Food distribution in Colombia presents unique challenges for logistics and transportation companies. From geographical diversity to address complexity, ensuring efficient and on-time deliveries is no easy task. One of the most critical — and often underestimated — factors is the quality of the data, especially with regard to directions and geographical coordinates.

In this article, we explore how data impacts the efficiency of food logistics in Colombia and why accurate information is essential to operate successfully.

Food distribution in Colombia and Latin America: a challenging context

Colombia is a country with densely populated urban areas and vast rural regions with limited infrastructure. This territorial diversity represents a major logistical challenge for companies that distribute perishable products. Every delivery must be made in a timely manner to preserve the cold chain and ensure customer satisfaction.

Problem 1: Unstructured or unclear directions

One of the main obstacles is the inconsistency in writing addresses. In many regions, addresses do not follow a standard format and may include non-technical references such as “in front of the school” or “next to the big tree”.

This type of information may work for a local delivery person, but not for an automated route planning system. The lack of structure makes geocoding difficult and slows down the entire logistics process.

Problem 2: Absence of accurate GPS coordinates

Geographic coordinates are the most reliable way to identify exact locations. When companies don't have precise coordinates associated with their addresses, optimization algorithms lose efficiency.

This can translate into:

• Longer or poorly calculated routes
• Increases in fuel consumption
• Delays in deliveries
• Difficulties calculating realistic time windows

Have access to reliable latitudes and longitudes significantly improves system performance and reduces the margin of error.

Solution: How Routal improves food logistics in Colombia and Latin America

Routal is a SaaS solution designed to plan, optimize and monitor distribution routes. To achieve this precisely, it relies on high-quality data and advanced geolocation tools.

Among its key features:

• Automatic address normalization: Convert ambiguous descriptions into standardized formats.
• Precise geocoding: Transforms addresses into ready-to-use coordinates.
• Integration with updated maps and local geographic databases.
• Planning based on real data: allows you to calculate routes considering logistics restrictions, delivery times and business priorities.

Summary: Data is the basis for efficient logistics

Last-mile logistics in Colombia, especially in the food sector, requires more than vehicles and routes: it needs clean, structured and georeferenced data.
Investing in information quality is key to reducing costs, increasing efficiency and improving the end customer experience.

With tools like Routal, companies can transform operational chaos into a fluid, automated and reliable system.

Contact us to learn more!

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The last mile is one of the most critical and complex sections of the entire logistics chain. And although we often talk about route optimization or cost reduction, there is an equally crucial aspect that is often overlooked: communication between the key actors in the cast. We refer to logistics managers, delivery people and, of course, end customers.

In this article we are going to break down the main communication problems that currently exist, why they continue to occur and, most importantly, how we can solve them using modern tools and more efficient flows.

📞 The phone: the king who no longer reigns

In many delivery companies, the main communication tool is still the telephone. It's a fast, straightforward, and widely adopted solution. But it is also the source of numerous problems that directly affect operational efficiency.

Problems with (synchronous) telephone communication between manager and delivery person

1. Time lock
2. A call requires simultaneous attention from both people. If you are busy, the entire operation is delayed.
3. Constant interruptions
4. The manager interrupts the delivery person to answer questions or make adjustments, affecting their concentration and productivity.
5. Mutual dependence
6. If the delivery person doesn't answer, the manager is left without information. If the manager is not available, the delivery person gets frustrated.
7. Lack of traceability
8. The calls leave no clear or organized record of what has been said or agreed.
9. Coverage or noise issues
10. In rural areas or noisy environments, voice communication is inefficient or even impossible.

🧍 ‍ ♂️📱 Deliver-customer communication: the big bottleneck

The other major battle front in the last mile is the interaction with the end customer. Here, too, the telephone reigns, with equally questionable results.

