Temperature-controlled distribution specialist, K2B Couriers has optimised its fleet operations and boosted customer service with the implementation of delivery route planning and scheduling software.
The company provides same-day, back-up and planned deliveries for a range of blue-chip clients and has a remit to ensure consignments arrive on time and in perfect condition.
The newly introduced Maxoptra platform will allow K2B couriers to intelligently schedule single and multi-drop routes, respond to urgent same day requests and deliver on long term contracts, while cutting unnecessary mileage.
K2B selected Maxoptra following a free trial of the scheduling solution based on the system’s functionality, ease of use and flexible contract terms.
“Support for our previous on-premises route planning solution was withdrawn some time ago, and when the software suddenly stopped working at one of our busiest times, we had no option but to manually plan using online mapping tools,” commented Kim Barnett, owner of K2B Couriers. “With nearly 1,000 deliveries to schedule, this took the best part of 48 solid hours!
“As we take pride in our responsiveness and customer service, this was simply not acceptable. We reviewed a number of different options, including planning solutions from some of the ‘market leaders’. However, upfront costs, minimum user requirements and long, inflexible contracts made their offerings unsuitable for our needs,” he continued.
The cloud-based Maxoptra Delivery solution selected by K2B Couriers is offered with no upfront hardware costs or minimum user contracts. A simple per vehicle registration fee is charged with a rolling monthly contract – charging only for vehicles used and allowing additional vehicles to be added at any time.
Maxoptra integrates with K2B’s existing back-office systems, with customer details and order requirements automatically imported into the route planning software. It also brings additional functionality, including automated ETA notifications and POD reporting.