Virtual Dispatch

A delivery completion, is the goal of almost every courier. It is also the way most couriers get paid. The more completions a courier can achieve in one shift, the better the potential earnings. This is also why many experienced couriers consider delivery, a game of numbers. Mainly because it is.

The first numbers that pop up on each delivery shift, are the gas totals. Or, the fuel cost. Starting on a full tank, or with the fuel gauge on full, is a bonus. However, it’s not always possible to start with the full tank of fuel. So the numbers game begins early on. With all the planning, and strict rationing of miles and fuel, the background numbers game will be ongoing.

Once an offer is accepted from the queue the arrival at the merchant is more about those numbers. Except these involve the hands of time. With this in mind, the courier usually picks up the cargo, and begins the actual delivery. However there are times when the cargo is not there. This can be a confusing event for the courier and the merchant alike. But it does happen.

The Lost Delivery

The first thing the courier can do, is communicate with the merchant. There are only a few scenarios possible, that will explain the lost delivery. Furthermore, they can be narrowed down to roughly three categories. Mistake preparing the cargo, a mistake in tracking the cargo, or a mistake in securing cargo pickup confirmation. Of these, only one has a hope of being readily available, if speedily remedied.

The courier can hope the cargo was incorrectly tracked, but is still available. Perhaps in the back, on the counter. It’s not much, but it’s hope. Sometimes hope pays off. Otherwise, chances are, the cargo will have to be prepared again. This is when the courier must make a few decisions. Additionally, they can be influenced by the issue at hand. For example, does the cargo have to be prepared again, from scratch? Or repackaged?

This definitely will impact the length of time the drop-off location will be waiting. Furthermore, it will have an effect on the courier’s stats. Like a traffic jam, those pesky quality indicators, show up everywhere. Especially when there’s a snafu. However, most delivery apps have some form, or way, of mitigating the lost delivery. It is important to seek out, and follow, the particular app directions. This will ensure the best outcome for the courier and those quality markers. Or ratings, for short.

Tidbits and Safety

This goes hand in hand with safety tidbits. A quick one for this article, is about communication. The courier has several ways to communicate with the drop-off location. It is a pro-tip to initiate communication in a delivery, as early as possible. Not only does this help with better customer relations, but also with updates for the courier. As well as additional details.

Likewise, the courier has better delivery accuracy. Improving the odds of courier safety. Every clue is beneficial on a live delivery. Stay safe out there.