“The invisible thread of logistics binds the fabric of commerce and trade.”

– Rosemary Gibson

 

Each year, operational errors and downtime cost the transportation and supply chain sectors more than $15 billion. Large businesses and individual carriers are also unable to move adequate freight.

All of these components contribute to price increases and the exodus of logistics providers from the market. Prior to the advent of logistics app development, this was the largest problem facing the transport industry.

The supply chain and related industries have advanced significantly as a result of logistics app development. By eliminating middlemen in the supply chain, logistics applications have boosted transparency. Today, a remarkable quantity of businesses are converting to on-demand logistics app development, creating a $25.22 billion market.  .

Thus, if you are also keen to know the whereabouts of logistics app development, this is the right place for you. This blog gives you an overview of the logistics market, explains how on-demand logistics apps function and what they can do for you, and discusses the costs involved in developing a logistics app.

So let’s begin.

 

What is Logistics App Development?

Logistics app development involves creating mobile applications that streamline and optimize logistics operations. These apps are designed to simplify tasks such as inventory management, order tracking, fleet management, and delivery scheduling.

 

 

Through user-friendly interfaces, logistics personnel can easily access real-time data, improve efficiency, and make informed decisions. These apps also enable better communication between team members and customers, leading to smoother operations and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Ultimately, logistics app development aims to revolutionize the transportation and supply chain industry, making it more agile and responsive to the demands of modern business. Moreover, the NDA for app development is unquestionably the first thing you must think about when developing your first app. An NDA for app development will prevent any potential issues in addition to guaranteeing the privacy of your concept.

Market Statistics of The Logistics Industry

 

 

• The logistics industry is expected to reach a scale of 14,08 trillion U.S. dollars by 2028.
• In 2021, the global logistics industry was valued at over 8,4 trillion euros and it is expected to reach 13.7 billion euro by 2027.
• In 2020, the total global logistics costs will have risen to nine trillion U.S. dollars. This represents 10.7% of the global Gross domestic Product (GDP), which was 85.24 trillion U.S. dollars in that year.
• By 2025, it is anticipated that the market would have grown to 1.6 billion dollars.
• In 2022, it is anticipated that the Indian logistics industry would grow to 274 billion dollars. At a compound annual growth rate of 9.4%, this market was projected to increase from 274 billion US dollars in 2022 to 563 billion dollars by 2030.
• By 2050, the total ton-miles in the United States is expected to be 8.14 trillion.
• H. Robinson, and XPO Logistics Inc. are among the leading logistic companies in America. Robinson and XPO Logistics Inc.

 

 

Types of Logistics Applications

There are 5 types of apps that can improve the efficiency of your logistic organization. Let’s quickly go through each type of logistics software app. We’ve listed the types of software that are most in demand by the logistics industry.

 

 

● Location Tracking App

Location tracking is an essential feature of your logistics business. With the location tracking app development, users are allowed for tracking cargo and vehicles between the hub and their destination.

The driver’s position is displayed prominently. Logistics tracking apps can help warehouse managers by letting them know about traffic jams, the routes taken by drivers and their time of arrival.

 

● Transportation Management System

A transport management system can help businesses execute their daily tasks smoothly and grow the business. A transport management system can be built by a reliable on demand app development company that develops transport and logistics apps. It allows you to build a system that is accurate and specialized for your logistics business without adding any additional chaos.

 

● Asset Tracking and Management

Any logistics company that uses fleet management software must include an asset tracking feature. This feature allows them to track assets, locate them and manage their warehouse. This feature is designed to provide tracking reports for goods, carriers and cargo. Asset tracking allows users to combine fleet management and inventory management in order to get a better physical location.

 

● Fleet Management

The logistics app development aims to record data and information about fleets and vehicles. By organizing, managing, and coordinating vehicles through a centralized information system, these logistics applications may assist businesses in running fleet operations smoothly and effectively.

It is well recognized that the creation of fleet management logistics applications with reputed companies lowers mobile app development cost, enhances performance, and complies with legal requirements.

 

● On-Demand Logistics

The applications that fall into this category deal with the logistics app delivery of goods as per user’s requirements. Apps for transport and logistics, such as on-demand delivery apps, on-demand services at home apps etc. They not only satisfy users’ immediate demands, but they also foster gratifying interactions with clients.

 

Key Features to Integrate in Logistics App

Features are the crucial part of the app development process, as the functionality of the app depends on it. So when you integrate the below features in your software, you should consult with the GPS tracking software development company.

 

1. Customer Panel

• User Registration and App Login:

Users must register and log in before they can access the app. App registration should include multiple options, such as phone number or email ID.

 

• Vehicle Selection:

It is a key feature that allows users to choose the vehicle they want to use on an app for on-demand logistics. The users can select the vehicle according to their needs. There are many different types of vehicles available, such as vans, trucks, trailers, container trucks, etc.

