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Leadership, advocacy, and industry engagement continued to drive CLDA forward throughout the month of May.
This month brought important opportunities for CLDA leadership to engage in conversations and initiatives that continue strengthening our association and supporting our members.
Earlier this month, our Executive Director, Michael Wright, and I participated in ASAE’s governance training alongside association leaders from a variety of industries across the country. The experience provided valuable insight into governance best practices, strategic leadership, and organizational growth.
Investing in leadership development is an important part of ensuring CLDA continues to evolve and serve our members effectively. The training reinforced the importance of thoughtful planning, strong governance, and member-focused leadership as we continue shaping the future of our association and the industry we represent. We also came away with several valuable tools and ideas that will help guide our strategic planning session with the Board later this summer.
CLDA was also well represented at Home Delivery World this month alongside Regina Robuck, our Industry Relations Representative. The conference brought together leaders from across the delivery, logistics, retail, and final mile sectors to discuss the future of our industry, including operational challenges, emerging technologies, customer expectations, and security concerns impacting carriers nationwide.
While attending the conference, I had the opportunity to moderate a panel discussion on parcel theft, one of the most pressing challenges facing carriers, retailers, and customers today. It was encouraging to hear meaningful conversations centered around collaboration, prevention strategies, and protecting the integrity of the delivery experience.
What stood out most throughout these conversations was how rapidly the delivery and final mile industry continues to evolve. From security concerns and operational challenges to innovation and customer expectations, it’s clear our industry is being asked to adapt faster than ever before.
Experiences like these help ensure CLDA remains actively engaged and continues bringing meaningful insight, advocacy, and opportunities back to our members.
Thank you for your continued support, engagement, and commitment to CLDA. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead as we continue building momentum and moving our industry forward together. Your involvement and participation continue to play an important role in the strength and success of our association.
Lorena Camargo
CLDA President
Learn more and get involved with CLDA today!
As we move further into 2026, one thing is clear: our industry continues to evolve, and with that evolution comes both opportunity and responsibility.
This month, I had the privilege of joining fellow CLDA members in Washington, D.C. for our annual Fly-In. It was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we show up together with a unified voice.
During our time on Capitol Hill, we met with legislators and staff to advocate for our industry, specifically around the Department of Labor’s proposed changes to the definition of independent contractors. This issue is critical to the future of our businesses and the flexibility that has long been a cornerstone of the final mile and logistics sector.
We shared real-world insights on how these changes could impact our operations, our workforce, and ultimately the customers who rely on us every day. These conversations matter. Advocacy like this ensures that decision-makers understand not just policy, but the people and businesses behind it.
I’m incredibly proud of the members who participated. Your willingness to engage, educate, and represent our industry at this level speaks volumes about the strength of this association.
Advocacy at this level is essential, and it requires ongoing support. I encourage you to support the CLDA Advocacy Fund so we can continue showing up, sharing our perspective, and representing our industry where it matters most.
Support the CLDA Advocacy Fund
As we close out April and reflect on National Volunteer Month, I want to recognize and thank the individuals who help move CLDA forward behind the scenes. Our committees are where ideas turn into action and where members have a direct hand in shaping the future of our association. If you have been considering getting involved, there is no better time to step in.
Planning for our next conference is already underway, and there are many opportunities to contribute. Join a committee, share your perspective, and help drive the initiatives that move our association forward.
If you missed it, I encourage you to take a moment to watch our breakout session from this past FMF that highlights what it means to serve on a committee, how these groups work alongside the Board to advance CLDA’s mission and the relationships and connections built through active participation.
Beyond advocacy and engagement, I continue to hear from many of you about the day-to-day realities you are navigating, including rising operational costs, increasing customer expectations, and the ongoing need to balance speed, compliance, and service quality. These challenges are real and shared across our network. So is the resilience that defines this industry.
As we look ahead, I encourage each of you to stay engaged. Participate, connect, and contribute. The strength of CLDA has always come from its members.
Thank you for the work you do every day and for the role you play in keeping critical supply chains moving.
Together, we are not just adapting. We are helping shape what comes next. Take action with CLDA!
Lorena Camargo
CLDA President
I’m honored to begin my term as CLDA President and grateful for the opportunity to serve an organization that has played such a pivotal role in my journey. CLDA has been invaluable for me, connecting me with peers, mentors, and ideas that have shaped our success and continue to inspire me. I am committed to helping CLDA remain a supportive and inspiring community for all members.
