DHL brings real-time parcel tracking to Africa

According to Hennie Heymans, the CEO of DHL Express Sub Saharan Africa, the rise of mobile commerce on the African continent has allowed DHL to introduce real-time parcel tracking, using mobile scanners.

Motorola TC55 scanner units have been introduced in 26 sub-Saharan countries, each equipped with touchscreens, GPS navigation and other location services. This enables customers to track their parcels along the delivery chain, and to sign on the device as electronic proof of delivery.

DHL also hopes to increase the speed of processing and delivery by more closely monitoring each consignment, which will also help them to improve their customer service.

More than 60% of people in sub-Saharan Africa now have access to a mobile phone, according to Heymans. This may partly be due to the fact that Africa has one of the world’s fastest growing middle classes.

(Source: Post & Parcel)