Virtual Dispatch

Every courier faces a delayed delivery, at one time or another. Sometimes, it might happen, one right after another. Other times, the shift starts out great, but fizzles at the end. This is when the best courier techniques come into play.

With this in mind, the kind of delay matters. Furthermore it is important. Because when the courier is waiting, the drop-off location, is also waiting. This is when communication is most effective, in keeping a delivery on track. And on time.

Delayed delivery

Quick notes, to the drop-off location matter. Offering updates, is an excellent way to keep everyone in the loop. Especially the customer. There are times this matters so much, the customer can feel inspired to offer additional gratuity.

Even when there are no additional tips, there is much to be said for a quality customer experience. In fact, every courier has been a customer at one time or another. Putting oneself in the customers shoes, will help illuminate ways to improve the customer experience.

Furthermore, the more these efforts become habits, the greater the chances for improved earnings. This creates a better delivery experience for the courier as well. Additionally, it’s the mark of a professional courier.

Delivery side note: I would like to give a shout out, to a fellow delivery app courier. This courier stepped up and helped another courier (me), in a moment of a snafu. The courier’s name is Devin and I am mentioning this on the blog because we discussed many aspects of the delivery apps. Many couriers drive for multiple apps.

Best courier techniques

Thank you again Devin. Furthermore, the experience proves that couriers are an industrious, kind and ethical community. Indeed, one that is always ready to get the next delivery completion.

Similarly, the topic of delayed deliveries is multi-faceted. However, one common point of discussion is how long is too long to wait? This is about the pickup. In most delivery apps there is a time set for the pickup. It may have a name like the ‘ready by‘ time or similar.

One thing about this time, the courier will notice, is its relation to the current time. Often, it is a few minutes away. Depending on the courier’s speed, it could be ten or so minutes away. However, the point is the same, the merchant still has time left before the order should be ready.

Similarly, the courier isn’t really waiting until the ready by time, has been reached. It is the time after that, when the courier waits. Furthermore, it is this window of time that is difficult to make up for. If it carries on too long.

How long?

The discussions with other couriers suggest the average time is seven to eight minutes. It’s important to keep in mind the features a delivery app offers to help the courier.

For example, the Door Dash app offers the courier a chance to unassign an order penalty free. After an excessive wait. More on this in upcoming articles. Thanks again Devin. Stay safe out there.

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