GFS simplifies last mile delivery through multi-carrier management, unified technology and pro-active operations – giving retailers end-to-end control, resilience and visibility across domestic and international networks.
The last mile is the most visible, most complex and most expensive stage of the eCommerce delivery journey. It is the moment your brand promise is either kept or broken. Shoppers expect fast, flexible and reliable delivery as standard – and they remember when it goes wrong. For retailers managing growing order volumes across multiple carriers and sales channels, last mile delivery operations can quickly become a source of cost, complexity and customer complaints. GFS exists to solve that problem. As the UK’s leading multi-carrier delivery services partner, we give retailers access to 1,000+ delivery services across 220+ destinations through a single integration, a single relationship and a single invoice.
What Is Last Mile Delivery?
Last mile delivery – also referred to as final mile delivery – is the final leg of the last mile logistics chain, from the local distribution hub or sortation centre to the customer’s door. It is the most expensive segment of the supply chain, typically accounting for over 50% of total shipping costs, and the most operationally challenging due to variables such as failed deliveries, address accuracy, time-window expectations and urban congestion.
For eCommerce retailers, the last mile is also the only part of the delivery process the customer directly experiences. A late, damaged or missed delivery does not reflect on the carrier – it reflects on the brand. That is why getting last mile delivery right is not just a logistics challenge; it is a customer retention strategy.
How GFS Last Mile Delivery Works
GFS is not a carrier. GFS is a managed multi-carrier delivery partner that sits between the retailer and the carrier network, providing the carrier management, technology, operational expertise and commercial leverage to make last mile delivery simpler, cheaper and more reliable.
Last Mile Returns Made Effortless
The last mile does not end at the doorstep. Returns are part of the delivery experience and a major factor in customer satisfaction and repeat purchase behaviour. GFS’ returns management service provides a fully branded, self-service returns experience with multiple drop-off options – including postal returns and out-of-home delivery collection points. GFS Global Returns Pro supports 35+ languages and gives customers a frictionless way to send items back.
International Last Mile Delivery
GFS manages international last mile delivery with the same visibility and control as domestic shipments. This includes managed customs documentation, DDP and DAP shipping options, independently monitored transit times and competitive international pricing with no hidden fuel or remote surcharges. Retailers selling internationally can offer the same quality of sustainable shipping and delivery experience to customers in Europe, North America and beyond as they do in the UK.
Why Retailers Choose GFS for Last Mile Delivery
One integration, total coverage:
1,000+ delivery services across 220+ destinations through a single technical connection. No multiple carrier contracts, no multiple invoices, no multiple integrations.
Commercial leverage
GFS is one of the UK’s largest carriage buyers. Retailers benefit from volume-driven pricing access and the flexibility to route parcels based on cost, speed or destination – optimising every shipment automatically.
Proven resilience
Carrier diversification means disruptions at one carrier do not cascade into service failures. GFS reroutes parcel flows in real time to maintain delivery performance.
End-to-end visibility
From label generation to proof of delivery, every parcel is tracked across every carrier through a single dashboard.
Human expertise
Technology alone does not solve delivery problems. The GFS operations and customer care teams are an extension of your business, pro-actively managing your last mile delivery so you do not have to.
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“GFS has helped us achieve our goal to deliver a relevant and consistent delivery experience to every customer, every time.”
Mamas & Papas
“This setup has not only boosted our customer service experience, but also improved our planning and forecasting during peak times without the limitation of capping order volumes. The partnership with GFS has been invaluable in maintaining high customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.”
Cambium
“Working with GFS has transformed how we handle deliveries. Their flexible, multi-carrier services have made it easier for us to keep up with growing demand while maintaining smooth operations — even with our tricky sized products! The GFS team is always there when we need them, helping us stay ahead of the game.”
Laura James
“Partnering with GFS has transformed our logistics. With their multi-carrier sophistication, we’ve introduced weekend deliveries and gained the flexibility to switch carriers effortlessly. GFS simplifies everything with their efficiency through one contact, one relationship, one invoice, and one integration. Plus, they opened up new horizons with smooth international shipping options. Even onboarding just before Black Friday, we sailed through peak deliveries without a hitch. GFS’ reliability and efficiency have been game-changing for us!”
Mahabis
“Sales volume forecasting is almost impossible for us, but with the flexibility of GFS’ solution, we can satisfy demand even during our busiest periods.”
Hampers.com
“GFS really saved the day when we were really finding our feet as a new business.”
SLA the Label.