Main customer communication issues

1. Last-minute alerts
2. Many delivery people call just a couple of minutes before arriving, leaving little room for the customer to react.
3. Unanswered calls
4. The customer may be busy, at work, or without coverage. This requires repeated attempts, causing delays.
5. Unnecessary waste of time
6. Coordinating deliveries over the phone multiplies downtime, especially when you have to retry or wait for answers.
7. Ambiguity and errors
8. Poorly indicated addresses, unclear instructions, or last-minute changes without documentation.
9. Unnecessary tension
10. Calls can lead to misunderstandings or even conflicts if there are unpunctualities or unmet expectations.

💡 How to improve communication in the last mile?

1. Using Asynchronous Messaging Platforms

Tools such as Routal they make it possible to establish asynchronous communication channels where information flows without the need for both parties to be available at the same time. This allows:

• Leave clear, written instructions.
• Record incidents and inquiries.
• Send automatic notifications about the status of the cast.
• Notify in advance, generating options for the end customer and for the manager.

2. Smart notifications for the customer

Customers can receive automatic notifications by SMS, email or WhatsApp stating:

• Estimated time of arrival.
• Number of stops remaining before yours.
• Possibility to change the time or place of delivery from the mobile phone.
• Ability to send messages to the delivery person to find solutions or alternatives

3. Real-time tracking portals

A solution such as Routal allows us to offer the customer a tracking link where you can see the location of the delivery person and their progress. This reduces unnecessary calls and increases customer satisfaction.

4. Quick feedback and issue forms

Both the delivery person and the customer can report problems in a structured way (damaged package, wrong address, missing customer...), which avoids long calls and centralizes management.

5. Integration with planning and CRM tools

By having all the information centralized, the logistics manager can make faster and more data-based decisions: redistribute routes, assign tasks, anticipate delays or manage incidents.

🧭 Result

The last mile is not only about kilometers traveled, but about people who understand each other (or not). If we continue to rely on the telephone as the only communication tool, we are doomed to a system that is fragile, inefficient and difficult to scale.

Moving to smarter solutions such as Routal improves coordination, reduces errors and, above all, Save time for the whole team. Because in the end, good communication doesn't just deliver packages... Give peace of mind.

If you feel that you have this type of problem, I encourage you to try Routal Planner or Schedule a call.

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Until now, enjoying advanced technology to plan routes, save gas or replan deliveries in real time seemed like a luxury reserved for large companies. But that's over. With the new application Routal Drivers, autonomous drivers can now access the same tools that large fleets use... from their mobile and in a matter of minutes!

What makes Routal Drivers so special?

We know what it means to be self-employed: every minute counts, every liter of gasoline adds up, and every diversion can mean a failed delivery. That's why Routal Drivers has been designed with you in mind, the driver who does everything. Here are some of its main advantages:

⏱️ Time savings

Routal Drivers automatically generates the best possible route for all your stops of the day. Forget about wasting time reorganizing maps or looking for directions. The app does the work for you, optimizing each journey.

⛽ Fuel savings

Thanks to smarter and more efficient routes, you'll spend less on fuel. That translates directly into more benefits for you, without changing the way you work.

📍 Reach customers faster

Do you have deliveries in new or complex areas? Routal Drivers precisely guides you to the customer's door, using real-time information about traffic and road conditions.

🔄 Replan as you go

Do you have a new stop while you are en route? Does the customer change your address? With Routal Drivers you can add, remove or reorder stops at any time, and the application recalculates your route instantly.

🚶🚴🚛 Multi-mode of transport

It doesn't matter if you go by van, bike or on foot: Routal Drivers adapts to the way you move, to offer you the best route depending on your vehicle and the type of delivery you make.

📲 Download it now and start saving

Whether you're a freelance deliveryman or you're working as a freelancer for marketplaces or small businesses, Solo Drivers is made for you.

• Download on Android (Google Play Store)
• Download on iOS (App Store)

Routal now puts technology in your hands. You don't need to be a big company to work like one. Grow your business with Solo Drivers!

