Planning a delivery route with multiple stops can feel like solving a giant puzzle. Whether you’re delivering packages for work or dropping off homemade cookies to friends and family, making sure you take the best route saves time, gas, and energy.
The first step is to list all your stops clearly. Writing them down or adding them to a spreadsheet helps you avoid forgetting any address. Once you know where you’re going, the next smart move is to sort the addresses by location. Grouping nearby stops together will shorten your travel time and help you stay organized.
Using an online tool or app can really make this easier. Tools like Google Maps let you add several stops, though there’s a limit to how many you can enter. For more stops and better planning features, there are websites like https://routecanal.com that are made to handle longer routes and even suggest the most efficient path.
If you're someone who makes the same deliveries regularly, look for a tool that lets you save your routes. This can be really helpful and keeps your future planning simple. Many of these apps also give updates on traffic and road closures, which helps you avoid delays.
Another tip is to label each stop with notes. For example, if a customer prefers you to use the side entrance or has a dog in the yard, writing that down next to the address saves time and makes the stop smoother.
Try to plan your route during less busy times of the day, if possible. Early mornings or mid-afternoons often have lighter traffic compared to rush hours. Also, always check the weather before leaving—it can make a big difference in how long your deliveries take.
Lastly, remember to keep your phone or GPS charged and bring a paper copy of addresses just in case. Charging cables, a water bottle, and some snacks can also make your delivery run more comfortable.
By staying organized and using the right tools, handling multiple delivery stops gets much easier. You’ll save time, avoid stress, and maybe even find a new favorite shortcut on your route.