The Green Mile: Reducing our impact one delivery at a time

The logistics industry is a critical player in the global push for environmental sustainability, and the last mile of delivery—the final leg from a local hub to the customer’s doorstep—is a key area where meaningful changes can be made. This final mile, while essential, is often the most inefficient and environmentally costly part of the delivery process. However, with the advent of precise address validation and route optimisation, businesses have a powerful tool to reduce their environmental impact.

The last mile in delivery logistics is notorious for inefficiencies that lead to increased fuel consumption and higher carbon emissions. In urban areas, delivery vehicles can emit up to 10 times more CO2 per kilometre compared to long-haul freight trucks, largely due to the stop-and-go nature of urban driving (https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/travel-logistics-and-infrastructure/our-insights/how-covid-19-has-pushed-companies-over-the-technology-tipping-point-and-transformed-business-forever). Wasted miles—those unnecessary journeys caused by incorrect addresses—are a major contributor to this environmental burden.

PostTag’s precise address validation technology ensures that delivery drivers reach the correct location on the first attempt, significantly reducing wasted miles. By minimising these unnecessary journeys, businesses can cut down on fuel consumption and lower their carbon footprint. Data from PostTag shows that their technology is 145 metres more accurate than traditional address systems and our competitors, a difference that translates to fewer missed deliveries and less time spent on the road.

In addition to improving address accuracy, route optimisation is crucial for reducing emissions. PostTag’s technology optimises delivery routes by factoring in real-time traffic conditions, leading to fewer kilometres travelled and less time spent idling in traffic. According to the Carbon Trust, optimising delivery routes can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 30% (https://www.carbontrust.com/resources/fleet-optimisation-guide).

Adopting greener delivery practices not only benefits the environment but also reduces operational costs. For instance, a 10% reduction in fuel usage can save a delivery fleet approximately 5,000 gallons of fuel per year. At current fuel prices, this could amount to savings of over ￡15,000 annually. Additionally, reducing vehicle wear and tear due to fewer wasted miles can lead to significant maintenance cost reductions, further enhancing a company’s bottom line.

As the logistics industry moves towards more sustainable practices, the role of precise address validation and route optimisation becomes increasingly important. With PostTag, businesses can reduce their environmental impact and enhance delivery efficiency, making every mile count in the journey towards a greener future.

Want to learn more findings from our report, visit here.