Digital Proof of Delivery: The Future of Logistics

In the logistics world, digital proof of delivery has revolutionized the way order delivery processes are managed.

If you're not yet familiar with digital proof of delivery, a powerful tool for streamlining internal and external processes, you're in the right place.

In this article, we'll explore electronic delivery in detail and how it can streamline your company's workflow, as well as the benefits and most common types of digital proof of delivery.

What is proof of delivery ?

Do you know what a proof of delivery in logistics is and how it works? Proofs of delivery are documents that contain relevant information related to the delivery of a product or the performance of a service.

The use of proof of delivery is part of the basic operations of the logistics area, since it allows to verify deliveries in a satisfactory way for both customers and companies.

Types of proofs of delivery

There are several types of digital proofs of delivery used in logistics and transportation. These methods vary in their level of detail, technological implementation and format. Below are some common types of proof of delivery.

Digital proof of delivery

The digital proof of delivery, also known as electronic proof of delivery, serves the same purpose as a physical proof of delivery, but, being electronic, there is a wider availability of formats, among which the following stand out: 

Electronic Signature: Instead of a physical document, electronic signature methods are used. The recipient signs on an electronic device, such as a cell phone or tablet, capturing a digital signature that serves as proof of delivery.

Barcodes and Scanning: Barcodes or QR codes are scanned on shipping labels or packages upon delivery. The data is recorded electronically, providing proof that the shipment was delivered to the specified location.

GPS tracking: In cases where the delivery vehicle is equipped with GPS technology, real-time tracking data can serve as proof of delivery. The location and time stamp of the delivery are recorded and can be accessed electronically.

Photographs: Taking photographs of the delivered package or of the recipient receiving the package can serve as visual evidence. These photographs can be time-stamped and attached to the delivery record.

Digital Documentation: Instead of physical documents, digital documentation methods are used. This includes digital signatures, electronic forms and online platforms where recipients can confirm receipt of a shipment digitally.

Proof of Payment: In some cases, proof of payment at the point of delivery, such as a receipt or invoice, can be used as a form of proof of delivery, as it demonstrates that the recipient has fulfilled their financial obligations upon receipt of their package. 

Geofencing: Geofencing technology establishes virtual boundaries around specific delivery locations. When the delivery vehicle enters or leaves the designated area, an automated delivery confirmation is triggered.

Advantages of digital proof of delivery

Traceability: Using a digital proof of delivery allows greater visibility of transport operations. In addition, you get better control of the products shipped and information on their receipt in real time.

Productivity: Automating proof of delivery through digital means helps employees perform their tasks in a simpler, more organized and efficient manner.

Effectiveness: By eliminating the use of paper, operating expenses are reduced. In some countries, there is even legislation to support the use of electronic documents in distribution and delivery operations.

Sustainability: Customers appreciate that their suppliers care for the environment and take concrete actions to minimize their impact.

Visibility: With digital proof of delivery, information is obtained on loads, unloads, deliveries and events during transport, with geo-referencing and in real time.

Profitability: The analysis of information, such as the comparison between the planned and actual route, customer satisfaction through surveys and the automation of collection processes, will be reflected in greater profitability for the business.

Proof of physical delivery

Within the proof of delivery possibilities, there are still many companies that use physical means to perform their proof of delivery. The most common is signature confirmation, where the recipient signs a physical document, such as a delivery receipt or bill of lading, to confirm receipt of the shipment.

Despite the fact that we are in the age of technology, many companies continue to carry out their operations in the traditional way, and continue to use paper documentation and physical proof of delivery.

Undoubtedly, we cannot deny that the physical proof of delivery is a key document in logistics and distribution activities, since it is a reliable proof of the correct receipt of the goods.

In the traditional process, the operator must return to the company or warehouse after the end of the distribution day and deliver the signed proofs of delivery to the administrators and logistics managers, so that they can initiate the verification and collection process.

Although a relatively popular method, it has certain disadvantages when it comes to implementation: 

Administrative burden: Physical POD requires additional administrative work, including collecting and organizing paper receipts or digital records. This process can be time-consuming, especially in large-scale logistics operations.

Delayed information: In many cases, physical POD does not provide real-time information, as it takes time to process and share documents, leading to delays in updating tracking information and notifying stakeholders of successful deliveries.

Higher costs: Implementing physical POD can generate additional costs for logistics companies. These costs include printing, storage, manual data entry and possible errors or losses associated with physical documents.

Environmental impact: Physical POD often involves the use of paper, which contributes to environmental issues such as deforestation, carbon emissions from printing and paper waste disposal. 

It should be noted that advances in technology and the increasing availability of digital solutions are reducing some of the disadvantages associated with physical POD.

Digital alternatives - PoE or POD - such as electronic signatures, mobile applications and cloud-based platforms can offer similar benefits, while addressing many of the disadvantages mentioned above.

At Drivin, we offer optimal route planning, taking into account all commercial and operational constraints entered. In addition, our mobile application provides drivers with relevant information to comply with the planning and perform a digital proof of delivery.

The driver can update the delivery status, including full or partial acceptance, rejection of orders at SKU level, detail the reasons for rejection or acceptance, take pictures, digitally sign, add comments and download the digital proof of delivery document in PDF format.

In addition, your company can review the status of orders on multiple delivery dates, download the digital proof of delivery in PDF files, inform your internal customers about your operation, download pre-settlements for payment of your drivers and automatically generate a route pre-settlement.

If you would like to make the leap to using technology in your last mile, leave your details in the form below for a Drivin representative to contact you.