Last-mile delivery takes an order from your business or pickup point to its recipient. Each stop needs its own address, access instructions and available receiver. For a small business, planning these details matters as much as choosing a vehicle. Delivery proof closes the process.
In 30 seconds
- It's the final leg: from your business to the recipient's door.
- It's the part your customer sees and the most expensive per package.
- A good service gives a photo, the recipient's name and someone who answers.
The AMVO Online Sales Study 2026 reports home delivery preference at 90%. Confirm the home address, access requirements and who can receive before sending an order.
Where does the name “last mile” come from?
The last mile is the final stage between a pickup point and the recipient. Earlier stages move goods from suppliers or between warehouses and cities. The name describes a stage, rather than a fixed distance. In Mexico City, that final trip can cross several neighborhoods.
| Leg | From where to where | Example for a local business |
|---|---|---|
| First mile | From the supplier to your business or warehouse | Your flower supplier drops off stock in the morning |
| Middle mile | Between warehouses, branches or cities | You move products from your workshop to your store |
| Last mile | From your business to your customer's door | The arrangement reaches an apartment in Polanco |
Why is the last mile the hardest part?
The last mile involves a separate address, recipient and access process for every order. Traffic, parking, guard booths and reception desks add planning requirements in Mexico City. Missing details can interrupt the route. Confirming contacts and access rules before departure helps the driver complete each handover.
- Many small stops: ten deliveries means ten different entrances, not one trip.
- Someone has to receive it: if nobody's there, the delivery fails or gets rescheduled.
- Controlled access: guard booths, reception desks and supplier hours take time.
- It's what your customer sees: if the order arrives late or damaged, they blame you, not the courier.
What last-mile options does a small business have?
A small business can deliver itself, hire a driver, use parcel carriers, request app trips or book dedicated blocks. Each option fits different order volumes and handling requirements. Compare coverage, timing, delivery proof and total cost. The table below explains how these choices differ in practice.
| Option | Works well for | Its weak spot |
|---|---|---|
| Delivering yourself | Very few, nearby deliveries | Takes hours away from selling and serving customers |
| Your own driver and vehicle | High volume every day | Fixed payroll, insurance and maintenance |
| Traditional parcel carrier | Shipping to other cities, no rush | Days in transit, no set time or personal service |
| On-demand delivery apps | One urgent, one-off package | A different courier every time, little control |
| Dedicated service by the block | Several deliveries on the same day, delicate products | You need to book in advance |
What should a good last-mile service include?
A useful last-mile service confirms the price and tells you when the order leaves. It also provides a delivery photo and the receiver's name. Ask who will respond if access or timing changes during the route. Check that the vehicle and handling suit your products.
- A price agreed before leaving, with no surprise charges.
- A message when it leaves so you and your customer know it's on the way.
- Proof of delivery: a photo and the name of who received it.
- A contact who answers if the customer isn't home or the address changes.
- An enclosed vehicle so the product doesn't travel exposed.
Quick last-mile glossary
The key terms describe timing, proof and how deliveries are grouped. A delivery window sets expectations for arrival, while proof records the handover. A dedicated block reserves time for your business. Understanding these terms helps you compare quotes and explain the service clearly to customers.
| Proof of delivery | Evidence that the order arrived: a photo, name or signature of who received it. |
|---|---|
| Delivery window | The range of hours for the delivery, for example “morning” or “afternoon”. |
| Failed delivery | An attempt where nobody received it or access wasn't possible; it means a second trip. |
| Dedicated block | Time in which a vehicle and driver work for a single business. |
| Route delivery | A delivery added to a route with orders from several businesses. |
Frequently asked questions
Book a dedicated block one day ahead, or request the afternoon route before noon, subject to space. Blocks run Monday to Saturday in morning and afternoon slots. For same-day requests, check availability on WhatsApp. Confirm your areas, order count and date when booking. The answers below cover other details to check before dispatch.
How far in advance should I book a delivery?
Book a dedicated block one day ahead. For same-day requests, check availability on WhatsApp. Blocks run Monday to Saturday, from 8:30 am to noon or 1:00 to 4:30 pm. For the afternoon route, request delivery before noon, subject to space.
What is the last mile in logistics?
The last mile is the final leg of a shipment: from the business or warehouse to the end customer's door. It's the most expensive leg per package and the one that most shapes the customer's opinion.
Is SIVA Logistics a last-mile delivery company?
Yes. SIVA Logistics serves Interlomas, Santa Fe, Lomas de Chapultepec and Polanco. Choose a 3.5-hour dedicated block or route delivery. Both include a photo of every delivery.
Does the last mile include pickup?
Usually, yes: the service picks up at your business and delivers to each address. SIVA picks up at your business if it's within our four areas.
Your last mile, with someone who answers
A 3.5-hour block, an assigned driver and a photo of every delivery. If we're late to the start of your block, that time is free.