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What is First and Last Mile?

Drayage is an essential component of intermodal freight transport, involving the trucking of intermodal containers loaded with goods to and from rail terminals. This process, often performed by draymen, is commonly referred to as the first and last mile of an intermodal journey.

The “First Mile” begins a pick-up process, where a container of goods is picked up by the a truck, usually at a manufacturer, producer, or other supplier. The container is then brought to an origination railhead to begin its trip over the rail. The “Last Mile” in intermodal represents the final segment, where the container is picked up at the destination railhead and brought to the commercial end-user or their warehouse.

The first and last mile in drayage are critical because they directly impact the efficiency, cost, and reliability of the entire supply chain. Efficient first and last-mile operations reduce delays, enhance visibility, and improve overall service quality. For businesses relying on intermodal transport, having smooth first and last-mile processes ensures a more connected and effective logistics operation, ultimately supporting better business outcomes.

The Importance of Real-time Tracking in Intermodal

Real-time tracking in intermodal transport is essential because it provides critical visibility into the first and last mile, allowing shippers and carriers to monitor shipments and respond quickly to any issues. This technology reduces inefficiencies, improves delivery accuracy, and enhances communication throughout the logistics chain. DrayNow’s platform offers real-time tracking features that help streamline operations, minimize delays, and ensure a smoother delivery process, ultimately supporting better customer service and decision-making.

How DrayNow Enhances First and Last Mile Tracking

DrayNow enhances first and last mile tracking by leveraging real-time technology that provides shippers and carriers with immediate visibility into the status of their loads. The platform allows users to see exact locations, track on-time performance, and manage and access all your load’s paperwork digitally in real-time. This transparency helps reduce communication gaps and enables more accurate scheduling and coordination, leading to a smoother delivery process.

Additionally, DrayNow’s advanced tracking features support proactive problem-solving by highlighting potential disruptions early on. By integrating these visibility tools, DrayNow not only improves operational efficiency but also helps drayage companies manage their logistics more effectively, ensuring that first and last mile challenges are minimized. This comprehensive tracking capability supports better decision-making and allows users to optimize their transport strategies for greater overall performance.

Benefits for Carriers and Customers Using DrayNow

Carriers using DrayNow benefit from increased access to available loads, allowing them to find local intermodal opportunities that fit their schedules. The platform provides real-time updates on load availability and tracking, helping carriers optimize their routes and improve on-time performance. This leads to greater efficiency, reduced idle time, and better overall earnings for carriers.

For customers, DrayNow offers improved visibility and transparency throughout the shipping process. The platform’s real-time tracking and notifications enhance communication, reduce uncertainties, and ensure timely deliveries. Customers can make informed decisions and respond quickly to changes, improving the overall reliability of their supply chain.