Thank you for being a member and for your ongoing support. Your participation, feedback, and dedication are what make CLDA such a vibrant and thriving community.
As we look ahead, I encourage you to get involved and make your voice heard. Join a committee, participate in an event, or reach out with ideas. By contributing — through your time, insights, or advocacy donations — you help strengthen our association, support the success of our member companies, and ensure CLDA can continue advancing industry priorities and creating opportunities across our community.
During my term, I will focus on supporting members, fostering innovation, and creating industry connections. Whether you are a longtime member or just discovering CLDA, there is a place for you here, and I look forward to what we can accomplish together.
Here’s to the next two years of growth, collaboration, and celebrating the people and companies who make this community so special. I look forward to learning from you, serving alongside you, and accomplishing great things together.
Lorena Camargo
CLDA President
One of the best parts of attending the 2026 Final Mile Forum is where it takes you. Austin is not just the backdrop for FMF26, it is part of the experience. Known for its bold flavors, creative chefs, and laid-back vibe, Austin offers a food scene that rewards curiosity and conversation.
Whether you are grabbing a quick bite or hosting a client dinner, eating like a local is the perfect way to extend your FMF26 connections beyond the conference floor.
No visit to Austin is complete without barbecue. Locals take their brisket seriously, and many spots sell out early. Expect tender meat, simple sides, and lines that move faster than you think. Barbecue joints are casual by design, making them great places to continue conversations sparked at FMF26 sessions.
Pro tip: Go early and do not overthink your order. Brisket and sausage are always safe bets.
Austin’s food truck scene is one of the most vibrant in the country. From tacos and burgers to global flavors and late-night comfort food, food trucks are everywhere and full of personality.
These casual settings are ideal for informal networking. Grab a few colleagues, try something new, and let the relaxed environment do the rest. Some of the best ideas and relationships are built over shared meals without an agenda.
Tex-Mex is part of Austin’s identity. Think fresh tortillas, queso that disappears fast, and margaritas that encourage longer conversations. Whether you choose a classic neighborhood spot or a modern take on the cuisine, Tex-Mex meals are social by nature.
They are perfect for small group dinners where connection matters just as much as what is on the plate.
Austin’s culinary history is rich with restaurants that define the city’s character, from historic breakfasts to classic burgers and celebrated barbecue. Austin’s commitment to local ingredients and creative menus shines. These spots reflect the city’s innovative spirit and pair well with thoughtful discussions about growth, leadership, and the future of the final mile industry.
These iconic establishments reflect the breadth of Austin’s food culture and make for great stops around FMF26 sessions. If you are hosting a sponsor or meeting with peers, these restaurants strike the right balance between polished and approachable.
Eating like a local is not just about great meals. It is about creating shared moments that turn introductions into real relationships. Austin’s food scene encourages you to slow down, connect, and enjoy the experience together.
At FMF26, connection is the new currency. Let Austin’s flavors help you invest wisely.
Ready to join us in Austin? Register today!
The Final Mile Forum is more than an annual event. It’s a gathering of leaders, innovators, and partners who shape the future of last-mile delivery. FMF26, happening February 18–20 at the Austin Downtown Marriott, brings together a community where connection is the new currency and where the relationships you build can elevate your business long after the conference ends.
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or joining us for the first time, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are practical, high-impact tips to help you get the most value from your time at this year’s Final Mile Forum.
FMF26 is packed with sessions, panels, networking events, and exhibitor opportunities. Reviewing the agenda before you arrive helps you stay focused and intentional. Identify:
• Sessions that align with your company’s goals
• Speakers you want to learn from
• Times when you can explore the exhibit hall
• Moments to recharge so you can stay fully engaged
A clear plan helps you make smarter decisions onsite while still leaving room for spontaneous conversations that often become the most rewarding part of the Final Mile Forum.
The FMF26 exhibit hall is one of the most valuable spaces at the conference. It’s where new tools, technologies, and partnerships come to life. Don’t just browse. Engage.
• Ask exhibitors what business challenges their solutions help solve
• Look for partners that can strengthen your service offerings
• Share your operational goals so exhibitors can match their insights to your needs
Remember, this is a community-driven event. Every exhibitor is here because they serve your industry’s challenges, growth, and evolution.
