Last mile delivery services can account for as much as 53% of total supply chain costs, a number that continues to grow as customer expectations rise.
Fast, accurate, and visible deliveries aren’t just nice to have anymore; they’re the new standard. If packages arrive late, incomplete, or without tracking, customers lose trust, and businesses lose repeat sales.
That’s why more companies are rethinking how they select their last mile delivery services.
It’s not just about who can deliver, but who can scale with you, meet SLAs, and offer the tools that keep your customers informed and satisfied.
From e-commerce brands to B2B distributors, the right last mile delivery services can help reduce costs, improve operational flow, and build brand loyalty.
In this post, we’ll cover the key things to consider before making a choice, so your final mile isn’t your biggest weakness, but one of your strongest assets.
Key Elements of Last Mile Delivery Contracts
Here’s what the last mile delivery contracts typically cover:
1. Scope of Service
- Defines what’s being delivered, in which locations, and under what conditions.
- May include scheduled delivery windows, residential delivery, B2B drops, and white-glove services.
2. Performance Standards
- KPIs such as on-time delivery rate, proof of delivery, return handling, and order accuracy.
- Often includes service level agreements (SLAs) with penalties for non-compliance.
3. Pricing & Billing
- Cost structures based on distance, weight, delivery zone, or time sensitivity (e.g., same-day).
- Can include fuel surcharges, wait times, failed delivery charges, and minimum volume commitments.
4. Technology Integration
- Specifies expectations for tracking, API integration, barcode scanning, and real-time updates.
- May require use of specific platforms or compatibility with the shipper’s system.
5. Liability & Insurance
- Outlines who is responsible for lost, damaged, or delayed shipments.
- Includes coverage thresholds and claim processes.
6. Termination & Renewal
- Defines contract duration, renewal terms, exit clauses, and early termination fees.
Choosing the Right Delivery Partner: What Really Matters
Choosing a last mile delivery service isn’t just about speed, it’s about reliability, visibility, and keeping your customers happy.
A weak delivery partner can lead to missed deadlines, poor tracking, and lost trust.
Now we will share what to look for in a last mile delivery service provider so you can choose one that supports your growth and protects your brand.
1. Proven Track Record with Time-Sensitive Deliveries
When choosing a provider, you need more than fast talk, you need a history of fast deliveries.
A strong partner should show proof of performance, not just promise it. Consistent execution builds trust and keeps customers coming back.
Look for:
- Delivery time SLAs and fulfillment benchmarks
- Real-world case studies or client references
- Performance dashboards and accountability metrics
At Newl, our last mile delivery solutions are performance-driven with 35+ years of experience in reliable deliveries
We ensure shipments reach customers on time, every time. We don’t just move freight, we protect your brand reputation with reliability built in.
Reach out today, our team will reach out within 24 hours to show how Newl’s last mile delivery services can support your growth, not slow it down.
2. Real-Time Tracking and Full Visibility Across the Final Mile
Modern customers expect live updates and transparency.
If your current provider lacks tech-enabled tracking, you’re flying blind, and that affects CX and internal ops.
The right last mile delivery logistics solution should offer:
- Real-time tracking with ETA updates
- API or platform integrations with your WMS/OMS
- Proactive exception alerts and resolution workflows
Newl’s in-house WMS put your team in control. Our last mile delivery solutions include seamless integration, so you always know where your shipment is, and what’s next.
3. Scalable Coverage with Flexible Fleet Options
As your business grows, your delivery partner should grow with you. Static capacity or limited service zones will only hold you back.
Make sure your partner can:
- Handle seasonal spikes without drop-offs in service
- Offer same-day/next-day options in key markets
- Support multiple vehicle types and special handling
Newl’s last mile delivery logistics solution is built to expand. Whether you’re shipping 100 packages a week or 10,000, our network adapts to fit your growth, without compromising speed or service.
4. Data-Driven Decision-Making and Reporting
A strong delivery partner doesn’t just move packages, they move with purpose, powered by data.
You should expect detailed reporting that helps you make informed decisions, track SLAs, and spot trends early.
What to look for:
- Delivery performance analytics
- Order volume trends and regional breakdowns
- Real-time exception reporting
At Newl, we give our clients full visibility into delivery performance and inventory movement, making it easier to plan, adapt, and scale. Better data means better business decisions.
5. Flexibility to Support Growth and Seasonal Demand
Your logistics partner should be able to expand with your business.
Whether you’re scaling up for peak season or expanding into new markets, rigid capacity or service gaps can cause serious disruptions.
Signs of a flexible partner:
- Ability to ramp volume up or down quickly
- Multiple delivery modes (LTL, FTL, express)
- Warehouse and fulfillment scalability
Newl’s nationwide carrier network and scalable infrastructure gives brands the breathing room they need to grow without logistical friction.
Newl: The Last Mile Partner Trusted by Growing Brands
Not all last mile delivery service providers are built to scale with you.
At Newl, we focus on performance, visibility, and flexibility, so your customers get what they expect, and your team gets what it needs to grow.
What makes Newl the best in last mile delivery:
- Strategic warehousing in high-demand regions like Charlotte to reduce final-mile distances and cut shipping time
- Real-time tracking and control tower visibility across freight, fulfillment, and delivery
- Flexible capacity and personalized support, so you’re never boxed into a one-size-fits-all solution
All set to tighten your last mile and scale faster? Our Charlotte warehouse has capacity available, and a team ready to help you move smarter, not just faster. Let’s talk about what you’re trying to solve.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right delivery partner can make the difference between a smooth, scalable operation and a daily scramble.
As expectations for speed and visibility continue to rise, it’s essential to align with providers who bring both capability and commitment to the table.
Look for performance, tech integration, and the flexibility to grow alongside your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is last mile delivery in logistics?
Last mile delivery refers to the final leg of the delivery process, where goods move from a local warehouse or distribution center to the end customer.
It’s often the most customer-visible part of the supply chain and can significantly influence customer satisfaction.
2. How do I choose the right last mile delivery service provider?
Look for a provider with strong on-time delivery performance, real-time tracking capabilities, and scalable operations that can support your business as it grows.
Also consider responsiveness and how well their infrastructure aligns with your current and future needs.
3. Why is last mile delivery so expensive?
It involves multiple stops, urban congestion, fuel costs, and high service expectations, which drive up operational complexity and cost.
Managing returns, failed deliveries, and time-window commitments adds further strain to the economics of last mile logistics.