October 31, 2022
The idea of logistics app development can be a great way to improve your business. There are many things to consider when developing a logistics app, but with the right planning and execution, the process can be relatively simple and straightforward. Here are a few tips to get you started.
The logistical world is experiencing a revolutionary shift, spreading beyond the workforce to manage and control the vast and complex supply chains, transportation and other business requirements. With a substantial impact on the GDP of every nation, the logistical world is booming and expanding its footprint across regions. Thus, a proper logistical management system must be in a position to ensure everything runs smoothly and flawlessly. Logistical and transportation applications can help streamline processes and improve efficiency.
In recent years, the development of technology has made the process of doing things easier and faster. Mobile applications have simplified our lives by allowing us to do everything we used to do online. From shopping to booking flights and banking transactions to social media updates, they have taken over almost every aspect of our daily life. However, mobile app development has also increased competition among developers and entrepreneurs. To stand out, you must develop an application that offers something unique and useful to your users.
Logistics covers shipping worldwide and involves different areas of cargo transport, from storing perishable items to customs clearances. Like any other field, logistics desperately needs technology to meet rapidly changing customer demands. And here is an app to help. Below, we will provide a brief overview of logistics app development, types of applications, and factors of comparison between various development methods.
Market Statistics of the Logistics App Industry
Research from MarketWatch says that the logistics industry across Europe will grow by €187.1 million between 2020 and 2024. This means there'll be a 5% rise in the CAGR during the forecast period. The yearly expansion rate is predicted to be 4% for the current decade. The forecast period is the fastest growing between 2019 and 2023.
According to another report from Transparency Market Research, the global on-demand logistics market is expected to reach $15.5 billion by 2023.
How do Logistics Mobile Applications work?
Logistics applications play an important role in helping companies carry out various business functions and operations. They enable them to monitor real-time activities, track fleets, manage shipments, analyze data, and perform effective transaction processing.
You can find a lot of great apps out there that help people manage their daily lives. Some are used for personal purposes, while others are designed to make your life easier. To find the best one for yourself, you should know what to expect from each app before downloading it. You should consider some things before choosing an app for your needs.
Different Types of Logistics and Transportation Apps
You need to determine whether you want an Android or iOS app before deciding which kind of application you're going to develop.
On-demand Transportation App
This on-demand transport service is a simple B2C application for general consumers. It allows them to book various transport services, such as a minivan, for personal relocations.
Fleet Management App
A mobile application called "Fleets" helps track and monitor an entire vehicle/vehicle group from one place. Companies use it to manage their fleets.
Real-time Fleet Tracking App
With this type of mobile application, both the user and the owner can use it. It allows them to know where their cargo is at any given time.
Logistics or Warehouse Management App
Warehouse management apps help manage the entire warehouse of different types of companies. These apps work best for companies that handle their warehouses manually.
All-in-one Transportation App
This type of application has all the features of the types mentioned above. It is beneficial for drivers, users, and business owners.
Why Should Businesses Consider Developing Logistics Applications?
Based on the type of application, the need for custom logistics app development can benefit everyone that is part of the logistics distribution chain and transport.
Here are some of the main advantages of an app for transportation that will aid your company.
Decreasing Paperwork
With an effective cloud-based solution, you no longer have to worry about keeping track of paper documents. Instead, you can focus on running your business. You can use your time efficiently by focusing on more important things.
Besides, an organized logistics administration panel will help you streamline many processes and reduce the chance of human error. It will ensure that all documents, important files, and important information are handled correctly and securely.
Cutting Down Delivery Time and Cost
A functioning transportation application will speed delivery by automating internal procedures and streamlining fleets' management. The drivers will also follow the best routes to deliver the goods faster.
By implementing automated and streamlined procedures, you will cut operational expenses and also save money. So, you will be able to offer your customers better services at a lower cost and increase the number of customers you serve.
Enhancing Customer Service
On-demand logistics app developers should tailor their software to the user’s specific requirements. For example, customers would appreciate an option to check the status of their order in real time. Therefore, they could predict when their package will arrive at its destination.
A mobile application allows for user support, payments, and deliveries. It can also create accounts, schedule shipments, and manage deliveries.
Basic Features of Logistics Mobile Application
If you're also interested in the logistics industry and want to get involved in digitalizing your own transportation company, here are some common features to consider when developing an app for the sector:
Driver Panel
Driver Panel
Admin Panel
Advanced Features of Logistics Mobile Application
Now let us look at some of the advanced features that can make your application simple for users.
Chat Support
Chatbots now play an important role in the B2C and B2B industries. Many companies offering services or products are already using chatbots for their business. It is something an experienced logistics software application developer would highly suggest.
Multilingual Support
First, we should ensure that our application can work across multiple languages. We could achieve this by implementing multilingual support into our application. To do so, we must create an interface that supports multiple languages. Once we have done this, we need to implement these interfaces into our classes.
