The Top 30 Last-Mile Delivery Companies in 2024 (Reviews & Pricing)

Last-mile delivery is one of the most critical and costly parts of the fulfillment process, so it’s no big surprise there’s a wealth of last-mile delivery companies offering everything from next-day delivery to eco-friendly drone couriers (yes, that’s a thing). 

The more time you spend in the last-mile delivery market, you’ll notice there are three distinct types of companies operating in this area:

• Last-mile delivery software providers: a.k.a. Software companies like Circuit for Teams that offer features dedicated to massively reducing delivery costs. 
• Last-mile delivery service providers: companies like FedEx and UPS that physically deliver goods. 
• Innovative last-mile delivery companies: startups and tech-driven companies disrupting the last-mile delivery space with new models like drones and autonomous delivery robots. 
  

Our guide clearly defines each category and provides a clear overview of each company and why they made the 2024 list. We used a mix of customer reviews, investor data, and industry research to uncover the best last-mile delivery companies this year. 

The top 5 last-mile delivery companies: technology and software

Last-mile delivery management software is transforming how products reach customers. These innovative solutions tackle key challenges faced by businesses, like improving customer satisfaction, reducing the number of failed deliveries, and cutting operational costs. The best software options come with a range of important features that streamline the delivery process.

Typical features of good last-mile delivery software include: 

• Synced dispatcher dashboard that acts as a central command center for organizing and managing drivers and deliveries. 
• Separate app for drivers to manage routes, update statuses, and capture proof of delivery. 
• Live route tracking for real-time visibility of driver locations and ETAs. 
• Route planning and optimization, including AI-powered algorithms that create efficient, logical delivery routes. 
• Flexible proof of delivery, including the option to take photos and electronic signatures. 
• Customer notifications and the ability to send automated ETA updates.
• Delivery analytics and insights into driver performance

You can save a huge amount of money by bringing your last-mile delivery operation in-house and using software like Circuit for Teams to orchestrate everything. 

See how Circuit for Teams can reduce your delivery costs by 20%. Try it free. 

1. Circuit for Teams

Circuit for Teams' key features

Circuit for Teams is an all-in-one solution for last-mile delivery that aims to oil operations so they’re more efficient and cost-effective. With features that simplify route planning, offer real-time tracking, and facilitate seamless communication between dispatchers and drivers, Circuit for Teams creates a simple and hassle-free delivery process from beginning to end.

Synced dispatcher dashboard and driver app

Circuit for Teams’ integrated dashboard and app helps dispatchers and drivers work in sync. The dashboard gives a full view of all routes and deliveries, while drivers can access real-time updates through a handy mobile app.

Live driver tracking

Dispatchers can monitor driver locations in real time, allowing for better route management and more accurate ETAs (hello, happier customers). Dispatchers can quickly redirect delivery drivers if needed, update the end customer on their delivery’s progress, and optimize routes on the fly.

Route optimization

Circuit for Teams uses an advanced algorithm to optimize delivery routes, accounting for traffic, delivery windows, and package priorities. Better routes mean better fuel consumption, faster delivery, and less back and forth for drivers. And, if you need to recalculate a route because something’s changed, you absolutely can.

Route planning

Dispatchers can create and manage multiple delivery routes at once based on vehicle capacity and driver schedules. You can map out the best routes for entire fleets, balancing workloads and making sure all drivers can drop their packages on time. 

Flexible proof of delivery

Drivers can collect signatures, take photos, or scan barcodes to confirm successful deliveries—and they can choose which proof of delivery option to go for based on customer preferences and the status of a delivery. The system automatically stores and organizes PODs so you have a clear record in case you need it later.

Dynamic customer notifications

Send automated updates via SMS or email, including estimated arrival times and delivery confirmations. You can customize these real-time notifications to match your brand voice, so customers know it’s you contacting them.

Delivery analytics

Circuit for Teams’ analytics feature is particularly meaty. Get comprehensive insights into delivery performance through metrics like on-time delivery rates, average delivery times, and driver efficiency. Having all this information in one place helps you spot trends, identify areas for improvement, and make better-informed decisions. 

Multi-depot management

Do you have multiple distribution centers? No problem. Circuit for Teams lets you easily manage deliveries from different starting points. It optimizes routes across various depots, balancing workloads and minimizing how long each driver spends on the road.

What do users think of Circuit for Teams?

