the solution exactly like that. Focus first on the customer journey from your webstore to your locker and guarantee a part of capacity for this stream.
In that journey, shape the exact notifications and feelings you want to foster, regardless of the different integrated courier partners in the background. This way your courier partners focus on what they excel at, smooth logistics, and you control what is the core value for you, how your customer and brand connect during the process. Expand services of your lockers beyond the expected. Launch product giveaways, return marketplaces, limited edition reveals, and loyalty programs through your lockers.
Beside your own volume, integrate the full courier systems and become a pick up point for their other volume. You drive traffic to your store and set the terms for profit.
Smartmile offers the software to unlock the full potential of parcel lockers— We make it easy for you to take control. No lengthy training sessions or complicated transitions. A system that can connect any, leverages your current tech while unlocking exciting new features that elevate your logistics game.
Customer experience: The heart of the matter
Let’s face it—no one likes a confusing pickup process. Clarity is crucial when it comes to delivery, and Smartmile makes it easy for retailers to manage every touchpoint in the customer journey. With our platform, communications are clear, branded, and informative. Imagine a shopper eagerly awaiting their package, receiving timely updates that keep them engaged. This transparency not only builds excitement but also enhances the overall shopping experience.
And let’s not forget the power of personalization! With Smartmile, you can customize notifications to reflect your brand’s unique voice, fostering a deeper connection with your customers. When they see your branding at every turn, it reinforces their choice to shop with you.
By taking ownership of the physical pick up locker, every journey ends with your brand.
Trust is your best asset
Consistency is key in building a customer brand relationship. When customers know they can rely on your brand for timely deliveries, they’re more likely to come back for more. With our agnostic locker systems, you can offer convenient pickup options, with all necessary notifications in your brand, regardless of the courier handling the delivery.
This flexibility positions you as a trustworthy choice in a competitive market. When customers feel confident in your brand’s reliability, their loyalty grows.
Measurable ROI: The Smartmile advantage
Investing in logistics should lead to tangible returns—not just a way to keep your packages moving. Smartmile’s platform is designed to deliver significant cost savings and efficiency gains. Our lockers can result in a 12% cost reduction for couriers compared to traditional home delivery methods.
Additionally, if you compare the revenue from renting out space for lockers in your store to owning the lockers and charging couriers for using them, you could earn 20-30% more profit.
The future is here: Elevate your last-mile strategy
Smartmile is more than just a logistics solution; it’s a game-changer that empowers retailers to take charge of their brand at every step of the journey. By embracing seamless integration, prioritizing customer experience, and delivering measurable ROI, Smartmile helps retailers navigate the complexities of today’s fast-paced retail environment. And you might unlock unexpected revenue streams.
Whether you choose to invest in lockers or work with Smartmile and courier partners, our platform offers solutions that adapt to your needs.
Are you ready to redefine your locker delivery strategy and elevate your brand to new heights? Discover how Smartmile can transform your logistics operations and keep your customers smiling from webstore to locker.
Let’s take this journey together!