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La lack of delivery people has become one of the main challenges faced by logistics and distribution companies. According to recent data, more than 90% of companies They have Problems hiring delivery people, directly affecting the efficiency of their last-mile operations. But why are there a shortage of drivers? What solutions are there to mitigate this problem?

In this article, we explain the causes of the shortage of delivery people, their impact on the business and how technological solutions for delivery, like Routal, can help you maintain high performance even in high-turnover settings.

🔍 Why is there such a lack of delivery people?

1. Structural deficit in the sector

In Spain, the logistics sector has a Deficit of 15,000 professional drivers, and the projections are not encouraging at all. This problem has become a threat to the continuity of logistics operations, especially in urban distribution.

2. High delivery turnover

The delivery job, although not underpaid, is physically demanding, stressful and, in many cases, precarious. This generates a high delivery turnover, forcing companies to constantly invest in new selection and training processes.

3. Lack of generational replacement

Only 4.5% of delivery people are under 25 years old. The profession is not attractive to young people, who are looking for jobs that are more technological, flexible or with better working conditions.

4. Labor competence with other sectors

Many people with professional driving licenses prefer to work in public sectors or urban transport companies where working conditions are more stable and predictable.

🛠️ Technological solutions to combat the lack of delivery people

In this context, technology becomes a strategic ally. Platforms such as Routal offer specific tools that allow companies to deal with lack of delivery people without compromising the quality of service.

✅ Route optimization

Thanks to Routal's advanced planning engine, it is possible to assign more efficient routes to each driver. Not only does this reduce total work time, but it also allows for more deliveries with fewer resources. Reducing the need for a large number of delivery people.

✅ Reducing operational stress

With optimized routes, real-time tracking and automatic notifications, drivers have to make fewer decisions under pressure, improving their experience and loyalty.

✅ Higher productivity with less staff

Routal allows maintain high performance even with a small workforce. Automatic analysis tools and reports allow you to detect bottlenecks and adjust operations in real time.

✅ Better communication and feedback

The integration of satisfaction surveys and the total visibility of deliveries generate greater motivation in delivery people, knowing that their work is valued and visible.

🚀 Conclusion: A lack of delivery people doesn't have to slow down your business

La Shortage of delivery people it's real, but It's not a conviction. If your company is experimenting Problems hiring delivery people or suffer from high turnover, adopt a platform such as Routal can make a difference.

Investing in technology not only solves immediate operational challenges, but it also makes the work environment a more attractive, efficient and sustainable place for drivers.

Do you want to see how Routal can help you? 💡 Request a demo and transform your last-mile logistics.

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In the daily life of a delivery company — whether it's food, e-commerce or messaging — there are hundreds of micro-decisions, repetitive tasks and communication problems that consume time and energy. Although Routal already covers many of these needs with specialized last-mile technology, the intelligent use of tools such as Chat GPT can further complement and optimize these processes.

In this article we show you How ChatGPT can help you gain efficiency, improve customer service and make better decisions in less time. We also include examples of specific prompts that you can start using today.

What processes can ChatGPT help with?

1. Faster and more accurate customer support

Although Routal allows your customers to follow their orders in real time, the support team often continues to answer common questions. ChatGPT can help you write automatic answers or templates for frequently asked questions.

Useful prompt:

“Write a friendly answer for a customer who asks why their order is delayed.”

2. Fleet maintenance

Before starting the day, it is important to have a good fleet maintenance. ChatGPT can help you create a checklist sheet to ensure that your fleet is always available.

Useful prompt:

“I have 5 vehicles to carry out the distribution, create a checklist in which to review the usual maintenance points of each of the vehicles to ensure maximum availability.”

Link to the conversation

‍3. Internal management and coordination

You can use ChatGPT to write route summaries, communicate changes to the team, or even generate internal reports from free text.

Useful prompt:

“Write an internal message for the cast team explaining that tomorrow zone XXX will be blocked by works and that we must avoid it.”

