The Future of Last Mile: AI, Real-Time Visibility & the OTIF Standard
Key Takeaways:
- AI-driven service time predictions help distributors build more accurate, reliable delivery plans based on real delivery data.
- Closing the gap between planning and execution improves on-time, in-full (OTIF) performance and overall route efficiency.
- Data-driven routing can increase route density by up to 30% without adding trucks or drivers.
- Real-time delivery visibility and proactive customer communication help contractors plan labor, reduce delays, and keep projects on schedule.
- Connected platforms that unify routing, execution, and customer engagement enable more consistent performance and continuous operational improvement.
From Planning to Performance: Rethinking the Last Mile
In building supply distribution, delivery is a critical part of the customer experience. Job site conditions change constantly, and when materials arrive late or without visibility, productivity suffers.
Many fleets still rely on outdated planning assumptions that do not reflect the complexity of real-world deliveries. Static service times, disconnected systems, and limited visibility create gaps between plan and execution. The result is inefficiencies, missed delivery windows, and frustrated customers.
In this discussion with HBS Dealer, Descartes leaders explore how distributors are transforming last mile operations using AI, data-driven planning, and delivery engagement tools to create more reliable and predictable delivery experiences.
Watch the Full Discussion
Turn Insight into Action Across Your Last Mile
Distributors are moving toward a more connected and data-driven operating model. When planning, execution, and customer updates are aligned, teams can manage deliveries with fewer surprises.
AI improves service time accuracy, so routes are closer to what actually happens in the field. When paired with real-time visibility, teams gain the ability to monitor performance as it happens and make proactive adjustments when needed.
Accurate service time estimations are one of the biggest levers for improving route reliability and network performance.” — Segio Torres, SVP Product Management
At the same time, delivery engagement tools play a critical role in strengthening the customer experience. Providing accurate ETAs, real-time updates, and proactive notifications helps contractors plan labor more effectively, reduce downtime, and keep projects on schedule.
The most successful operations are creating a continuous feedback loop where execution data informs future planning, driving ongoing improvements in route efficiency, resource utilization, and OTIF performance.
“The fleets that will win won't just be the ones with the smartest tech; they'll be those ones that transform their daily operations.” — Cyndi Brandt, VP of Fleet Solutions
Meet the Experts
Cyndi Brandt, VP, Fleet Solutions
Sergio Torres, Senior Vice President, Product Management
Fleet Resource Center
Expand Your Routing, Mobile & Telematics Knowledge
Recommended For You