FMF26 is built on the idea that who you know is how you grow. Before arriving in Austin, make a short list:
• People you want to reconnect with
• New partners or peers you’d like to meet
• Companies you want to learn more about
Make a point to introduce yourself, ask questions, and exchange contact information. Even a brief interaction can lead to long-term partnerships. In the final mile world, relationships build ROI, and the Final Mile Forum is the ideal place to invest in them.
This year’s event is in the heart of downtown Austin, one of the country’s most vibrant and innovative cities. Use the surroundings to maximize your experience:
• Host a coffee chat with a new connection at a local café
• Explore Austin’s food scene after sessions wrap
• Take a walk around Lady Bird Lake or South Congress to reset before another full day
Austin’s creativity and energy are the perfect setting for fresh ideas and dynamic conversations.
FMF26 is interactive by design. During sessions, panels, and discussions:
• Ask questions
• Share your perspective
• Provide insights from your company’s experience
You play a role in shaping the event’s value. The more you engage, the more you’ll take away.
Your FMF26 experience doesn’t end when you leave Austin. Strengthen new connections by following up within a few days:
• Send a brief note or message
• Share a resource or idea you discussed
• Offer to continue the conversation
This simple step turns quick introductions into lasting business relationships.
Once you’re home, share what you learned. Consider:
• A short team presentation
• A recap email
• Recommended next steps based on event insights
FMF26 can spark new ideas, but real transformation happens when you bring those ideas back to your organization.
The Final Mile Forum is a unique space where industry knowledge, innovation, and relationships intersect. It’s where leaders challenge assumptions, explore new solutions, and build the kind of partnerships that push our industry forward.
By preparing with intention, showing up with curiosity, and engaging fully, you’ll walk away from FMF26 not just informed but inspired.
Registration is open now for the 2026 Final Mile Forum, taking place February 18–20 in Austin. Early bird discounts end December 31, 2025, and discounted flights and hotel rooms are available through the CLDA event block.
Secure your spot today and make FMF26 the most impactful final mile forum of your year.
What are last mile carrier trends for 2026 and beyond? Dramatic growth in demand for same-day and next-day, rising expenses, increased use of AI and the need for systems that allow shippers, drivers and customers to share real-time data.
Those were some of the observations of Stephane Gagne, VP of Products at FarEye. The company recently took a deep dive into the last mile, producing a report, Eye on the Last Mile 5.0, based on a survey of senior industry professionals across 500+ organizations nationwide. Respondents include C-suite executives, directors, general managers, and departmental heads responsible for key areas such as transportation, operations, technology, procurement, and compliance.
He shared his thoughts on the implications of the report for those involved in the last mile in an interview with “Thinking Outside the Box.”
Gagne summarized the big takeaways from the report this way:
Same-day delivery is becoming standard, not premium. The sector is expected to grow from 27% to 35% by 2027. Carrier networks must be built around speed and proximity, using smaller fulfillment hubs near customers. AI-driven capacity pooling across carriers and increased automation in dispatch and routing will allow logistics companies to absorb increased demand more cost-effectively.
Carriers are facing escalating costs that are not being matched by revenue per delivery. Expenses—from fleet management to subcontractor fees—are rising quickly. Gagne noted that route density, failed deliveries, and inefficiencies contribute to higher costs.
He advised carriers to look to these solutions:
“Reliability is the new loyalty,” Gagne pointed out. “It’s just not an emotional reality. It’s a cost reality. If you’re on time, you reduce fail. The cost of a failed delivery can range from three to six times the cost of the original delivery. If a carrier is reliable, they make shippers’ customers happier and lower the cost of delivery.”
He pointed out that consumers will lose trust in a shipper’s products if they don’t meet expectations for on-time, accurate delivery. And that has a measurable impact on their loyalty and interest in purchasing from those brands again.
Consumers expect transparency from order placement to delivery. That means carriers must use data to their benefit. They should adopt API-first strategies and use predictive visibility solutions powered by clean, real-time data. The new industry standard has shifted from basic “track and trace” to “sense and respond.” Sense and respond is all about adopting systems that monitor and interpret data signals, such as traffic and weather, to help carriers deliver highly accurate ETAs. “These systems take all the data and, based on an algorithm … create predictive patterns to …come up with more accurate predictions of the future,” he said.