Circuit for Teams pricing

Circuit for Teams caters to a range of different business models with its tiered pricing structure:

• Starter: From $100 a month for 500 stops 
• Essentials: From $200 a month for 1,000 stops (but no POD or customer notifications)
• Standard: From $250 a month for 1,000 stops, POD, and dynamic customer notifications
• Pro: From $300 a month for 1,000 stops and all premium features

2. Onfleet

Onfleets' key features

Onfleet has all the usual features you’d expect a last-mile delivery platform to have—a powerful mix of route optimization, real-time tracking, and customer comms—all wrapped up in one easy-to-use platform. 

• Route planning. Easily plan and manage multiple delivery routes, considering factors like time windows and vehicle capacity.
• Live driver tracking. Monitor drivers’ real-time locations for better route management and to give customers more accurate ETAs.
• Route optimization. Onfleet’s engine considers time, location, capacity, and traffic to automatically map the best routes. 
• Auto-dispatch. Automatically assign deliveries to drivers based on their proximity. 
• Proof of delivery. Collect photos, signatures, and barcodes through the driver app. 
• Customer notifications. Send automated SMS updates to customers about delivery status and ETAs.

What do users think of Onfleet?

Onfleet pricing

Onfleet offers three tiers of pricing depending on your needs: 

• Launch: From $550 a month for 2,000 deliveries
• Scale: From $1,265 a month for 5,000 deliveries
• Custom: bespoke pricing for large operations

3. Route4Me

Route4Me's key features

Route4Me is well-versed in handling large-scale delivery operations. It can optimize routes with thousands of addresses, but its stand-out feature is its easy integration with Google Maps. 

• Route optimization. Automatically create the best routes, taking into account time windows, traffic, and vehicle capacity. 
• Multi-driver management. Easily plan and manage routes for entire fleets, balancing workloads across multiple drivers at the same time. 
• Real-time GPS tracking. See where drivers are at in real-time and adjust routes on the fly to provide more accurate ETAs. 
• Proof of delivery. Collect electronic signatures, photos, and notes through the mobile app. 

Advanced analytics. Get detailed insights into your operations with metrics like fuel costs, time savings, and driver performance.

What do users think of Route4Me?

Route4Me pricing

Like the other software here, Route4Me has a range of pricing tiers to suit different business models: 

• Route management: From £32 per user per month with a £160 a month minimum (doesn’t include route optimization)
• Route optimization: From £48 per user per month with a £240 a month minimum (does not handle mixed fleets or optimize across multiple depots)
• Business optimization: From £72 per user per month with a £360 minimum

4. RoadWarrior Flex

RoadWarrier Flex's key features

RoadWarrior Flex is a well-established last-mile delivery software that comes with all the usual features. It also integrates with MapQuest for enhanced mapping and routing capabilities. 

• Route optimization. Automatically create the most logical routes based on traffic, time windows, and vehicle capacity. 
• Auto-dispatching. Assign deliveries to drivers based on customizable rules, as well as optimize resource allocation so drivers don’t have to go out of their way. 
• Real-time GPS tracking. See where drivers are in real-time, adjust routes, and give customers accurate ETAs. 
• Proof of delivery. Collect electronic signatures and photos, and add notes to the mobile app to log each successful delivery. 
• Web and mobile sync. Seamlessly transfer information from the dispatcher dashboard to the driver mobile app for in-the-moment updates.

What do users think of RoadWarrior Flex?

RoadWarrior Flex pricing

There’s only one pricing tier for RoadWarrior Flex and it charges per team member. Prices start at $14.99 per user, per month, and include up to 200 stops in each route.

5. Bringg

Bringg's key features

Bringg offers a unique modular approach to last-mile delivery. You can start with basic features and add the building blocks for more complex needs as you grow. Otherwise, it has all the usual features of a last-mile delivery software

• Route optimization. Automatically create the best routes and assign deliveries to the right drivers.
• Multi-carrier management. Integrate the platform with over 200 carriers and manage them all from one place. 
• Real-time tracking. Get live updates on driver locations and delivery status for dispatchers, customers, and retailers. 
• Modular platform. Customize your account with the features you need as you grow. 
• Omnichannel fulfillment integration. Bringg partners with Blue Yonder to connect first, middle, and last-mile logistics for complete supply chain visibility.

What do users think of Bringg?

Bringg pricing

Bringg doesn’t have distinct pricing tiers because it works on a customizable, modular basis. You can basically add and remove the features you need and get charged accordingly. To get pricing information for your unique company, you need to fill out a form on the Bringg website. 

