How to Effectively Reduce Last-Mile Delivery Costs

How to Control the Costs of Last-Mile Delivery

With the rapid development of e-commerce, the logistics industry has gradually become one of the key pillars supporting economic growth. However, in the entire logistics chain, last-mile delivery, as the final link connecting merchants and consumers, has always been a challenge in cost control. Especially against the backdrop of accelerated urbanization and increasingly diverse consumer demands, how to effectively reduce the costs of last-mile delivery not only relates to the operational efficiency of enterprises but also directly affects the shopping experience of consumers.

In recent years, multiple e-commerce platforms and logistics companies have taken measures to address this issue. For example, JD Logistics has optimized delivery routes through intelligent algorithms, significantly improving delivery efficiency. According to relevant reports, JD Logistics announced at the beginning of 2025 that its self-developed Jingzun system has covered most areas of the country, providing users with more precise services. This system is based on big data analysis and can adjust delivery plans in real time, reducing vehicle idling rates, thereby lowering transportation costs. JD has also increased investment in new energy vehicles, not only reducing carbon emissions but also lowering fuel costs to some extent.

Similarly worthy of attention is SF Express's launch of the Fengchao smart locker project. This innovative initiative transforms traditional end-of-line delivery models into a hybrid model of self-collection + door-to-door service, alleviating peak-hour delivery pressure while improving resource utilization. According to SF Express data, the usage rate of Fengchao smart lockers has been rising year by year, particularly excelling in high-frequency delivery scenarios such as communities and office buildings. This approach not only shortens delivery times but also reduces cost waste caused by failed deliveries.

Besides technological means, some enterprises have begun to try collaborating with third parties to share the burden of last-mile delivery. For instance, Cainiao Network, part of Alibaba Group, has jointly built an open intelligent delivery platform with several courier companies. On this platform, delivery resources between different brands are integrated, forming economies of scale. The advantage of this model lies in its ability to flexibly allocate manpower and material resources, avoid redundant construction, and enhance the market competitiveness of all participating parties.

It is worth noting that the reduction of last-mile delivery costs is not an overnight process; it requires enterprises to promote collaboration across multiple levels, including strategic planning, technical support, and service innovation. Taking Hema Supermarket as an example, to meet the demand for quick delivery of fresh food, the company has specially designed a complete cold chain logistics system, equipped with professional refrigerated trucks and insulated boxes. Although the initial investment is large, from a long-term perspective, this customized solution greatly improves delivery quality and customer satisfaction, indirectly promoting business growth.

In summary, effective control of last-mile delivery costs cannot be achieved without technological innovation and service model reform. In the future, with the popularization of emerging technologies such as 5G and the Internet of Things, we believe that more efficient and convenient solutions will emerge, helping the logistics industry move toward higher levels of development. For enterprises, seizing these opportunities and actively embracing change is essential to standing firm in the global competitive environment. At the same time, we look forward to seeing more practical cases emerge, offering more valuable references for industry development.