4. Content Generation and Marketing

Small businesses often don't have time to maintain active social networks or send newsletters. ChatGPT can help you create content in minutes.

Useful prompt:

“Write a LinkedIn post for a sustainable delivery company that has managed to reduce delivery times by 30% using technology.”

5. Customer Satisfaction Analysis

If you use Routal surveys, you can paste comments into ChatGPT and ask for a summary or identify trends in feedback.

Useful prompt:

“Summarize the main complaints of these 15 customer reviews after the last delivery day.”

How to combine ChatGPT with Routal to get the best of both worlds

Routal already automates the most complex things: optimal route planning, real-time monitoring and the collection of customer feedback. ChatGPT does not replace any of this, but rather complement it. It helps you interpret data, communicate better and save time on tasks that still require a human touch.

The key is to integrate it into your daily workflows: writing, analyzing, communicating and deciding.

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In the world of ecommerce and logistics “last mile” has become one of the biggest operational challenges. It's not just a matter of getting a package from the warehouse to the customer's door. It's also a race against time, expectation and efficiency.

One of the main problems faced by companies today is the high percentage of failed deliveries on the first attempt. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 deliveries cannot be completed on the first attempt, mainly because the customer is not available to receive their order. This initial failure is not trivial: it has both economic and environmental consequences, and it directly affects the customer experience.

Why do so many deliveries fail?

The main reason behind failed deliveries is the Absence of the recipient at the time of delivery. Either because I wasn't at home, because I couldn't attend to the delivery person, or because there was a last-minute unforeseen event.

When a delivery fails, not only do costs increase for the company —having to organize a second or even third visit—, but also Customer dissatisfaction soars, complaints are generated, and the carbon footprint increases due to additional trips. Added to this is the risk that couriers, under pressure for efficiency, will resort to undesirable practices, such as leaving packages in unsafe places or without authorization.

Solutions to improve the success rate

The good news is that there are effective ways to attack this problem and significantly improve the first-time success rate. The two main strategies are:

1. Involve the customer in the delivery process

Notify with precision the estimated time of delivery, within a reduced time slot (ideally less than two hours), allows the customer to organize themselves in sufficient time. It's no longer enough to say “we'll deliver between 9:00 and 22:00”; today's consumers expect clear communication, in real time, and with dynamic updates.

The more certainty provided to the customer, it will most likely be available to receive your package.

2. Allow the choice of a time zone

Another, even more effective option is to allow the customer himself Select the time zone that best suits your availability. Although this option may involve a somewhat higher logistics cost, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages: delivery success rates can exceed 99.5% on the first attempt.

A clear example can be seen in models such as that of Ametller Origen, where the system of concerted time windows has demonstrated almost total success in delivering orders.

The impact on companies: much more than costs

Failed deliveries don't just represent an additional operating cost. They also profoundly affect the business:

• Less satisfied customers and lower repeat purchase rate.
• Increase in reverse logistics, with the need to return undelivered products.
• Negative environmental impact due to the increase in kilometers traveled unnecessarily.
• Increased pressure on delivery personnel, which can result in errors or malpractices.

Every failed attempt is a missed opportunity to strengthen the relationship with the customer.

How can Routal help you?

At Routal, we understand that every delivery counts. That's why our platform offers tools that allow:

• Plan optimized routes and adjusted to dynamic time windows.
• Notify automatically to customers with accurate arrival times.
• Facilitate the choice of time slots, integrating customer availability into route planning.
• Reduce the rate of failed deliveries, improving operational efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Thanks to intelligent planning and the integration of the customer experience into daily operations, it is possible Turning the last-mile challenge into a competitive advantage.

How to achieve success?

In last-mile logistics, successful delivery on the first attempt isn't optional: it's essential. Companies that adopt technologies and strategies to improve the delivery experience will not only optimize their costs, but will also build a more loyal and committed customer base.

Do you want to know how Routal can transform your last-mile operation? Find out today and start making a difference in every delivery.

