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The e-commerce sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with European online sales projected to reach €985 billion 2024, marking an 8% increase from the previous year.
This surge is reshaping the logistics and transport industries, especially as we approach peak shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
These occasions not only drive consumer spending but also test the resilience and adaptability of supply chains across Europe.
E-commerce Expansion and Its Impact on Transport
The continuous rise of e-commerce introduces new players into the market, intensifying competition and escalating the demand for efficient transport solutions.
Retailers are under pressure to meet customer expectations for swift deliveries, particularly during high-demand periods such as Black Week. This scenario places significant strain on logistics providers to handle increased volumes and maintain service quality.
The number of trucks transporting online purchases during Black Week can increase even up to 94% according to the European Federation of Transport & Environment.
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Challenges at European Ports
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European ports are currently operating near full capacity, with major terminals in Germany—such as CTH, CTA, and CTB—and in the Netherlands, including Euromax Terminal and Maasvlakte II, reporting yard utilization levels between 85% and 90%.
While European logistics still have to face shipments from China, where on 11th November was biggest shopping holiday on Single's Day, attracting millions of shoppers across Europe.
This high utilization indicates potential bottlenecks, as even minor disruptions can lead to significant delays in unloading, processing, and dispatching cargo. The surge in ocean freight demand has ports functioning at maximum capacity, testing the resilience of supply chains under pressure.
Any slowdown at these critical junctures can create a ripple effect, impacting last-mile delivery and challenging businesses to manage customer expectations effectively
The Importance of First-Mile and Last-Mile Delivery in E-commerce
First-mile and last-mile delivery play crucial roles in the success of e-commerce logistics, together accounting for over 50% of total shipping costs. These stages directly impact the speed, efficiency, and reliability of the entire supply chain, making them a priority for businesses looking to stay competitive.
The first mile, which involves moving goods from suppliers or manufacturers to warehouses or distribution centers, is critical for ensuring that inventory is positioned correctly to meet demand. Delays or inefficiencies at this stage can create bottlenecks that ripple through the entire delivery process.
The last mile, on the other hand, is where customer experience is truly made or broken. Delivering goods to the end customer on time is no longer just an expectation—it’s a standard. Research from Statista shows that 41% of global shoppers hope to receive purchased items within 24 hours.
However, the last mile is also one of the most expensive and complex stages due to factors like traffic, remote locations, and varied delivery preferences. Increasingly, the industry is seeing a shift toward Pick-Up and Drop-Off (PUDO) points as a solution to streamline last-mile delivery. PUDO options, such as lockers or partner stores, reduce delivery costs and offer greater convenience for customers, especially in urban areas.
Technological Pressures During Peak Seasons
Black Week serves as a critical test for the technological infrastructure of logistics companies. Advanced systems for route planning, shipment tracking, and delivery scheduling are essential for meeting heightened demand.
However, during peak periods, these systems face increased pressure. Companies with robust, scalable technological solutions are better equipped to handle unexpected surges, ensuring timely and efficient deliveries.
DONE Deliveries: Meeting the Challange
At DONE Deliveries, we recognize the complexities of peak seasons and are committed to providing seamless On-Demand transport solutions across Europe for manufacturing & distribution businesses, as well as e-commerce & marketplace companies.
Here’s what you get with our tailored solutions:
- Online booking platform DONE Quote&Go – available 24/7, giving you a possibility to schedule deliveries across 37 European countries
- Guaranteed truck availability – for same-day or next-day loading and direct delivery
- Real-time shipment status – we keep you updated at every step of transport process on your e-mail and DONE Space platform
- 24/7 Track&Trace – providing end-to-end security and 98,2% on-time deliveries
Our services are designed to meet the unique needs of various industries, offering
on-demand transport solutions that are both flexible and reliable.
With a network of 33k trucks & vans, capable of handling diverse cargo requirements and a commitment to operational excellence, we stand ready to support businesses through the busiest seasons.
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across the whole of Europe.
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