Route inefficiency drives up costs. AI-powered route optimization considers the entire ecosystem. It factors in traffic, time windows, and historical service times. This ultimately leads to significant savings.
Gagne again brought up the idea of dynamic pricing. “Instead of having fixed contracts that cannot be adjusted over time… carriers should offer fixed rates that are adjusted based on density, the number of deliveries and other variable conditions,” he suggested. “The dynamic pricing model is a way to better adjust to the rising costs that we’re all seeing. By replacing static service-time estimates with dynamic, data-driven routing models, carriers can reduce deviations by up to 60% and unlock 7-15% in cost savings. This means an increase in both the bottom line and customer satisfaction.”
About 60% of consumers are willing to pay more for speedy, convenient delivery.
“Some consumers recognize the value of convenience and accuracy,” Gagne pointed out. “There’s an opportunity there to allow them to choose from premium to economy delivery options,” he pointed out. “For example, if a consumer paid $5,000 for a ring, they may want to pay a premium, so it’s delivered at a specific time and doesn’t stay outside their door for three hours. The same goes for appliances. Here, the consumer wants the driver to enter their home and not only deliver the product but also unpack and install it. If the customer wants additional services or guaranteed same-day delivery, they can decide whether or not to pay a premium for them. Not everybody would be willing to do that. There are still price-sensitive customers, and carriers need to continue catering to them. But there are a bunch of people who will say, ‘My time is valuable, and I’m willing to pay a premium.’ Carriers should give them the option to select from economy, next-day, or same-day.” He pointed out that those who choose to pay for premium services will demand higher accuracy. Carriers will need to be able to deliver on their promised timelines or risk losing trust.
AI is increasingly at the heart of last-mile logistics, from dynamic crowd optimization and route planning to touchless communication for drivers. Generative AI is replacing manual driver interactions, enabling hands-free workflows and more proactive business systems. Companies adopting these capabilities gain efficiency, lower costs, and set themselves years ahead of competitors.
FarEye will introduce a new voice-activated app for drivers that reduces phone-related distractions while driving. “It’s a generative AI interface that makes sure the driver has two hands on the wheel or has two hands to perform a task instead of constantly interacting with their two thumbs on their phone,” he says. He expects the new app to be available next year.
Adoption of AI is a must for carriers, but Gagne points out that it takes time for team members to trust these systems. “Those integrating these capabilities now are giving themselves a two- to three-year head start on their competition. They will help their bottom lines by reducing costs and making their business more efficient,” he said.
That said, he points out that integrating AI into the hearts and minds of those in carrier companies won’t happen overnight. People within those companies must become comfortable with what these systems can do. “They need to understand the logic of those algorithms to be able to trust them,” he says. “That process can take anywhere from three weeks to three months for people to believe in the capabilities of those systems. And then, very slowly, trust will install itself. People will let go of some of their concerns and allow the systems to run on their own. Of course, they’ll always want to set some guardrails, constraints or limitations so that they can be automatically alerted, allowing them to intervene.”
Gagne concluded his interview with these tips for last mile carrier trends for 2026::
He forecasted that these strategies would determine which companies thrive in a last-mile landscape that will continue to transform every day.
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Want to dig deeper into FarEye’s recent research and the last mile carrier trends for 2026? You’ll find the full report here. You can also reach out to the team.
Before attendees arrive in Austin for FMF26, we want to give our community a glimpse into the city that will host the industry’s premier Austin final mile conference February 18–20. Understanding the spirit of a destination helps set the tone for meaningful conversations and stronger connections, and Austin is a place where history, innovation, and culture all come together. This look at Austin’s story offers a sense of what makes the city special and why it’s the perfect backdrop for the relationships and growth that define the Final Mile Forum.
Austin’s rise from a quiet riverside settlement to one of the nation’s most dynamic innovation hubs is a story rooted in resilience and creativity. It’s a city known for big ideas, bold thinking, and a culture that fuels collaboration. As the 2026 Final Mile Forum heads to the Austin Downtown Marriott, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the history, personality, and fun facts that make this destination unforgettable.
Long before Austin became the thriving capital we know today, the region was home to Indigenous peoples including the Tonkawa, Comanche, and Lipan Apache. They settled along the Colorado River, drawn to the natural springs and abundant resources of the area.
