When a package is “Out for Delivery,” things can get stressful for dispatchers. Without delivery tracking updates, it’s easy for things to go wrong, which can lead to extra inquiry calls and unhappy customers.
However, with real-time tracking, dispatchers can know where exactly each package is, so they can answer questions quickly and keep everything running smoothly. In this blog, we’ll show how this simple change can make the delivery day easier for dispatchers.
What is Real-Time Tracking and How Does it Work?
A real-time delivery tracking system is a technology that allows you and your customers to get constant, live updates on the location and the status of the vehicles, drivers, and shipments.
Instead of waiting and guessing, customers and dispatchers can see updates as they happen – whether the driver is stuck in traffic, just around the corner, or ringing the doorbell. Some technologies can provide up-to-the-minute information on the package journey, from the point of origin to its destination.
Here’s how a real-time delivery tracking system works:
- Order Placement: Once an order is created in the system, tracking automatically begins.
- Driver Assignment: The dispatcher assigns the order to a driver through the delivery management dashboard.
- GPS Tracking: The driver’s app sends continuous location data, allowing dispatchers to view real-time movement on the map.
- Status Updates: The system automatically records key stages – picked up, out for delivery, delivered – without manual input.
- Customer Get Notified: If enabled, customers receive live updates through text or email.
- Delivery Confirmation: Once completed, proof of delivery (signature, photo, or timestamp) is instantly uploaded to the system.
- Post-Delivery Insights: Data is stored for reports, helping dispatchers review performance and improve route optimization.
This real-time shipment visibility keeps everyone, from dispatchers, drivers, and customers, connected through a transparent system that updates itself as deliveries happen.
How Real-Time Tracking Improves the “Out for Delivery” Experience?
According to a survey, more than half of the customers (57%) say that being able to track their orders matters to them a lot. This shows that if you’re a dispatcher, then giving this feature to your customers can be a great way to improve the customer experience.
1. Reduces Delivery Questions and Calls
When customers can see exactly where their package is, they’re less likely to call customer support or the driver. This means fewer inquiries and more time to focus on deliveries.
Your team will need to spend less time answering the same questions and more time getting packages where they need to go.
2. Helps Drivers Avoid Delays
Live tracking isn’t just for customers – it helps drivers, too. If there’s traffic, roadwork, or a sudden change in plans, drivers can get updates and reroute quickly. This keeps deliveries on schedule and helps avoid missed windows.
3. Builds Trust and Transparency
Sharing real-time updates with customers shows that you’re a reliable and open company. People feel more confident when they know what’s happening with their delivery. Clear updates mean fewer surprises – just honest, straightforward service.
4. Happier Customers and Better Reviews
When customers know when to expect their delivery, they’re more likely to be home (and less likely to miss it). This way, there are fewer returns, less frustration, and more positive feedback. Happy customers are more likely to use your service again and recommend it to others.
5. Easy to Use and Quick to Set Up
Getting started with real-time tracking doesn’t require a tech background. Many solutions offer simple apps or web dashboards. Some even send automatic updates to customers by text. Carriers can pick what works best for their team and get up and running quickly.
Top 5 Real-Time Tracking Tools for Dispatchers
If you’re thinking about adding real-time tracking to your delivery process, there are plenty of tools that can make life easier for both dispatchers and drivers. These platforms don’t just show where a driver is – they help organize routes, send updates, and keep things running smoothly when the day gets busy.
Here are a few worth checking out:
- Onfleet: One of the most popular tools among dispatchers. It gives a clear, real-time view of every driver and delivery, along with route planning, customer notifications, and proof of delivery – all in one place.
- Route4Me: Perfect for teams handling multiple deliveries at once. You can plan routes, monitor progress, and get instant driver updates without switching between different screens.
- Samsara: Great for larger fleets. It offers live GPS tracking, driver safety data, and performance reports that help you spot issues early and keep deliveries on schedule.
- DispatchTrack: Focused on improving last-mile delivery. It gives real-time updates, automates alerts, and easily connects with other systems you already use.
- Fleet Complete: Ideal for companies that manage big fleets and need constant visibility. It tracks routes, driver behavior, and vehicle health to cut down on delays.
These tools aren’t just about tracking dots on a map – they’re about making your workday easier, keeping communication clear, and helping your team deliver on time without the usual chaos.
Conclusion
The out for delivery experience doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Real-time tracking puts everyone on the same page, making it easier for carriers to deliver packages on time and for customers to feel confident about their orders.
The result? Fewer missed deliveries, less stress, and happier customers all around.