How what3words is transforming ecommerce deliveries with accurate addressing

The world of ecommerce thrives on convenience and efficiency. However, one of its biggest challenges is accurate delivery. Traditional address systems often fall short, especially in remote or densely populated urban areas. This is where what3words in ecommerce is making a significant difference. By offering a precise geolocation system, it ensures every delivery reaches the correct spot, eliminating confusion and inefficiencies.

In this blog, we explore how what3words is transforming the ecommerce landscape, its technical foundation, and why it’s a game-changer for logistics.

What is what3words?

what3words is an innovative geolocation system that divides the entire world into 3x3 meter squares. Each square is assigned a unique combination of three words, like ///blue.apple.tree. This makes it simple for users to share their exact location without relying on complex GPS coordinates. The system is accessible through a mobile app, web browser, or API integration, making it versatile for both consumers and businesses.

Unlike traditional addressing systems, what3words eliminates ambiguities. For example, if two streets have similar names or addresses lack detailed labeling, the three-word system provides pinpoint accuracy.

The challenge of addressing in ecommerce

Ecommerce businesses handle millions of orders daily. Yet, addressing errors account for a significant percentage of failed deliveries. These errors lead to delays, increased costs, and customer dissatisfaction. The main issues include:

1. Ambiguous addresses: Many addresses are incomplete or vague, making them hard to locate.
2. Remote locations: Rural areas often lack formal address systems, creating logistical hurdles.
3. Duplicate addresses: Urban areas with similar or identical street names often confuse delivery personnel.
4. Apartment complexes and large venues: Pinpointing the correct entrance or floor is often challenging.

These challenges highlight the urgent need for a more precise addressing system. what3words bridges this gap by providing unambiguous and easy-to-share location details.

How what3words is revolutionizing ecommerce deliveries

1. Pinpoint accuracy for last-mile delivery: Last-mile delivery is the most critical part of the logistics chain. It accounts for over 50% of delivery costs and is where most errors occur. what3words in ecommerce ensures accurate delivery to specific 3x3 meter locations. This is especially beneficial for:

• Delivering to rural or remote locations.
• Pinpointing exact drop-off points in crowded areas.
• Avoiding confusion in complex venues like malls or industrial parks.

For instance, a delivery to an office complex can specify ///desk.chair.window to direct the courier to the exact door instead of a general address.

2. Reducing failed deliveries and costs: Failed deliveries are costly for ecommerce businesses. When couriers cannot locate an address, it often results in redelivery attempts or refunds. what3words minimizes such errors by removing ambiguities in addresses.

• Companies like DHL and Hermes have already reported significant cost savings using what3words.
• Reducing failed deliveries also reduces fuel consumption, contributing to environmental sustainability.

3. Enhancing customer experience: Customers demand smooth and efficient delivery experiences. By using what3words, customers can provide precise delivery locations without lengthy explanations. For example:

• Grocery deliveries can arrive directly at the kitchen entrance.
• Furniture deliveries can specify the exact door for large complexes.

The ease of sharing three-word addresses improves customer satisfaction and loyalty, giving ecommerce companies a competitive edge.

4. Integration with technology and logistics: what3words is easy to integrate into existing ecommerce platforms and logistics systems. The API allows businesses to embed the technology into checkout processes, mapping systems, and courier apps. Some technical highlights include:

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works with mobile apps, web apps, and desktop systems.
• Offline Functionality: Ensures usability in areas without internet access.
• Language Support: Supports multiple languages, making it suitable for global operations.

Companies like Domino’s Pizza and Mercedes-Benz have already integrated what3words into their systems to enhance operational efficiency.

5. Improving accessibility for everyone: what3words promotes inclusivity by making addressing accessible to all, regardless of their location or literacy level. Traditional addresses often exclude underserved communities, but the simple three-word system overcomes this. People in informal settlements, refugee camps, or rural areas can now receive deliveries easily.

This inclusivity aligns with global goals to improve equitable access to services.

Technical advantages of what3words

1. Compact and precise: Each what3words address uses only three simple words, making it easy to share, remember, and use. Unlike GPS coordinates, which are long and complex, what3words simplifies geolocation while maintaining precision.

2. Error detection: The system is designed to detect typos or incorrect word combinations. For example, if a user accidentally enters ///apple.orange.beer instead of ///apple.orange.bear, the system will flag the error. This reduces the chances of delivering to the wrong location.

3. Seamless API integration: The what3words API is developer-friendly, with support for various programming languages. It provides seamless integration into mapping software, mobile apps, and ecommerce platforms.

4. Scalable for global use: what3words covers the entire globe, ensuring scalability for businesses operating internationally. Whether delivering to a bustling city or a remote island, the system ensures consistent accuracy.

Why ecommerce must embrace what3words

1. Rising demand for hyperlocal deliveries: With the growth of same-day and one-hour delivery services, precise addressing is more critical than ever. what3words enables hyperlocal deliveries by directing couriers to exact drop-off points, saving time and resources.

2. Customer-centric trends: Modern customers value convenience and personalization. Providing a what3words field at checkout enhances user experience and builds trust.

3. Future-ready logistics: As ecommerce expands into new markets, including underdeveloped regions, traditional addressing systems will not suffice. what3words equips businesses to handle such challenges seamlessly.

Examples of ecommerce companies using what3words

1. DHL and Hermes: Reduced delivery times and costs in rural areas.
2. Domino’s Pizza: Ensures pizzas reach customers hot and fresh, even in hard-to-find locations.
3. Carmaker Integrations: Companies like Mercedes-Benz use what3words in their navigation systems, aiding delivery drivers.

How to implement what3words in ecommerce

1. Checkout integration: Add a field for what3words addresses during checkout. Encourage customers to use it by educating them on its benefits.

2. Training for delivery staff: Train couriers to use the what3words app for navigation. This reduces reliance on traditional maps.

3. Collaboration with logistics partners: Work with logistics companies that already support what3words. This simplifies the implementation process.

4. Promote awareness among customers: Run awareness campaigns to educate customers on the benefits of what3words. Include tutorials or FAQs on your website.

Inclusive language and accessibility

Using inclusive language in communication ensures everyone feels valued. what3words inherently supports inclusivity by enabling access for underserved communities. By embracing this technology, ecommerce companies promote equitable service for all.

Conclusion

what3words is not just an addressing system—it’s a revolution in how ecommerce deliveries are managed. Its precision, simplicity, and accessibility make it a perfect fit for the challenges of last-mile delivery. By integrating what3words in ecommerce, businesses can reduce costs, enhance customer satisfaction, and future-proof their operations.

As the demand for hyperlocal delivery grows, embracing what3words is no longer optional—it’s essential. Are you ready to take your ecommerce business to the next level with accurate addressing?

Image Courtesy: ACCENTERRA

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