Managing delivery routes efficiently is crucial for ensuring timely deliveries and maximising operational efficiency. Ooooby's platform provides a powerful feature to automatically optimise delivery routes using one of two sophisticated algorithms. This guide explains how to leverage these options and adjust routes as needed for any delivery event.
Selecting a Delivery Routing Algorithm
Access Hub Settings: Begin by navigating to the hub settings page within your Ooooby account.
Choose Your Algorithm: In the "Delivery Routing Algorithm" setting, select the algorithm that best fits your operational needs:
Google Maps Shortest Route: Utilises Google Maps data to determine the shortest possible route between delivery points, considering both the starting and optional ending addresses.
Previous Route Order: Prioritises the route order from the previous delivery event, adjusting only for new or removed deliveries to maintain efficiency.
Algorithm Application: Once a delivery event is created, the chosen algorithm will automatically organise routes to minimise travel time over distance.
Modifying Delivery Routes
Can I change the delivery route after it's been set?
Yes, adjustments can be made to refine or completely change the route for a delivery event.
Adjust Route Order: For minor modifications, use the 'Adjust Route Order' button on the Delivery Event Details page to reposition individual customers within the route via drag and drop.
Manual Optimisation: For significant changes (e.g., due to a road closure), select 'Manual Optimisation.' Here, you can reorder delivery points manually, starting with the blue marker to designate the beginning of your route.
In both scenarios, ensure to hit 'Update Route' to save your changes.
Combining Routes for Efficiency
What if a driver is unavailable on the day of multiple delivery runs?
Ooooby's platform allows for the combination of routes to accommodate such scenarios, enabling a single driver to efficiently cover multiple routes.
Combine Routes: On the Delivery Event Details page, click 'Combine Routes.' Then, merge the relevant routes into one comprehensive route.
Route Details: Assign a new name and code to the combined route for clarity and tracking.
Finalise: Press the 'Combine Routes' button at the bottom to apply the changes. The system uses Google Maps for integration, ensuring the combined route is as efficient as possible.
Note: Route combinations are temporary and revert to their original settings after the delivery event, ready for future planning.
Conclusion
Efficient route planning is a cornerstone of successful delivery operations. With Ooooby's automatic route optimisation and flexible adjustment features, you can ensure that your deliveries are as efficient and timely as possible. Whether you're tweaking an existing route or combining routes for operational necessity, these tools provide the flexibility and efficiency needed to meet your delivery challenges head-on.