Mobile -based Logistics System

Abstract

Nowadays, the parcel delivery or courier services are dominated by several international courier companies. Small local logistics companies can hardly compete with these competitors in terms of resources and the system capabilities in which some dedicated devices are required to provide the service. Using GPS to track vehicles and update the order status in real-time were costly as the equipment was not massively produced before 2007. In order to provide alternatives to the current options and utilise the features of smart phones, new solutions can be developed to bring changes. Regarding the lack of affordable advanced system in the market, this project aims to provide an inexpensive solution for small local delivery companies or small and medium enterprises to develop their own logistics system. The deliverables of the project, HML, include a web interface and an Android application. The app particularly targets to utilise the features of camera, GPS and integration with other APIs to enrich the user experience and functionalities on mobile devices. The web interface allows clients and staff members to access most of the features in the system online. Registered users can place an order, track applied order online. Staff members can perform several management and monitoring tasks in the system. Drivers’ locations, order details and a master map are available for staff users to monitor the service status. An underlying algorithm on the server is responsible to dispatch the selected orders to driver. The algorithm aims to dispatch the order to the most suitable driver that minimize the extra time on the delivery schedule. An Android application is built for the client to track the applied orders. Drivers are the target users of the application. The features built on the application include check-in and check-out order, update current location to database and requesting for the optimal driving route to collect or deliver orders. The combination of web interface and Android application provides both comprehensive functionalities, innovation and mobility to the users. Individuals or small and medium-sized enterprises may gain benefits on this system.