Dispatch software refers to applications that help dispatchers match drivers to routes, keep track of delivery progress, and make adjustments as the day progresses.  

Dispatch software eases the administrative burden for dispatchers by reducing reliance on spreadsheets, messaging apps and phone calls.  

The software usually tracks drivers and vehicles using GPS technology from telematics solutions and mobile apps. This information is used to monitor delivery status, re-optimize routes, identify when promised time windows are at risk, and trigger notifications to customers. 

The ideal dispatch tool will be closely integrated with route planning and execution technology. Dispatchers start with a blueprint of optimal routes, same-day orders are added without compromising time windows, and dispatchers are empowered to make manual adjustments based on their specialized knowledge. 

The most common capabilities are: 

• Assigning drivers: Matching stops to drivers/routes based on actors like location, vehicle capacity, driver availability and delivery time windows. 

• Route optimization: Calculating the most efficient navigation path and stop sequence based on a single goal like reducing mileage.

• Real-time tracking: Map-based dashboard for dispatchers to monitor deliveries and drivers. 

For complex, multi-stop delivery operations, look out for these features: 

• The ability to mix manual and optimized planning as needed 

• Full visibility into the consequences of re-sequencing routes or swapping stops between routes 

• Highlighting stops that break time window or capacity rules 

• Shipment and SKU-level details 

• Route optimization based on multiple goals like time window adherence, reducing cost, or reducing the number of routes

• Continuous optimization that keeps working in the background 

• Automated customer notifications based on dynamic ETAs 

• Geofencing and automated arrival/departure detection 

• White-label customer tracking portals 

• Plan-versus-actual performance tracking 

Dispatch software improves on-time delivery in several ways: 

• Route optimization automatically assigns drivers and sequences stops to ensure that deliveries arrive on time, without compromising efficiency. 

• The software can flag at-risk ETAs, allowing dispatchers to make informed decisions to get routes back on track. 

• Advanced dispatch software can automatically re-optimize routes in real time based on traffic, delivery characteristics and constraints.  

• When new orders come in, software can automatically assign the stop to the optimal route without breaking existing time-window promises. 

• Dispatchers can add, reassign and re-sequence stops with full visibility into how this will affect ETAs.  

Distributors with a large multi-depot operations should consider investing in sophisticated dispatch software – even if most routes are static.  

Day-to-day execution brings up exceptions, cancellations, ad hoc orders and traffic disruption. A route that looked good on paper can easily fall apart once the vehicle hits the road. 

Dispatch software gives full visibility, allowing dispatchers to make adjustments throughout the day while minimizing disruption to end customers. 

Descartes offers integrated solutions that optimize routes, dispatch deliveries and maintain visibility throughout the delivery lifecycle. 

With Descartes’ intelligent dispatch and route planning software, dispatchers can create optimized routes, monitor route execution in real time, manage exceptions proactively, and provide customers with accurate delivery updates. By combining route optimization with real-time dispatch capabilities, organizations are reducing logistics costs, improving on-time performance, and delivering more with the same fleet.