When drivers depart the plant with orders, they use handheld devices loaded with delivery, inventory, and customer information. Upon arrival at each stop, drivers scan the items being offloaded, obtain a digital signature from the recipient, and print a receipt.
These transactions can be updated in real time using GPRS or uploaded later through wireless networks. GPRS integration also allows the central office to monitor truck locations, track time spent at each delivery point, and review real-time progress. As orders change, updates and notifications can be pushed instantly to drivers’ devices. A close-day process reconciles financial and inventory data and transmits this information back to the WMS and ERP systems.
DSD also simplifies the resolution of incorrect orders or customer disputes. If a customer questions a labeled weight or needs to modify the order, the driver can record variances with an explanation and process any adjustments while on route. Transactions—such as scanning each product and processing each payment—can be updated in real time via GPRS. If cellular connectivity is unavailable, data is stored locally and reconciled once the driver completes the route. Ultimately, DSD saves time and provides complete product traceability throughout the delivery process.
