By Greg Bartlett

Bicycle courier’s days are hectic. They have to deal with automobile and pedestrian traffic all day long, but the day of a dispatcher for the courier service is even more hectic. With upwards of 100 riders circulating at a given time it can be a very frustrating process trying to decide which one should alter their route to pick up a last minute package. GPS tracking devices installed on the bicycles or in the messenger bags could simplify the process.

With near real-time updates, the dispatcher would be able to see exactly where each rider is and assign new tasks based on the most efficient use of resources. Some companies send riders out on pre-designed routes and are unable to reach their riders until they return. But by incorporating GPS tracking technology and two-way radios there would be no need for the courier to return to the depot between runs.

This would save on time as well as improve the safety of the employees. GPS tracking promotes safety by cutting out extraneous travel through busy downtown streets and by limiting the amount of “call-outs” the rider must respond to. A call-out is a dispatcher request for location of the rider.

There is also the matter of stolen time, which GPS devices can address. If a messenger has been stopped for too long in one location or has deviated from the assigned pick-up/delivery route the dispatcher will be able to see that information on their screen. Steps can then be taken to address the issue with the individual or the entire team if the problem is not isolated.

One final advantage of GPS tracker is that it provides an immediate, and verifiable, record of when riders deliver packages. For courier services that provide a timed-guarantee this will be the protection from the rare customer who doesn’t want to pay. It may be a rare occurrence, but these are the things that can hurt a company’s reputation. Be sure to safeguard your good name.

To recap, for the cost of one portable GPS tracking unit per bike and a corporate subscription to a tracking service you will receive the following: efficient, up to date information on where your assets are, improve employee safety and productivity, and the ability to provide accurate time lines for when your messengers will pick-up or deliver. The choice seems clear that this can help take a bike courier company to the next level of competitiveness.