In the 1830s, settlers arrived and founded a small community called Waterloo. Its scenic hills and central location quickly drew the attention of leaders of the Republic of Texas, who selected it as the new capital in 1839. The town was renamed Austin in honor of Stephen F. Austin, the Father of Texas. Even then, the area’s promise was clear. It was a place built for new beginnings and steady growth.
As Austin grew throughout the nineteenth century, it took shape around Congress Avenue and what would become the downtown core. The Texas State Capitol, completed in 1888 and still one of the most iconic buildings in Texas, symbolized the city’s rising prominence. Its pink granite façade and commanding presence highlighted Austin’s role as the political heart of Texas.
Even as railroads expanded and commerce grew, Austin developed a personality all its own. Its creative spirit, independent thinking, and open-minded culture became defining elements of the city’s identity.
Today, Austin is known for its booming tech economy, but music remains one of its strongest cultural pillars. The roots of Austin’s music scene stretch back to the early twentieth century, but it was the 1970s that truly put the city on the map. Venues like the Armadillo World Headquarters helped build a thriving environment for live performance, fostering community and creativity among musicians and fans.
By the early 1990s, Austin had more live music venues per capita than any other city in the country. It earned the title Live Music Capital of the World, a name that still shapes the city’s energy today. Visitors can find music playing in coffee shops, bars, restaurants, outdoor stages, and iconic venues every night of the week.
For FMF26 attendees, that means there’s no shortage of spots to explore after a day of sessions, conversations, and networking.
Austin’s evolution into a global tech and innovation powerhouse is one of the city’s most remarkable transformations. The phrase Silicon Hills first emerged in the 1990s as established and emerging tech companies began planting roots across the region. Today, Austin is home to leaders in software, logistics, energy, and advanced manufacturing. It regularly ranks among the top U.S. cities for startups and business growth.
The city is built on innovation and forward thinking, offering a natural backdrop for conversations about logistics, technology, customer expectations, and the future of last-mile delivery. FMF26 attendees will find themselves surrounded by a city that shares their passion for efficiency, ingenuity, and continuous improvement.
One of Austin’s most enduring traits is its people. The city thrives on diversity, creativity, and collaboration. Its unofficial slogan, Keep Austin Weird, started as a grassroots effort to support small businesses. It has since become a rallying cry that celebrates individuality, authenticity, and local pride.
That same spirit of community reflects the values at the heart of FMF26. Connection is the new currency, and Austin is a place where conversations spark ideas, where partnerships grow naturally, and where people discover new ways to elevate their work.
Austin’s culinary scene is a standout in its own right. From food trucks offering global flavors to legendary barbecue joints like Franklin Barbecue, the city invites visitors to explore, taste, and enjoy. Tex-Mex, tacos, southern comfort food, craft coffee, local breweries, and upscale dining all blend into one unforgettable experience.
But food is just the beginning. Austin’s cultural landscape is filled with public art, murals, museums, outdoor installations, and creative neighborhoods. Visitors can explore the Blanton Museum of Art, walk the trails at Lady Bird Lake, relax in Zilker Park, or wander through the shops and restaurants of South Congress.
And for anyone looking to truly experience Austin, don’t miss the famous Congress Avenue Bridge bat flight at sunset, one of the most unique natural scenes in the country.
Here are a few memorable facts to bring up during a coffee break or networking session at FMF26:
• Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America, with over 1.5 million bats living under the Congress Avenue Bridge.
• The Texas State Capitol is actually taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
• Austin was the first city in Texas to launch curbside composting.
• Barton Springs Pool is fed entirely by natural springs and stays around 68–70 degrees year-round.
• Austin FC, the city’s MLS team, has one of the most passionate fan communities in the league.
• Austin’s food truck culture is one of the biggest in the world.
• South by Southwest, now a global gathering for film, tech, and music, began as a small local event.
Each fact adds another layer to the story of a city that’s both dynamic and deeply rooted in creativity.
Hosting the 2026 Final Mile Forum in Austin makes perfect sense. The city mirrors the forward momentum of the final mile industry and represents the power of community. Austin fosters innovation, celebrates collaboration, and thrives on meaningful connection. It’s a place where who you know is how you grow, and where relationships build ROI.
