As businesses, choosing the right business shipping option is a mandate. Here the issue arises when courier companies and distribution companies are used synonymously. While these services may be part of the supply chain, they are different in operation when you understand them in detail. For instance, internal parcel tracking plays a crucial role in managing logistics, highlighting the differences between courier and distribution companies. Therefore, we need to draw a comparison between courier and logistics. Below is a head to head comparison.
Courier and logistics distribution companies in London- which is better
Below is a detailed comparison of how to choose the correct service for the distribution of your company.
1. Purpose
Courier companies deal with delivering small packages, these include important documents which have a light weight. Small size businesses who wish to get their package delivered to nearby locations or even to national locations can opt for courier service.
London distribution companies provide service that executes, strategizes and controls the transportation of products in the supply chain. They deliver products that are huge in size, these are optimal for businesses that have a cross-border transportation system, and often use trains, trucks, or even aeroplanes.
2. Scope and nature
Courier companies involve a narrow line of services as this delivery to the end customer/user. For example, a document couriered to the end recipient. This service is best for ensuring quick, local courier deliveries, and real-time tracking available (vendor-specific).
A distribution company involves a broad spectrum scope and involves warehousing, storage, packaging, shipping, and delivery. One of the most common delivery modes that it follows is the last mile deliveries. Which involves the movement of goods from a transportation hub to the final delivery destination – be it a home or business. The main aim of last-mile delivery logistics solutions is to ensure that this transportation is carried out within the shortest possible time and at minimal cost.
3. Delivery
Courier companies usually follow a process of delivering precise goods and returns. These can be time-sensitive or have goods which are perishable in nature. Mostly used by e-commerce and retailers wherein customers order for delivery within 24 hours. Helpful for small businesses, as the packages are delivered within the same day, which makes them more inclined and latent towards the company.
London Distribution Company which is meant for international business hence it takes at least 2-4 business days or it can also take up to a week. Logistics services typically know all the ins and outs of the product deliveries between the business and clients, Furthermore, this involves moving goods from one place to another for an extended period.
4. Customer service
Courier services in London are popular for using personalised services and often go a mile extra to ensure that your package has arrived on time and in perfect condition. Since there is a business-to-customer relationship established, clients whose packages are on boarding can communicate with the client. On prior information and special requests, an out-of-the-way delivery arrangement can be made.
Logistics or distribution companies London are strictly Business to business and generally do not pay individual attention. However, you can still track their status and they will address any concerns that you may have raised.
5. Cost structure
Courier services are usually on the hefty side especially the ones which have an individual shipment. It is because of their speed and twenty-four-hour delivery service that makes them expensive.
Logistics companies are ones which usually offer competitive pricing, especially for large and frequent shipments. The rate of this service depends on the distance, weight and mode of transportation that the product has been shipped on. A popular example of a logistic service company includes part truckload pricing.
6. Weight and size
The courier service is those which excels at handling packages that typically weigh less than 150 pounds. These are best for documents, small packages, items which need special care, fragile and emergency, and medical samples.
One can say that these London distribution companies are courier services but on steroids. Extremely huge scale they can handle everything from a single pallet to a whole container of goods. These are the best bet if your business is large scale and you have large bulky and heavy items.
7. Management systems
In the case of a courier service, a courier management software is integrated. The process involves organising and scheduling any last-minute deliveries. This also covers overseeing operations, planning and optimizing routes, overseeing vehicles, managing fuel, and handling courier expense approvals.
In a distribution company, warehouse management involves the process of receiving, storing, stocking and protecting the inventory. Warehouse management is helpful and encompasses seven different stages in a supply chain and is the origin point for last-mile delivery.
Conclusion
While analysing courier companies and logistics, it is viewed they are different in dimension. They identify different lines and segments of business one serves business to business while the other revolves domestically. In the race of identifying and declaring anyone as the ultimate winner may not be applicable as each of them has their specifications and pain points.