How does on-demand dispatch differ from traditional batch dispatch?

Batch dispatch plans all stops at once, typically in the morning, locks routes, and offers limited flexibility for changes. On-demand dispatch continuously accepts new jobs and dynamically re-optimizes active routes to accommodate additions without rebuilding the entire plan from scratch.

How do I add new stops to a driver's route mid-day?

Using dispatch software with dynamic re-optimization, you enter the new stop into the system. The software evaluates the best insertion point based on driver location, time windows, traffic conditions, and remaining stops. It then pushes the updated route directly to the driver's mobile app with adjusted navigation.

What features should on-demand dispatch software include?

Essential features include dynamic route re-optimization, real-time GPS tracking, a driver mobile app with push updates, automated customer notifications, proof of delivery capture, and capacity-aware job assignment. Integration with your CRM or order management system is also important for centralizing job intake.

How do you prevent new job additions from delaying existing deliveries?

Use time-window-aware optimization that protects committed ETAs before inserting new stops. Set capacity thresholds per driver and configure alerts that notify dispatchers when an insertion would breach an existing delivery window. Pre-planned commitments should take priority unless explicitly overridden.

Is on-demand dispatch only for large fleets?

No. Businesses with as few as three to five drivers benefit from on-demand dispatch software. The efficiency gains in reduced planning time, higher fleet utilization, and faster response times scale proportionally regardless of fleet size. Smaller fleets often see the largest relative improvement because each driver's time is more valuable.