The best bypass is a shortcut along the way
The on-time rating is more than a reputation rating. Instead, it applies to every delivery. Therefore, every courier using a delivery app, is susceptible to the rating. In fact, even the crew courier deals with the on-time rating. However, there are subtle differences between the two. Despite the differences the goal is still the same. An on-time delivery.
So what is the big deal about an on time delivery? Why should it matter to the courier whether the cargo arrives early or late? Aren’t the days of the thirty minute delivery guarantee long gone? Furthermore, it’s questionable whether anyone reading this will even remember the thirty minute or less guarantee. Nevertheless, it did exist once upon a time. However, it’s not likely to make a comeback anytime soon. But a timely delivery has as much to do with professionalism, as it does punctuality.
With this in mind, not every driver moves at the same pace. Therefore, most on-time delivery expectations are set at reasonable levels. However, there are still many occasions where couriers must find ways to bypass obstacles and slow downs. The odds of encountering something that will either slow or stall the delivery are pretty good. On every delivery. Proactively monitoring for slowdowns is a learned behavior on a delivery, but one that ultimately benefits the courier.
The Best Bypass Is A Shortcut
Monitoring for slowdowns is an important part of the courier’s work on any given delivery. However, looking for ways to improve time, and even get ahead of schedule, is also part of the courier’s job. Actually it’s a big part of the job. Every minute a courier saves, is an additional coin in the pocket. Time is money. The courier that can find ways to bypass known slowdowns has an edge. Especially during the rush when delivery demand peaks.
The thing about a workaround, or shortcut, is the uncertainty principle. This is one conundrum every courier hits at one time or another. And it simply means when things don’t go as planned. Like a shortcut with a detour. Or a bypass with a roadblock. These are things that will impact on-time delivery ratings, almost every time. Furthermore, these are some of the things couriers try to avoid. And it’s possible to do it, because even a bypass can have a shortcut.
If that sounds like a backup plan, then it’s phonetically correct. Even the best shortcuts can dead end unexpectedly. Furthermore, every route should have multiple workarounds whenever possible. It helps prevent backtracking. Backtracking can occasionally go as far back as the beginning of the delivery. This is usually attributed to traffic jams though. There are absolutely some delays a courier cannot foresee.
Along the Way
After a successful pickup, there is a special moment. The scene is in the front seat of the ride. The courier is there, and all is quiet for a split second. The vehicle is not moving, and the cargo is secure. The courier has the pickup confirmed and all that’s left to do is journey to the drop-off location. A stretch of time with a few moments to spare, is a great time to scout ahead. This blank time, just before the flight to the drop-off location, is incredibly useful time.
Not only is it unclaimed time, but also it is uninterrupted time. This makes it a great time to research the entire route. Learning what the GPS map recommends, is more than just being prepared. It also gives the courier clues. One of which is an idea of the best route for the trip. Every courier knows there is more than one way to get to a destination. However, some routes are more efficient than others. Even a recommended route by a GPS navigation system may have a more efficient alternative.
A quick look at the map, will give the courier details on what route the map recommends. If the courier can spot a more timely alternative, so much the better. The GPS map makes an excellent visual aide. Furthermore, it makes estimations on arrival times. And real time updates on current traffic conditions. Similarly it is a useful tool for finding a bypass that works. In other words, one of the best handheld shortcut finders.
A Bypass and a Shortcut
All of this comes back to the on time rating in a delivery app. Every step a courier can take to improve times, is a helpful one. Because the clock keeps ticking regardless of the condition of the delivery. Furthermore, even shortcuts can cause delays. This is one of the best reasons to take a minute just after the pickup, and study the map.
With the appropriate mapping system, the courier will learn of detours and delays before having to encounter them. All it takes is a couple of minutes to study the map. Do it before starting the vehicle. Study the suggested route, and then find an alternate route. Even if it’s a known area, check the map anyway. It takes ten seconds, and could save thirty minutes. Or more. The savings in time alone can make a definite impression on the on-time rating.
Checking for alternate routes also allows the courier to scan current traffic conditions. This is especially helpful for the courier that travels on different road types to navigate an area. For example, from back roads to highways and then to interstates. All on one delivery. Current traffic conditions are valuable Intel in those types of zones. Particularly when scouting shortcuts. Stay safe out there.
Like, share and follow the anonymous courier on X at @Theanonymousc1. Like and follow here for the Facebook page The Anonymous Courier on FB. Also find The anonymous courier on Pinterest.
Click on the Subscribe link to receive updates on new posts, updated posts and new features. Join today.
Comment here