Last-mile delivery companies: service providers in the US & Canada

Last-mile delivery companies—often called last-mile carriers—provide the crucial final step in getting products from retailers to customers' doorsteps. These service providers solve a major pain point for businesses by handling the complex and often pricey process of local deliveries. By outsourcing to these carriers, you can avoid the challenges of managing an in-house delivery team (even though it may be more expensive).

When choosing a last-mile courier service, consider delivery speed, cost, reliability, and customer service quality. You should also evaluate the tracking and communication technology that last mile delivery solutions use, as well as their ability to handle specific delivery requirements (e.g., temperature-controlled items).

Some retailers choose smaller, local last-mile carriers over large national services like FedEx or USPS because they often provide more personalized service, greater flexibility, and better knowledge of the local area. This can lead to faster, more reliable deliveries, and improved customer satisfaction—especially for businesses with a strong local presence or those requiring specialized handling.

The top 5 last mile carriers in the USA

1. Fedex

FedEx has a lot of shipping options for stores. They offer cheap ground shipping and fast express delivery. FedEx works particularly well with online shops because customers can pick up packages at designated places instead of waiting in for delivery. Watch out for extra fees during busy times—think about how fast you need items delivered versus how much you want to spend.

2. UPS

UPS has a number of different last-mile shipping options, from affordable ground service to fast next-day air delivery. The company has a huge global network as well as automatic tracking so you can see where deliveries are in real time. Interestingly, UPS also offers complete supply chain solutions in a bid to meet the changing needs of retail shipping. This includes local deliveries, worldwide fulfillment, and even financial support for businesses. 

3. USPS

USPS offers affordable shipping for small businesses, with online tools to print labels and access lower rates. They provide on-demand delivery—including same-day and next-day local delivery options—as well as a direct mail service to help target local customers. USPS also offers tools for address checking, tracking, and bulk mailing.

4. Amazon Logistics

Amazon Logistics is Amazon's in-house delivery network, designed to complement and enhance its existing shipping capabilities. It operates as part of Amazon's wider logistics infrastructure and offers several key features that are important for retail businesses, including a delivery service partner program, last-mile delivery, and a huge network of trusted carrier partners.

5. OnTrac

OnTrac, formed by LaserShip's acquisition of OnTrac Logistics, now covers 80% of the U.S. population across 31 states. It mainly focuses on ecommerce deliveries and offers same-day, next-day, and overnight services, acting as an alternative to major carriers. However, do your due diligence, because it’s had its fair share of controversies around package handling and delivery practices in the past. If you’re happy with that, its expanding network and regional expertise put it as a flexible shipping solution for ecommerce brands in Western America.

The top 5 last mile carriers in Canada

1. Canada Post

Canada Post has been around the block. Since 1981, it’s been Canada’s primary postal operator and has a huge menu of services for businesses. With over 6,200 post offices, it can deliver to 16 million addresses—even those in the most remote destinations. It also offers support for various delivery options, including same-day and next-day services, and remains a popular partner for Canadian retailers (though bear in mind delivery times may vary significantly).

2. Purolator

Purolator sends over one million packages around Canada every day. It offers the usual features, like integrated ecommerce solutions, shipping APIs, and delivery tracking services, but it’s also invested in a lot of innovation. It has a new National Hub and has recently added many electric vehicles to its fleet.

3. FedEx Canada

FedEx Canada provides a wide range of shipping services for businesses, including express, ground, and freight options. They have solutions for both local and international shipping, with delivery times ranging from same-day to several days—for example, FedEx Ground delivers packages across Canada in 1 to 7 business days. They also offer tracking services and tools for ecommerce but prices vary quite dramatically based on the type of service and the end address.

4. UPS Canada

UPS Canada has shipping services for both local and international deliveries, including express, expedited, and standard shipping options. For urgent packages, you can use UPS Express Critical, which provides same-day delivery. As well as having a strong network of shippers and fulfillment centers throughout the country, UPS also helps with customs for international shipments.

5. Raven Force

Raven Force Couriers specializes in same-day and scheduled route deliveries in the Greater Vancouver area and Vancouver Island. They offer a range of services including 3PL logistics, ecommerce fulfillment, last-mile delivery, and point-to-point fulfillment solutions.

The company has a flexible menu of scheduling options perfect for businesses with regular shipping needs. If you’re based in Vancouver or have a large customer base there, Raven Force is a great shout for time-sensitive and local deliveries. 

Honorable mentions: Local last-mile carriers in New York City (NYC)

New York City's bustling urban landscape demands efficient and reliable last-mile delivery services. While major carriers dominate the market, several local companies have carved out niches by offering specialized, city-specific solutions. These honorable mentions stand out for their innovative approaches, local expertise, and ability to navigate the unique challenges of NYC's delivery environment.