 

• Schedule and Manage Bookings:

You can schedule a pick-up and use the service immediately. You only need to specify the date, the location and the time when you make a pre-booking.

 

 

• In-App Payment:

Allow users to pay using different methods once they log into an transport and logistics app . Multi-payment options allow users to pay with Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Paypal, Google Pay and other methods.

 

• Payment Security:

Create an in-app payment option with 2-step authentication to ensure payment security. This will reduce the risk of fraud.

 

• Real-time Tracking:

It is a crucial feature of your app. Users expect this from your transport app. So, make sure to consider it.

 

• Real-Time Alerts :

Using push notifications, you may inform consumers about critical alerts. Additionally, it raises user interest.

 

• Estimate Fare:

When using online logistics or transportation services, inform customers of the cost. You should hire an app developer to help you implement a fare estimator that is based on package size and weight.

 

• Access History:

Users may utilize this functionality to quickly decide what to do next by looking at past transactions, invoices, and service providers.

 

• Ratings and Reviews:

It would be wonderful to have a feature which allows users to give feedback based on the experience they had.

 

2. Driver Panel

 

 

• Registration and Authentication:

Drivers can access the app with the credentials that have been approved by the administrator. Uploading documents is also required for verification.

 

• Manage Requests:

Provide drivers and dispatchers with the ability to accept or refuse the order request based on their availability.

 

• Make Availability:

Drivers can now show their availability as DND, Unavailability, or Busy Time. They can better manage their requests.

 

• Navigation:

The app has a navigation feature that helps drivers and distributors choose the best route for their customers. It will actually help them deliver the goods on time.

 

• Payment:

Using multi-payment gateway integration, drivers may take payments made using credit and debit cards as well as other payment methods.

3. Admin Panel

 

 

• Login/Dashboard:

Using the credentials, admins can log into the app to access the dashboard. The admin can see all pending and completed orders in real-time.

 

• Fleet and Vehicle Management:

The admin can simply manage fleets thanks to this functionality. It will be much simpler for the administrator to update outdated cars and add new ones.

 

• Manage Payments and Invoices:

Allows you to create and update invoicing, manage payments, and approve payments.

 

• Drivers Monitoring:

This function helps manage and assign tasks to drivers/dispatchers, and monitor their on-road activities, pending requests and time spent driving.

Innovative Technologies Transforming the Logistics Sector

Here are the trending technologies that will reshape the logistics sector. So let’s have a look:

 

1. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) acts as a wise assistance who supports our decision-making. The supply chain has been changed by AI. AI-powered predictive analysis can forecast demand and allow companies to plan accordingly.

Real-time trackers and AI-driven route optimization make sure that goods are delivered fast and effectively. AI-enabled bots offer quick and helpful service to customers, solving problems and answering questions.

By partnering with an AI development company, logistics businesses can harness the power of AI to streamline processes, optimize efficiency, and reduce operational costs.

2. Internet of Things

Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of devices that are connected and communicate with one another. IoT devices are essential in the supply chain. Sensors monitor and track shipments in real time, giving information about their location and state.

It aids in making sure that goods are delivered promptly and safely. IoT devices allow for real-time inventory tracking, which allows companies to monitor their stock levels in order to avoid shortages. Remote equipment monitoring also helps improve the efficiency of machinery and reduce downtime.

3. Blockchain

Transparency and security are provided for supply chain transactions via blockchain technology. This is a non-alterable ledger-like system that records all transactions.

Blockchain is an immutable system of record keeping that makes it easier to authenticate and trace products. Smart contracts, which are self-executing and automated agreements, simplify processes and eliminate the need for middlemen, making transactions quicker. So you can incorporate transparency and security into your logistics app with a blockchain development services provider.

4. Robotics and Autonomous Vehicles

The management of warehouses and the delivery of goods are being revolutionized by robots and autonomous vehicles. Automated systems are able to pick, pack and sort products, increasing efficiency in the warehouse and reducing mistakes.

Delivery is made faster and more accurate with the use of self-driving vehicles and drones. Cobots are collaborative robots that work with humans to improve productivity and safety at the workplace.

5. Big Data & Data Analytics

Big Data is the term used to describe the vast amount of data generated each day. Making sense of the data and gaining insightful knowledge is made possible by data analytics. Supply chain processes are optimized, and efficiency is raised, via decision-making that is data-driven.

Predictive analytics allows companies to identify potential risks and take preventive action. Companies can track and analyze their logistics operations in real-time and make necessary adjustments.

 

Tech Stack Required For Logistics App Development

When it comes to the success of your app, you need to carefully select the technology stack. When selecting the technology stack, it is important to consider the most popular technologies, their relevance for the project and the abilities of the development team.

