What is Autonomous Dispatch & Routing Software?

Logistics managers depend on technology to improve their fulfillment operations. Meanwhile, warehouse operators are upgrading their platforms for improved flexibility and communication with customers.

While these sectors of the industry are each improving in their respective specific tasks, there is one thing that is beginning to be implemented across the industry. Yes, we are talking about automation dispatch and routing platforms. 

One of the leading solutions being introduced across the supply chain is autonomous dispatch and routing software. These new AI-driven platforms address and provide a solution to the issues that transportation, warehousing, manufacturers, and others in logistics deal with daily. 

There are a lot of bells and whistles packed into modern autonomous dispatch and routing software solutions that can benefit all kinds of businesses.

In this blog post, we’re going to talk a bit about autonomous dispatch & routing software. We will dive into how it works, the type of businesses that can benefit from upgrading to this platform, and how a professional 3PL can help with the implementation. 

How Does Autonomous Dispatch & Routing Software Work?

The ultimate objective of autonomous systems is to improve the efficiency of a supply chain. With autonomous trucks, the intent is to expedite the movement of freight, as they should be able to operate for longer hours. With an autonomous dispatch and routing system, however, the efficiency level is taken a step further. 

These modern systems help to improve customer service, reduce the time needed to deliver products and distance or total miles driven. This helps to improve the efficiency of a fleet, provides streamlined route optimization and better on-time delivery standards. 

The system works by using advanced cloud-based technology with the assistance of AI, to process orders, assign routes, and dispatch drivers and trucks. It does it all without the assistance of human operators. It uses big data to make decisions on route optimization. It does this in real-time and has the capacity to reroute shipments based on traffic, all to ensure the delivery is made within the customer's expected window. 

It’s a system that learns on the go. And with every mistake or missed delivery, it can fine-tune and adjust the routing and delivery cycle for better execution over time. The system is constantly learning, by analyzing the fleet data, customer input, and delivery efficiency. It collects data including the location of the delivery, delays caused by outside or unpredictable sources, the volume of products being delivered, the type of vehicle used, the driver involved in the load, the weather conditions, and so much more.

In fact, these systems can be so robust that it can prescribe, predict, and provide precise estimations within only a few minutes of delivery in some cases. 

How is this System Being Used in Logistics?

One of the biggest customers of automated routing and dispatching systems are ride-sharing businesses like Uber, Lyft, and Waymo.

These companies develop proprietary systems that allow them to assign customer pickups to drivers located throughout the area, again, based on multiple variables. With ridesharing platforms, the goal is to enhance the customer ride experience, reduced wait time for pickups, and to ensure that they have enough space for luggage, passengers, and more. 

It’s able to reroute drivers to reduce the miles driven, time for the ride, and to optimize the route based on traffic and other factors. 

How it Can Help Logistics Companies

The integration of autonomous dispatch and routing software is advantageous for multiple business types within the logistics space. 

Transportation Companies

For those that deliver freight, the autonomous dispatch and routing platform offers multiple benefits including:

• Reduced time and miles driven for each pick-up or delivery
• Better routing for local or regional-based pick-ups and deliveries
• Reduced payroll for routing and dispatching 
• Improved customer service by expediting white glove or last-mile logistics programs

Warehousing

The warehouse or fulfillment center is likewise one that can benefit from autonomous dispatch & routing software solutions. 

• Quicker deliveries. For those warehouses and fulfillment centers with in-house delivery services, the software can expedite and improve the efficiency of their delivery systems. 
• Reduced expenses. By customizing and fine-tuning the routing of delivery routes, fewer miles are drive, resulting in reduced payroll. 
• Improving the carbon footprint. As fewer miles are driven, and routes are optimized, delivery drivers and routes will consume less fuel, and thus a reduction in carbon emissions. 

How a 3PL can Help

When you work with an experienced 3PL like Redwood Logistics, you’re able to optimize dispatching and routing software to better meet your goals and objectives.

Redwood Logistics is always ahead of the technology curve, especially automation tech. Working with software developers and agencies that create these solutions, Redwood Logistics is able to . 

If you’re looking to integrate an autonomous dispatch and routing software into your daily operations, contact the leaders at Redwood Logistics today.