Multiple Payment Options
A mobile application should offer multiple ways to manage your credit card information. You may choose to store your credit card details securely online, or you could opt to enter them manually into the app. Some apps allow you to pay with various methods, including PayPal, Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and others.
Real-Time Analysis
These advanced features identify all operational processes from start to finish. The real-time analysis reports feature in the shipping application reflects various service reports. It comprises various things such as the region where the maximum shipment is, capture fuel, etc. But, this helps to decide on an application to operate smoothly.
Request a Quote
These advanced features allow clients to request quotes for services as per their availability. It helps to understand the costs and time involved in providing the service.
Driver Safety
It is a guarantee of the safety of drivers when they drive. It also examines all drivers on duty and their driving habits while delivering the products. It allows you to monitor their actions, such as speed, use of phones and more. Based on that, the scorecard was created for the driver and helped the users select their preferred driver.
Link & Upload documents
It's convenient for drivers because they can easily access important documents via smartphones.
Trip Log Reports
This feature allows the admin to record travel details, including the total distance traveled, time spent traveling, etc.
Manage Fuel and Vehicle Consumption
Here, the details regarding the energy consumption of all the cars are stored and maintained for all the running cars. Therefore, keeping an eye on them and monitoring their performance is easy.
Global Positioning System
The GPS functionality makes it easy to determine the route taken by the app. You get an idea of the driving experience and can easily estimate travel times and costs.
Monetization Models for On-Demand Logistics Applications
Here are the most common ways to monetize your logistics application:
Commission
The app's owners can directly earn money by partnering with various drivers looking for logistics on the move. The commissions can be made from the earnings, and, in return, drivers can make use of the platform. Thus, it benefits both parties in this manner.
Advertisement
Display relevant advertisements to the users who use the free version of your application.
Freemium Model
This strategy of monetizing is appealing to users. The basics are free to use, but users have to pay a fee for the more advanced features.
Paid Apps
With this monetization model, the user pays once for a lifetime license to access the service.
Paid Model
Suppose your app is useful and has a good user experience (UX). In that case, people will download your app and use it even if they don't want to spend any money.
Top Logistics and Transportation Applications in the Market
You may not be aware of them, but downloadable logistics apps are available for iOS and Android. These apps can help businesses run smoother by making things easier to track and manage.
With mobile technology, companies now have an easy way to provide instantaneous mobile reports. These reports can be accessed by anyone who has access to a smartphone.
Logistics
Many logistics apps claim to be the best, but Logistics is called “Logistics.” It tracks everything from shipment tracking to driver tracking to vehicle tracking to client management.
This app makes it easier to integrate supply chain management into your business. You can quickly navigate through its user-friendly interface for most of your requirements.
EazyStock
One of the first steps you'll take when visiting EazyStock's site is "Optimize Inventory." Using cloud-based software, you'll store your inventory in one location instead of guessing which products to cut back on and which ones to keep. You'll then be able to increase your availability of products, thereby reducing your overhead expenses and raising your profitability.
Tookan
Tookan is an online ordering system for restaurants that allows them to manage their business from anywhere at any time. It has a web app that allows restaurant owners to see order statuses and get notified when they need to be picked up.
EazyStock
Suppose you're looking for a convenient way to keep track of your stock and optimize your production processes; check out EazyStock. It's a convenient software package that can be used alongside any existing ERP system. It includes all the features needed to help you run your business efficiently.
OmniFocus
This is a very good logistics application designed especially for those who operate on mobile devices such as iPhones and iPads. This application allows users to manage tasks and organize them into projects quickly. The main features include a calendar view, project list, notes, and file manager. Users can also share files through email, Dropbox, or iCloud. In addition, they can create custom reports and export data to Excel.
Tech-Stack for Developing Logistics Application
Let's talk about the tech stack needed to create an on-demand logistics application:
Team Structure for Logistics App Design and Development
For a quality mobile application, an entire development studio is required, such as
Project Manager
A project manager looks after the entire development of a logistics mobile application. It includes communication with the team and their management and the necessary solution for any problem that may arise during the project.
App Developers
For transport and logistics app development, one requires a group of developers who know how to use the latest tools and technology and have vast experience developing apps.
Designers
These people are responsible for ensuring the application looks nice and is easy to use. They don't just put up an ugly-looking interface; they also ensure that the user likes how it works.
Quality Analysts
This team of experts ensures that the application meets the required specifications and is error-free. They run various tests on the application to determine whether it complies with these requirements.
The Key Takeaway
Suppose you're looking to create a new profitable business in the transportation and logistics field or revive these stagnant and declining businesses. In that case, you don't seem to have a choice other than to step up the game.
As the logistics app market grows, the demand for logistics and truck app development stays ahead in this growing competition. You must develop an app for your business to be one of them.
The future for this business is in mobile apps. This is beneficial for both businesses and consumers since apps can are a major factor with regards to cost reductions and assisting in being competitive in the marketplace of logistics and transportation, providing top-quality service, ensuring that you are in control and effectively managing processes, reducing time and energy by decreasing the amount of paperwork.
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