Definition: Final leg of delivery from distribution center/depot to end customer (home, restaurant, retail store). Often the most expensive and complex part of cold chain logistics.
Challenges:
- Multiple stop routes (frequent door openings)
- Variable delivery times (waiting for customers)
- Traffic congestion (urban areas)
- Small drop sizes (high cost per kg)
- Temperature control during door openings
Solutions:
- Route optimization software
- Eutectic or battery-powered refrigeration (zero emission for residential)
- Insulated containers for individual deliveries
- Time-window delivery scheduling
- Multi-temperature vehicles (frozen + chilled + ambient)
Growing Sector: E-commerce, meal kits, online grocery, pharmaceutical home delivery.
Related Terms: Urban Delivery, Route Optimization, Multi-Stop, E-Commerce
Find Services: Last-mile cold chain delivery providers