What does the "last mile" refer to in logistics?

The "last mile" refers specifically to the final step of the delivery process when a product is delivered to the customer. This stage is crucial in logistics as it involves the transportation of goods from a distribution center or a transportation hub to the final destination, typically the customer's doorstep. The last mile is often seen as the most complex and costly part of the logistics chain because it involves various challenges such as traffic, route optimization, and coordination with customers for delivery timing. Ensuring efficiency in the last mile is vital for customer satisfaction, as it directly impacts the consumer's experience with the product and the overall service provided by the logistics company. Understanding this concept helps logistics professionals focus on improving delivery speed and reliability, which are key factors in enhancing customer loyalty.