When supply chain disruptions make headlines, the focus tends to be on last-mile delivery — whatever keeps products from reaching consumers’ hands on time. But what happens at the beginning of the supply chain is just as crucial. The first mile lays the foundation for everything that follows, influencing costs, efficiency and overall supply resilience. 

Companies worldwide are rethinking their supply chains to make them more efficient. A PwC survey of supply chain executives showed that 45% of CEOs believe their company “won’t be viable in 10 years if it stays on its current path.” 

Despite increasing investment in logistics technology, first-mile inefficiencies remain a major hurdle. Businesses struggle with labeling errors, data silos, inefficient warehouse receiving, and poor communication with suppliers. These issues often stem from fragmented systems, lack of standardization and limited visibility, which creates cascading problems downstream. When shipments are delayed or mismanaged at the source, transportation costs rise, delivery timelines slip, and operational bottlenecks intensify.

With supply chains becoming more complex and disruptions more frequent, businesses that fail to strengthen their first-mile risk falling behind competitors who prioritize efficiency, agility, and resilience in their operations. Following are three ways companies can help get their first mile right.

Introduce standardization to reduce errors. One of the biggest hurdles in the first mile is inconsistency, especially in labeling and packaging. Mislabeling can cause shipments to be misrouted or rejected by distribution centers, leading to costly delays. Packaging issues, like inadequate protection for fragile items, can result in damaged goods and returns.

Companies can significantly reduce these risks by standardizing labeling and packaging specifications across suppliers. They should implement strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure uniformity. Additionally, automation technologies such as barcode scanning and RFID tagging can eliminate manual errors and improve tracking accuracy.

Businesses that have introduced automated labeling systems report fewer misdirected shipments and faster processing times at receiving docks. UPS reportedly dropped its misload rate by 67% after implementing an RFID system. Targeting investments that solve specific problems — like RFID for sorting errors — is critical for minimizing disruptions.

Enhance visibility and communication. A lack of real-time data visibility creates blind spots in first-mile operations. Companies often receive incomplete or outdated information about their shipments, making it difficult to anticipate delays or adjust plans accordingly. This is particularly problematic when dealing with multiple suppliers across different regions. Anvyl’s State of Supply Chain 2024 report found that over half of brands surveyed identified visibility as a top priority.

Businesses can increase visibility by centralizing their supply chain data into a single platform that integrates with suppliers’ systems. Real-time tracking tools provide instant updates on shipment status, allowing companies to be more proactive in mitigating disruptions. Predictive analytics can also help forecast potential delays, giving teams more time to adjust.

Effective supplier communication is another key element. Many disruptions stem from misaligned expectations or last-minute changes that aren’t communicated effectively. Establishing clear communication protocols — such as automated alerts for shipment delays or discrepancies — ensures all stakeholders are on the same page. Companies that build strong supplier relationships through regular collaboration and data=sharing will be better equipped to handle first-mile uncertainties.

Optimize warehouse and transportation logistics. Warehouse-receiving inefficiencies are another common first-mile challenge. Delays in unloading, poor inventory tracking, and mismanaged scheduling can create bottlenecks that ripple throughout the supply chain. If warehouse teams aren’t prepared to receive shipments efficiently, trucks may sit idle.

A well-structured receiving process can significantly enhance first-mile efficiency. Companies should implement digital check-in systems to schedule and prioritize incoming shipments. Automated inventory scanning upon arrival can further accelerate warehouse processing and reduce discrepancies.

Transportation scheduling is another critical factor. Poor coordination between suppliers, carriers, and warehouse teams often leads to inefficient routing and higher transportation costs. Businesses should deploy route optimization software to minimize empty miles and reduce transit times. Additionally, working with a diversified network of transportation providers can help mitigate disruptions when unexpected capacity shortages arise.

The benefits of strengthening first-mile operations extend beyond cost savings. Companies that prioritize efficiency in this critical stage will be better equipped to meet shifting customer expectations, manage supplier relationships more effectively, and improve their ability to scale operations. 

As supply chains continue to evolve, prioritizing the first mile will be essential to building resilience and ensuring long-term success. That critical first stage is an opportunity to gain a strategic edge in an increasingly complex global marketplace. 

Rodney Manzo is founder and chief executive officer of Anvyl.