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Cada 23 de abril, las calles de Barcelona se llenan de color, cultura y emoción. Es Sant Jordi, el día en que las personas intercambian libros y rosas como símbolo de amor y amistad, transformando la ciudad en una librería y floristería al aire libre. Pero, ¿alguna vez te has parado a pensar en lo que hay detrás de esta mágica jornada?

Desde muy temprano por la mañana hasta bien entrada la noche, miles de floristas, libreros, editoriales, repartidores y voluntarios trabajan contrarreloj para que todo esté donde tiene que estar, justo a tiempo. Y aquí es donde la logística cobra un papel protagonista.

🎯 Un desafío de última milla en estado puro

Distribuir millones de rosas y libros en un solo día, en una ciudad que además cierra muchas calles al tráfico, no es tarea fácil. De hecho, es un ejemplo perfecto de los desafíos que Routal ayuda a resolver a diario:

• Altísima concentración de entregas en zonas muy concretas (como Las Ramblas, Passeig de Gràcia o Plaza Catalunya).
• Ventanas horarias muy ajustadas, porque los stands deben estar montados antes de la apertura y reponer durante la jornada.
• Imprevisibilidad del tráfico y eventos especiales, como desfiles, conciertos o cortes imprevistos.
• Necesidad de trazabilidad, ya que muchas entregas son de edición limitada, personalizadas o reservadas con antelación.

🛠️ Cómo se puede optimizar esta locura logística

Usar una plataforma como Routal permite a los distribuidores y organizadores de eventos como Sant Jordi planificar mejor su operación:

• Rutas optimizadas que reducen el tiempo en carretera y maximizan las entregas.
• Asignación inteligente de vehículos según la zona, el volumen de carga y la urgencia.
• Monitorización en tiempo real, lo que permite reaccionar ante imprevistos como desvíos o retrasos.
• Notificaciones a clientes y comerciantes, informándoles de cuándo y dónde recibirán sus pedidos.

❤️ Tecnología al servicio de la tradición

Sant Jordi es una celebración cargada de historia y emociones, pero también es un ejemplo real de cómo la tecnología puede facilitar la vida sin restar magia al momento. Gracias a soluciones como Routal, se puede mantener la eficiencia operativa y al mismo tiempo cuidar la experiencia de cada lector, florista y enamorado.

Este 23 de abril, mientras paseas por Barcelona entre libros y rosas, piensa en todos los engranajes logísticos que hay funcionando en segundo plano. Y si formas parte de ese equipo que lo hace posible: ¡gràcies i bona feina!

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Last-mile logistics has become one of the greatest challenges — and opportunities — for any delivery company. Why? Because it represents even the 53% of the total cost of shipping, according to multiple studies. But it's also the point where it can be optimized the most, especially with technology like Routal.

In this article, we show you how you can significantly reduce your costs at this critical stage, both directly and indirectly.

📉 Direct savings: Fewer kilometers, less gas, fewer hours

1. Reduction of kilometers traveled

With a smart route planner like Routal, you can optimize routes for vehicles to travel the shortest possible distance, grouping deliveries by zones and avoiding redundant routes. This translates into:

• Less wear and tear on the vehicle
• Less consumption of gasoline or electricity
• More deliveries per shift

2. Fuel savings

By optimizing routes and avoiding traffic jams or inefficient routes, fuel consumption is reduced, an expense that can represent between 20% and 30% of the total operating cost.

3. Fewer delivery hours

The most efficient routes aren't just shorter, they're also better organized. This means that the delivery person can make more deliveries in less time, or even need less staff in peak demand, maintaining the same quality of service.

🔁 Indirect savings: More loyalty, fewer incidents

4. Improving the customer experience

A customer who receives their order on time and has real-time visibility of their delivery is a happier customer. this Reduce complaints, calls to customer service and improves the withholding in the long term.

