DHL has added what3words functionality to its consumer app, allowing its customers to share their 3m x 3m what3words address with delivery drivers.
Customers will be able to enter their precise what3words address into the delivery preferences section of the app, allowing them to direct drivers to the exact doorstep, side passage, or apartment entrance they want their parcel delivered to. Their future orders fulfilled by DHL UK will be dropped off at the same place.
What3words’ technology has been already been adopted by global logistics providers and delivery apps, including Hermes, DPD, Metapack and Pall-Ex.
The technology aims to overcome the challenge of the last mile. 74% of the UK population say guests, deliveries or services struggle to find their homes on a daily basis. When it comes to delivery cost the last mile accounts for up to 55% of such costs, largely because street addresses and postcodes guide delivery drivers to a street or broad area, but often not to the exact door the order needs to be delivered to.
By using a what3words address, DHL drivers can find delivery locations at the first attempt so routes can be better optimised, helping DHL cut out the inefficiencies that create surplus emissions in the last mile.
“New technology plays an important role in improving operations, reducing costs and enhancing customer service,” says Chris Sheldrick, co-founder and CEO of what3words. “DHL continues to innovate in its approach, and we’re looking forward to helping their drivers find and make deliveries with ease, giving customers the peace of mind that their parcel will arrive exactly where it needs to go.”
