In the e-commerce shipping sector, time and efficiency can significantly impact business success; the speed of moving goods is crucial for customer retention and cost optimisation.

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Traditional carriers can take up to seven days for ground shipping, so expanding shipping options beyond traditional carriers allows businesses more flexibility and increased efficiency in their supply chain.

Delta Cargo’s e-commerce solution, DeliverDirect, offers a tailored solution for shippers by combining transparent pricing with rapid service, enabled by the airline’s operational reliability and extensive domestic network. With various service options, DeliverDirect empowers customers to customise their solutions according to their preferences and, most importantly, their customers’ needs.

“Delta Cargo’s DeliverDirect represents a pioneering solution in the US domestic market, merging the expertise of an innovative tech company and a leading domestic air carrier,” Jeffrey Elder, Head of Product Development at Delta Cargo, said.

“SmartKargo, our best-in-class partner, brings top-notch technology and proficiency in small package logistics, perfectly complements Delta Cargo’s innovative approach.

“The simple pricing structure and customised offering set DeliverDirect apart from other providers in the market. DeliverDirect provides simplicity and transparency in costs, free from unnecessary or accessorial fees.

“This straightforward approach eliminates surprise costs and additional reconciliations. Additionally, DeliverDirect operates without the complexities of zone-based pricing, relieving shippers of the need for zone management.”

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Seamless and tailored

Delta Cargo’s DeliverDirect utilises dedicated capacity on Delta passenger flights and thus provides customers with access to Delta’s extensive domestic network, with over 2,500 flights a day.

DeliverDirect customers also benefit from the proven operational reliability that Delta provides. Delta Air Lines was named the most on-time airline in North America in 2023 (according to Cirium).

“In contrast to conventional shipping providers, DeliverDirect offers seamless package tracking throughout transit, including in the air, enabling shippers to monitor the entire journey from warehouse to customer doorstep,” Elder stated.

“DeliverDirect also leverages advanced technology for proactive communication and complete visibility throughout the customer experience.

“Shippers can adapt their services with various add-ons, including customised pick-up times, geo-fenced notifications for consumers, multiple delivery attempts, signature required deliveries, proof-of-delivery and photo-on-delivery and advanced reporting.”

Transforming the market

At its core, Delta Cargo and SmartKargo’s collaboration is about innovation, presenting a product driven by simplicity and transparency that provides a new offering in the marketplace in terms of transit time, pricing, and visibility.

“DeliverDirect offers a valuable enhancement to our already robust suite of Delta Cargo product offerings, enabling us to penetrate a new market segment. With DeliverDirect, we look forward to continuing to assist e-commerce retailers in swiftly shipping parcels across the US market,” Elder continued.