 

Components	Tech Stack
Push Notifications	Twilio or Push.io
Frontend Development	Swift, Java, CSS, BootStrap
Credentials authentication login	Nexmo or Twilio
For BackEnd Development	JavaScript, Ruby, Angular, Python
Payment Gateways	PayPal, Stripe, Braintree, or other E Wallets
Application and Data	jQuery, Bootstrap, Angular, Amazon Elasticache, Groovy, Amazon RDS
For Database requirements	MongoDB, Cassandra, Postgres, Hbase
Utilities	Amazon SNS, Heap
For Cloud platform solution	Google, Azure, or AWS

Factors Affecting The logistics App Development Cost

Let’s talk about the factors that influence your logistics app development costs with a set of unique requirements according to the logistics app development company:

 

● Backend and Frontend Development

Frontend development involves creating a brilliant UI to attract users, engage them as they use the app and make them use the functionalities with ease. A robust backend is needed for logistics that have a high number of users.

This will allow the system to handle traffic increases without any problems. The logistics mobile app development cost is affected by the level of UI complexity, backend strength and technology leverage.

 

● Choose the Right Tech Stack

Businesses that are looking to advance their logistics solutions prefer to integrate the latest technology trends. These include blockchain for secure data access, analytics of big data to know unexpected things in advance, RFID and NFC solutions for observing parcels in bulk securely, pre-generated routes for faster delivery, chatbots for customer service, and mapping nearby facilities. Costs increase as more advanced features are implemented.

 

● Platform (Android and iOS)

Android suffers from fragmentation of devices compared to iOS. When developing an app for the Android platform, developers must invest more time and effort in version compatibility, design resolution and testing.

Apple’s strict policies and guidelines require developers to put more effort into security and quality testing when developing iOS apps. Android logistics mobile apps cost around $20,000, while iOS logistic apps are priced at $25,000. Do not consider this as a fixed sum to be paid. The development costs for each platform are based on different parameters.

● Development Approach

Native development involves starting from scratch and utilizing an operating system-specific programming language to create the app. Cross-platform development allows apps to be developed on multiple platforms, increasing their accessibility for a wider audience. In conclusion, native app development is cheaper than cross-platform development. The cross-platform method is a compromise in quality.

● The Size of the Development Team

The cost of development increases when the project is large and requires a team with experienced developers and specialists. The hourly rates of experienced and specialist developers are quite high compared to junior programmers.

● Location of The Company

Developers from the USA, UK and Europe charge $25-75 an hour for basic app creation, while developers in South Asia charge $15-$25 an hour. The location of app developers affects the cost of app development.

 

How Much Does the Logistics App Development Cost?

 

 

Costs associated with developing a logistics app are determined by these elements. The kind of development will determine how much it generally cost to develop a mobile app. Consider this, for instance.

 

Type of App	Costs
Simple App	$8000-$13000
Moderate App	$15000-$20000
Advanced & Complex App	$25000 or more

• Simple apps for on-demand would cost between$8,000 and $15,000 to create.
• A complicated, medium-sized on-demand service would cost between $15,000and $20,000 to design a logistics app for.
• And depending on other criteria like logistics mobile app design, logistics mobile app features, etcThe cost of developing a fully featured complicated on-demand app for logistics would range from$25,000 to as high as you want it to be.

Conclusion

It is fair to conclude this blog by saying that technological integration can make a significant difference in the logistics and transport industry. It is a wise decision to invest in logistics app development that will streamline your complex operations and help you manage data and fleets.

So you must hire a mobile application development company to help make your app work. They will integrate features and functionality according to the market’s and users’ needs. The logistics industry is growing rapidly, so now is the perfect time to create an on-demand logistics app.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to Create a Transportation App?

To create a transportation app, you need to follow the below steps:

1. Define the app’s purpose and target audience.
2. Conduct market research and identify competitors.
3. Plan app features and user interface.
4. Hire developers or use app development platforms.
5. Test, launch, and market the app
6. Maintenance and support services

2. How Much Time Does it Take to Build a Logistics App?

The complexity, features, and available resources all influence how long it takes to design a logistics app. It can take 3-6 months or longer. A logistics app must be properly planned, designed, and developed in order to be effective within the projected timeline.

3. How Do on-Demand Logistics Applications Benefit Your Transport Business?

By adding more chaos within the app, an on-demand logistics app will effectively assist you in designing the app to meet your company demands. With the aid of customization, you will have an advantage over your rivals in terms of service and customer experience.

4. How to Monetize a Logistics App?

The following strategies can be used to monetize a logistics app: provide businesses with premium subscription plans with extra features; charge a commission on transactions made possible by the app; offer targeted advertising opportunities to logistics-related businesses; and implement in-app purchases for value-added services like real-time tracking and analytics.

5. What Are the Top 5 Most Popular Logistics Apps?

Here are the best app for logistics that you take into considerations:

• Uber Freight
• Convoy
• Flexport
• ShipBob
• H. Robinson