1. RDS Same Day Delivery. A NY-based courier service with fast and reliable same-day delivery options for legal, finance, and healthcare sectors. 
2. Breakaway Courier Systems. Leading NYC courier company specializing in efficient bike and van deliveries. It leans heavily into eco-friendly transport options. 
3. Fly Over the City Couriers. Tailored last-mile delivery services across New York. It’s well-known for its fast and flexible delivery options that are ideal for busy, urban environments. 
4. Gotham Logistics. Offers last-mile delivery and various logistics services throughout New York, with a particular focus on high-volume and time-sensitive shipments. 
5. Premier Courier Services Inc. A NYC courier known for its dependable and prompt delivery services that cater to both corporate and individual clients.

Honorable mentions: Local last-mile carriers in California

Like New York, California boasts a vast and diverse landscape that presents some unique challenges for last-mile delivery. Major carriers still dominate the market, but you can employ several local companies for specialist services. These honorable mentions have excellent regional experience and the ability to navigate California’s urban and rural environments with ease. 

1. Fidelitone. Provides last-mile delivery and supply chain management services in California with a particular emphasis on home delivery and fulfillment for ecommerce brands. 
2. Gold Rush Express Delivery. A California-based courier service that offers expedited and same-day delivery solutions. It has a strong reputation for being reliable in serving both businesses and individuals. 
3. A-1 Courier Service. Specializes in fast and professional courier services across California—reviews hype up its customer service and wide range of delivery options. 
4. Modern Express | Courier & Logistics. An Oakland-based courier service offering reliable last-mile delivery, logistics, and warehousing solutions in the San Francisco Bay area. 
5. Asteroid Express Courier & Freight Services. Last-mile delivery and freight solutions in Cali, specializing in time-sensitive shipments across the state.

Last-mile delivery companies: The top 5 new innovators

The last-mile delivery industry has grown a huge amount in recent years, mainly due to the rise in online shopping—Statista predicts that global e-commerce sales will hit $6.3 trillion by 2024, up from $3.3 trillion in 2019. 

This growth has not surprisingly caught the attention of tech companies looking to improve last-mile delivery. These companies are using tech like AI, robots, and smart devices to make deliveries cheaper and easier. And, as online shopping continues to rise, so will the last-mile delivery market—which means great opportunities for beady-eyed investors. Many startups are raising billions to create new solutions for city deliveries and better routing.

Here’s our pick of the best.

1. Matternet

Matternet is shaking up the delivery world with its cutting-edge drone technology. Born in Silicon Valley back in 2011, this company has been working hard to make drone deliveries a reality in cities and suburbs. They've created a whole system—from the drones themselves to the stations they use and the software that runs it all.

What's really cool is that their M2 drone has got the thumbs up from the FAA, which is a big deal in the aviation world. Matternet isn't just dreaming big; they're making things happen. They've teamed up with some heavy hitters like UPS and Swiss Post to revolutionize how we deliver medical supplies and online shopping orders. As we speak, Matternet has drones buzzing around in several countries with thousands of successful deliveries under their belt.

2. Starship Technologies

Starship Technologies is changing the delivery landscape one small, autonomous robot at a time. Founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, the company has successfully completed over six million environmentally friendly deliveries worldwide with robots that actually navigate sidewalks. By focusing on innovation and customer experience, Starship is switching up how we think about deliveries, especially in urban areas and college campuses.

3. Zipline

Zipline uses drones to deliver medical stuff to places that are hard to reach. What's really impressive is that they've already made over a million deliveries. They're not just operating in the US either—they've got operations in countries like Rwanda and Ghana too. These little drones are pretty powerful—they can fly up to 100 km round trip and carry packages weighing up to 1.75 kg.

The coolest part? They're literally saving lives. In areas where it's tough to get medical supplies quickly, Zipline's drones are making a huge difference. They're getting blood, vaccines, and other important meds to people who need them fast. Zipline has recently started working with big companies like Walmart to do commercial deliveries too.

4. Nuro

Nuro was started back in 2016 by a couple of guys who used to work on Google's self-driving cars. They wanted to make delivery vehicles that drive themselves, especially for that tricky last bit of the journey to your doorstep.

The neat thing about Nuro's robots is they're built from scratch—no driver's seat, no steering wheel, nothing. They're all electric and just focused on getting your stuff to you. Since its inception, Nuro has teamed up with big names like Kroger, Domino's, and Walmart to try out their delivery bots.

