Monday 13 December 2021

Royal Mail partners with Ford to trial delivery software

Royal Mail has partnered with Ford to trial more sustainable parcel deliveries in Manchester.

The trial uses Ford’s routing software to help Royal Mail deliver more goods on foot and use less vans throughout the city.

Postmen and women used an app on their phones with Ford’s software to see the most efficient routes to deliver the parcels and ensured that multiple deliveries could be made using just one vehicle.

Van usage for delivery routes halved and mileage decreased by 33% with the use of the software.

The trial took place in preparation for Manchester’s Clean Air Zone, which will see van charges come into effect from 2023.

Tom Thompson, Founder, Last Mile Delivery at Ford Mobility, said: “Our software made it possible for Royal Mail to help reduce carbon emissions and congestion in city centres.

“As we enter the busiest and most magical time of year for parcels, we are delighted to see the results of this trial prove the value of delivery on foot and the effectiveness of Ford's software in making city centres cleaner, greener and safer.”