Introduction
Recognising the growing demand for ETAs in the pallet network sector, Pall-Ex Group set out to find a future-proof solution to this issue. With the help of AI automation experts Optimize, the Group has been able to develop and implement a powerful ETA system to automatically calculate the delivery time slot on all consignments. However, implementing a system like this would not be possible without the commitment of its shareholder members.
Long-standing Pall-Ex member Aylesbury Logistics was one of the Group’s first members to access the system in its trial phase and has consistently achieved success levels of between 98 and 100% for on-time deliveries. Now the system has officially launched, it has proved to be a resounding success not only for Pall-Ex Group, but also its members and customers.
About Aylesbury Logistics
Aylesbury Logistics has been covering postcodes across Buckinghamshire for Pall-Ex the network since 2015. As a reputable and well-known service provider in the Aylesbury area, it offers a range of logistics services to customers both locally and nationally alongside its pallet network operation. The introduction of ETAs has been a huge step forward for the business, enabling it to exceed customer expectations and gain an edge over local competitors.
Delivery Challenges
Prior to the launch of Pall-Ex’s ETA system, Aylesbury Logistics had been dealing with a huge number of inbound calls from customers and other network members chasing delivery timeslots.
“We are delivering many more pallets to residential addresses than we used to, which has resulted in an increase in the number of calls requesting delivery timeslots. Answering calls and manually calculating delivery windows can take up a lot of time and resource that could be better spent on other aspects of the business”, commented Dave Young, Aylesbury Logistics’ Managing Director.
The surge in B2C pallet deliveries was driven by the home improvements industry, as many people took on DIY projects during the pandemic. The volume of B2C pallet deliveries remains above pre-pandemic levels, with 20% of all pallets going through the Pall-Ex network now destined for residential addresses.
“People have become accustomed to receiving a timeslot with their parcel deliveries so naturally they expect that the same service comes with pallet deliveries”, added Dave.
However, the large, bulky nature of palletised freight creates additional complexities when it comes to calculating delivery timeslots. Weight restricted roads, longer unloading times and tail-lift requirements all contribute to the difficulties in determining a delivery window.
The Benefits
Since the launch of the system in early February, Aylesbury Logistics has experienced a significant decrease in the number of inbound calls.
“The reduced volume of inbound calls from other depots has allowed us to spend more time focused on achieving our own ETAs, ensuring that a higher proportion of our deliveries are made when expected”, added Dave. “We also have a better understanding of our own drivers’ performance, so we can confidently know that timed deliveries will be made.”
The launch of ETAs also brings huge benefits for customers, with Dave continuing: “It prevents them from having to pick up the phone to us and ask for ETAs on jobs they are sending out across the network. They can confidently communicate to their own customers exactly when their goods will arrive with them.”
Results
Throughout the trial phase and since launch, Aylesbury Logistics has consistently achieved over 98% success on its ETAs, with the system being closely monitored and managed to ensure customers receive accurate timeslots.
“As the system develops and gets smarter, I am confident that it will only further strengthen the value added to our customers and our operation. It is certainly a step in the right direction to ensure we remain ahead of our competitors and demonstrates a market-leading solution that both Pall-Ex Group and its shareholders can be proud of.”
Pall-Ex Group has built and implemented a leading solution within the palletised freight industry, using the latest technology to ensure it can keep up with advancements in the future.