5. Wing (by Alphabet Inc.)

Wing is a subsidiary of Alphabet (Google’s parent company) that delivers packages using drones. To date, they’ve delivered over 350,000 packages—but these aren’t your average drones. They can carry up to five pounds and zip around at 65 mph for up to 12 miles. Wing isn’t doing this on its own, though. The company has teamed up with household names like Walmart and DoorDash to deliver groceries and other stuff you might need in a hurry. 

They're operating in a few countries already, including Australia, the U.S., and Finlan, and have just received some important approvals from regulators. This means they're all set to expand and make drone deliveries a more common thing in cities.

How Circuit for Teams helps courier companies deliver more efficiently

While there are many innovative players in the last-mile delivery space, Circuit for Teams might just be the first system designed specifically for courier companies. Its ease of use, customizability, and best-in-class support make it the go-to solution for optimizing last mile delivery operations.

Here’s how Circuit for Teams can revolutionize your last-mile delivery process:

Synced Dispatcher Dashboard and Driver App: Circuit for Teams makes managing multiple drivers and routes a breeze. The dashboard and app work seamlessly together, ensuring your team is always on the same page.

Boost Efficiency: On average, drivers using Circuit for Teams finish their routes at least an hour earlier. If you had 50 drivers, think about how much time (and money) you could save.

Flexible Proof of Delivery: Circuit allows dispatchers to require proof of delivery for specific stops or pick up points. This flexibility ensures you meet customer expectations without over-complicating the process.

Driver-Led Route Adjustments: Circuit for Teams empowers your drivers to make real-time changes to their routes if they spot a better option—because no one knows the streets better than the people driving them.

Dynamic Customer Notifications: Keep your customers informed with automatic updates on the status of their package and the estimated delivery time window.

Advanced Analytics: Identify inefficiencies and improve operations with our 20+ analytics reports, breaking down performance by driver, route, and more.

If you're looking to optimize your last-mile delivery operation and boost your bottom line, Circuit for Teams is the software for you. Try our 7-day free trial and show other dispatchers how its done.

Last mile delivery companies: FAQs

What is a last mile delivery company?

A last mile delivery company (also known as final mile delivery) focuses on getting packages from a distribution center or hub right to the customer's doorstep, whether it's a home or a business. This final leg of the delivery journey is crucial and can be the most difficult and costly part of the shipping process. To make deliveries efficiently, these companies use a variety of vehicles, including vans, trucks, and even bicycles, especially in busy urban areas. They often rely on technology to optimize routes and provide real-time tracking, ensuring packages arrive on time.

How do I start my own last mile delivery company?

Starting a last mile delivery company takes some planning. First, you'll want to scope out your area and figure out who might need your services. Then, get your ducks in a row with a solid business plan, the right paperwork, and insurance. You'll need some wheels too, so invest in reliable vehicles.

Next, get yourself a good system to manage all the logistics and start making friends with local businesses and ecommerce folks—they could be your bread and butter. When it comes to hiring, look for drivers who know their way around and can keep customers happy.

Don't bite off more than you can chew at first. Start small and grow as you get the hang of things.

Are last mile delivery companies profitable?

Yes, last-mile delivery companies can be profitable, but it's not a guaranteed cash cow. The ecommerce boom has definitely created more opportunities, but here's the catch: running these operations can cost a pretty penny, and you've got a ton of competition nipping at your heels.

Plus, customer expectations are higher than they’ve ever been. Consumers want their stuff delivered yesterday, and they don't want to pay a dime for it, which can really eat into your profits. The companies that are killing it in this game are the ones using powerful tech to plan the best routes and automate whatever they can. Some are getting creative by offering unique services, focusing on specific types of deliveries, or teaming up with big retailers.

Bottom line? There's money to be made, but you've got to be on your toes, ready to adapt to whatever the market throws at you.

Why is last-mile delivery so expensive?

There are a few reasons why last-mile delivery can be hard on the wallet. For starters, it’s labor-intensive. Drivers often make multiple stops and handle each package individually. Different areas provide different challenges, too. In cities, drivers are battling bad traffic and hunting for non-existent parking spots, while rural last-mile delivery involves driving long distances just to drop-off one package. 

Using smaller vehicles and needing to change routes often drives up costs for delivery companies. Customers want their packages quickly and at certain times, which also raises expenses. Plus, when deliveries fail or items are returned, it adds even more to the costs. All these reasons combined make last-mile delivery the priciest part of shipping, usually taking up more than half of the total shipping costs.