5. Lower burden on the customer support team

When the customer knows exactly when their order will arrive and can follow it in real time, You don't need to call anymore to ask “where is my order?” This frees up time for the support team for higher-value tasks.

💡 Other savings you might not have considered

6. Fewer delivery errors

Routal allows you to load specific instructions per stop and validate deliveries, which reduces incidents such as failed or poorly executed deliveries (which involve double trips and extra costs).

7. Lower delivery turnover

Deliverymen who work with clear, well-planned and stress-free routes tend to stay in the company longer, reducing training and hiring costs.

8. Better use of the fleet

By knowing the real capacity of each vehicle and optimizing its load, you can prevent vans that are half empty or poorly distributed. This reduces the need for extra vehicles or outsourced contracts.

🚀 Conclusion: Optimizing is saving

Reducing costs in the last mile isn't just about cutting, it's about Organize better. Routal allows you to optimize routes, automate processes and offer a superior experience for both the customer and the delivery person.

And the best thing of all is that Every savings accrues: fewer kilometers, less gas, fewer hours, fewer incidents... It all adds up.

Would you like to see what it would be like in your specific case? 💬

Request a personalized demo and discover how much you could save per month with Routal.

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Ayer tuvimos el privilegio de participar en la jornada #Innolablogistica organizada por el Centro Español de Logística (CEL), un evento que reunió a algunas de las startups más innovadoras del sector logístico. La jornada formaba parte del bloque Start UP Cadena de Suministro, en el que se presentaron las candidaturas finalistas de los Premios CEL 2025. Desde Routal, compartimos nuestra visión sobre los retos reales de la última milla.

La última milla: más allá de lo técnico

Durante nuestra intervención, nuestro Managing Director, Xavier Ruiz, abordó un tema fundamental: “La última milla no es un problema técnico, es otro problema.” Y es que aunque la tecnología es una parte clave de la solución, no es el único ingrediente necesario. La clave está en las personas de la orgazación. Xavier comentó la necesidad de disponer de la formación adecuada y con la capacidad de gestión del cambio como cualidades clave para afrontar cualquier proyecto de digitalización. El segundo aspecto clave son los procesos y la capacidad de identificar qué procesos son mejorables, tenerlos monitorizados para poder actuar sobre ellos. "Como todo logístico sabe, si no mides no puedes mejorar" remarcó durante la jornada.

Desde Routal hemos aprendido que escalar un negocio logístico requiere ir más allá de implementar una app o un algoritmo. Se trata de entender el complejo contexto, facilitar el trabajo de los planificadores, dar visibilidad al cliente final y ofrecer al repartidor las herramientas necesarias para ejecutar sin fricciones. La tecnología sin propósito se queda corta.

Innovaciones que están transformando la logística

El evento fue también una oportunidad para conocer otros proyectos con enfoques muy diversos pero complementarios:

• Trazabilidad total con Standtrack, que apuesta por una plataforma intermodal estándar para identificar cada bulto con un código único.
• Jotavirtual y su realidad virtual para formación logística, reduciendo tiempos y mejorando la seguridad operativa.
• Truecold, con un enfoque de valor y un software que alerta sobre alteraciones de temperatura en tiempo real.
• ActionTracker, centrada en la monitorización inteligente y la conexión de activos críticos en tiempo real para mejorar la seguridad.

Una red de colaboración que impulsa el cambio

Lo más inspirador del evento fue comprobar cómo cada proyecto, desde su ámbito, busca mejorar la eficiencia, sostenibilidad y coordinación dentro de la cadena de suministro. Eventos como este demuestran que la innovación logística no es solo una tendencia, sino una necesidad, y que la colaboración entre startups, operadores y clientes es clave para construir un futuro más conectado.

En Routal, salimos con más energía y convicción que nunca: la última milla puede y debe ser una experiencia mejor. Pero no lo lograremos solos. Lo haremos junto a una comunidad que comparte la visión de que la logística del futuro es más humana, más automatizada y más transparente.

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