As the industry gathers to discuss trends, tackle challenges, share success stories, and build new partnerships, Austin provides the ideal backdrop. Attendees will leave inspired by the city, by the people they meet, and by the ideas exchanged throughout the event.
FMF26 takes place February 18–20, 2026 at the Austin Downtown Marriott. Registration is open now, and early bird discounts run through December 31, 2025. Discounted hotel rooms and flights from Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines are also available.
Make Austin part of your story. Register today for FMF26 and join us at the premier Austin final mile conference where new connections fuel lasting growth.
The final mile is changing fast and staying ahead requires more than hard work and operational know-how. It takes insight, collaboration, and the ability to learn from the leaders who are navigating the same challenges you are.
That’s why the 2026 Final Mile Forum (FMF26) is built around one core idea:
Connection is the New Currency.
This year’s program brings together shippers, carriers, and solution partners for three days of education and networking that’s practical, forward-looking, and grounded in real-world experience. Whether you’re focused on growth, optimization, or delivering exceptional customer service, FMF26’s lineup will give you the tools and the relationships to make it happen.
Hear directly from the shippers who shape expectations across the final mile. FMF26 shipper connections are the name of the game! These panels are designed for their honesty, energy, and insight by offering an unfiltered look at what customers really want and how providers can deliver. The What Shippers Want panels are:
Because in the final mile, who you know is how you grow — and understanding the shipper mindset is essential.
FMF26 offers a curated mix of sessions that address the trends shaping last-mile delivery, including:
More sessions are being finalized so stay tuned! Every session is built to deliver value you can bring home and use immediately.
Some of the most valuable moments at FMF26 happen around the roundtable. In Carrier Roundtables, peers dig into the real issues, including workforce, operations, technology, customer demands, and walk away with solutions they can use immediately. In Shipper Roundtables, shippers and partners sit down together for open, honest discussion you won’t find anywhere else.
These sessions deliver education, clarity, and connection all at once — proving that who you know is how you grow and your network is your net worth.
And with Austin as our backdrop, inspiration comes easy. Expect an event filled with education, music, culture, and connection — all designed to fuel your next stage of growth.
🎯 Join us in Austin for FMF26, February 18–20, 2026. Early Bird registration is open through December 31, 2025.
👉 Secure your spot now.
Register now!
February 18–20, 2026 | Austin Downtown Marriott | Austin, TX
In the final mile, connection isn’t optional — it’s everything. That’s why there’s no event quite like the 2026 Final Mile Forum (FMF26). Hosted by the Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA), FMF26 brings together carriers, shippers, technology providers, and industry leaders to share ideas, solve challenges, and strengthen the partnerships that move our industry forward.
This year, we’re heading to Austin, Texas, where innovation and energy meet opportunity. Over three powerful days, FMF26 will spark collaboration, deliver insight, and connect you with the people who are shaping what’s next in last-mile delivery.
Unmatched Networking: From receptions and roundtables to golf and Go-Karts, FMF26 offers countless ways to connect. Because who you know is how you grow.
Industry-Leading Education: Dive into shipper panels, general sessions, and discussions that explore trends, technology, and strategies driving the final mile.
Hands-On Access: Meet the partners, solutions, and innovators helping companies streamline operations and scale smarter.
The Austin Experience: Enjoy live music, world-class dining, and the vibrant energy of one of America’s most exciting cities.
FMF26 isn’t just about what you’ll learn — it’s about who you’ll meet. Every handshake, every conversation, every idea shared in Austin is an investment in your business. Because in this industry, your network truly is your net worth.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a CLDA veteran, you’ll leave FMF26 with actionable ideas, lasting relationships, and a renewed sense of possibility.
🎯 Join us in Austin, February 18–20, 2026.
Early bird registration is open now through December 31, 2025. Secure your spot today!
In a business where the clock never stops and every mile counts, last-mile carriers face the constant challenge of balancing customer expectations with controlling costs. “Thinking Outside the Box” interviewed Andrew Leone, CEO and co-founder of Dispatch, about profitability and cost control. The big takeaway was that the path to profitability starts with knowing your numbers and using technology to put those numbers into action.
Understanding Your Biggest Cost Drivers
Leone said there’s nothing mysterious about the biggest expenses in last-mile operations. Maintenance, fuel, and asset utilization still top the list. “Your largest overhead is how well you utilize your assets,” he explained. “The question is how many of your miles are truly productive?”
