Transport/Logistics

First mile delivery

First mile delivery refers to the initial stage of the delivery process, where goods are transported from the origin (e.g. a factory, farm, or supplier) to a distribution center, warehouse, or fulfillment facility.

Who is typically responsible for first mile delivery?

First mile delivery is usually handled by bulk freight carriers, local transport companies, or logistics service providers (LSPs) that specialize in moving raw materials or finished goods from suppliers to distribution hubs. In retail and e-commerce, it can also be managed by wholesalers or brand-owned logistics teams.

What are the main challenges of first mile delivery?

The main challenges of first mile delivery are:

  • Lack of real-time tracking and shipment visibility
  • Inefficient route planning and underutilized vehicles
  • Poor coordination between suppliers and warehouses
  • Delays in customs clearance (for international shipments)

How can companies make first mile delivery more sustainable?

There are many ways to make first mile delivery more sustainable, including:

  • Using multimodal transport with lower-emission options (e.g. rail instead of road)
  • Optimizing shipment loads and avoiding underutilized vehicles
  • Working with LSPs and carriers that prioritize sustainability
  • Using carbon accounting tools like BigMile to track emissions and identify savings opportunities

Explore other terms like

First mile delivery

Transport/Logistics

Intermodal transportation

Intermodal transportation is the movement of goods using at least two different modes of transport, but without handling the shipment itself when changing modes i.e. the shipment remains in the same loading unit (usually a container or trailer) throughout the journey.

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Transport/Logistics

Fleet efficiency

Fleet efficiency refers to how effectively a transport fleet uses its vehicles, fuel, and capacity to move goods or passengers. It considers factors such as cost, fuel use, emissions, and service levels.

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Sustainability

Carbon tax

A carbon tax is a government-imposed fee on the carbon content of fossil fuels or on CO₂ emissions generated by certain activities. This could apply to fuel producers, energy companies, industrial manufacturers, or large transport operators, depending on how the national or regional tax is structured. The more a company emits, the more it pays.

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