Couriers are becoming an increasingly important aspect of all business operations especially with the continuing increase in e-commerce sales and the relentless cost increase in owning and operating a company vehicle.

By providing a national (and international) mechanism for reaching customers, regional businesses have the ability to compete on a much more countrywide basis. Moreover on a regional level couriers have the ability to assist companies in fulfilling urgent same-day deliveries for key customers.

At Distinctly Cumbrian we can support clients with choosing a shortlist when selecting a courier through taking into account factors such as depot location, collection times on routes, couriers specialities (ambient, chilled etc), referrals and examination of quotations.

However, the sole use of a courier may not be the correct option for a business to pursue, and a multi-track approach including operating a company vehicle plus collaborative distribution may be more cost-effective options.

Advantages

• Capital cost reduction.
• Operating cost reduction and time-saving.
• Economies of scale through accessing national distribution networks.
• Cost lags and cushion effects e.g. fuel.
• Concentration on core business activity.

Disadvantages

• Potential loss of control over delivery operation.
• Courier may lack experience in client's field.
• Service levels can be poorer.
• Loss of distribution experience in company.
• Potential loss of brand identity and integrity.