Deadhead miles—those driven without revenue—represent invisible profit loss. Measuring and minimizing them is one of the fastest routes to better margins. Equally important, Leone noted, is managing vehicle wear and tear, especially on fleets that regularly carry heavier loads. “If you’re hauling weight day after day, it adds up as a delayed expense in the long run,” he said. “Suspension, brakes, all of that adds up and sneaks up over time.”
Finding the Savings: Route Optimization and Bundling
The most immediate cost wins for many carriers come from route optimization and efficient bundling. “We see the most savings when jobs are bundled and routes are built around direction and density,” Leone said. “The goal is always to maximize the vehicle. It’s all about how much productive work you can get moving in the same direction.”
Allowing larger delivery windows can expand bundling opportunities, while strategic routing tools help minimize overlaps and improve per-mile efficiency. Leone emphasized that balancing optimization with service level is key. “You can have a full truck every day, but if you’re not meeting customer needs, you’ll lose that volume fast,” he pointed out.
Balancing Consumer Demand with Profitability
Leone talked about the balancing act between how full your truck is and how happy your customers are. “It’s a tightrope walk,” he said. “Every carrier struggles with maintaining on-time performance while keeping assets profitable. That’s the whole game.”
How Technology Changes the Game
Gone are the days when successful routing could rely solely on instinct. Leone acknowledged that seasoned dispatchers have a great gut feel but said that even the most experienced dispatcher can’t compete with real-time data platforms.
“In today’s world, you really can’t route effectively without technology,” he said. Dispatch’s platform uses AI and machine learning to analyze variables like GPS location, time windows, and current capacity to recommend more efficient assignments. “Maybe a job pays less,” Leone said, “But if it fits better per mile, you end the day more profitable.”
Premium Deliveries and Smart Pricing
Higher urgency means higher margins. Leone pointed out that certain sectors, like jobsite or industrial deliveries, command premium pricing because the cost of delay is so high. “If an HVAC crew is waiting at a jobsite, that downtime is costing them money,” he said. “They’ll gladly pay more to keep that site moving.”
The same holds for time-sensitive or emergency deliveries, such as airplane parts, manufacturing components, or other critical materials. That’s where customers will pay to cut downtime. Leone advised carriers to balance these ad hoc, high-margin jobs with a steadier base of work, such as same-day routes, to build consistency and predictability throughout the year.
The Challenges of Scaling
Scaling up is one of the hardest challenges in our industry, especially during high-demand times like the holiday peak. Leone warned against overextending too quickly. “You need enough financial cushion to weather underutilized assets when entering new markets or ramping up hiring,” he said. Scaling too fast can erode your core business.”
Peak seasons amplify this risk. “It’s always a guessing game,” Leone admitted. “Volume might surge earlier or end sooner than expected. You can plan for a general window, but precision only comes with data.”
Leone encouraged carriers to rely on historical data, such as delivery counts, mileage, and seasonal patterns, to develop better forecasts. Today, AI tools make analysis easier for even small operators. “You don’t need a staff analyst anymore,” he said. “You can upload your delivery history using tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to get usable trends and forecasts.”
The Power of Data-Driven Decision-Making
For Leone, the ultimate competitive advantage lies in data discipline. “Every carrier should know how many of their miles are revenue-producing. They need to know when their usually slow months hit and where their inefficiencies are,” he said. Good record-keeping, whether through software or simple spreadsheets, builds a foundation for better decisions.
Dispatch’s platform, for example, continuously aggregates and analyzes carrier work requests, using AI to recommend additional revenue opportunities without compromising performance. “It looks at where you are, what’s nearby, and what can be added efficiently,” Leone explained. “That’s how you add throughput intelligently.”
Building Stability Year-Round
Finally, Leone reminded carriers that profit isn’t built in bursts. It’s built in balance. “Instead of chasing every surge, look at how to smooth the year out,” he advised. “Fixed costs never go away. The best operators find steady contract work to cover the base and then layer in higher-margin, real-time loads on top.”
That consistency, Leone said, doesn’t just improve revenue. It reduces stress. “When you have a solid foundation of predictable work, everything else—the premium jobs, the peaks, the surprises—becomes an opportunity, not a source of anxiety,” he advised.
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Want to know more about using technology to increase profitability? Learn more at www.dispatchit.com.
