The need for technological innovations is essential in today’s fast-paced business
environment. Technological innovations ensure faster global shipping and streamline business
operations. By eliminating intermediaries, a logistics app improves transparency. Developing
a logistics app helps you meet the specific needs of your business. The logistics app
development market and grow to $25.1B by 2028.
Are you thinking about creating an app for your company? Before investing in a logistics
app, one needs to understand all the financial aspects of the app. Let's explore everything
you need to know in this blog before deciding.
What is a logistics app?
The logistics app is software that aids companies in tracking shipments in real time.
Streamlining supply chain processes to this app helps cut costs and save time. With a few
clicks on your smart device, logistic apps enhance customer service. A logistics app is a
one-stop shop for all logistics needs. Logistic apps send updates to customers and assist
with delivery times. These apps develop enhanced communication between the seller and the
customer.
App Development Landscape
The cost of development depends on the approach adopted for app development. Before
developing a logistics app, it is necessary to understand these approaches.
Native App Development
Native apps are applications for specific platforms like Android, iOS , and Windows. Native
apps use platform-native programming languages and frameworks. This allows the logistics app
to take full advantage of the features of the native platform. Native apps are faster and
more responsive. Despite the cost and time involved in development, they are reliable and
functional. .
Cross-Platform Development
Cross Platform apps can function on different operating systems using a single codebase. It
helps businesses develop a suite of apps at the cost of a single app and reach a wider
audience. Cross-platform applications save time and cost. As they function on a single
codebase they have limited features. These are low-performing as they translate code to the
native platform code.
Web App Development
Web apps can run on web servers and are accessible through web browsers. A basic web app is
affordable but the cost increases with customisation and features. Since it is accessible
from any browser, they are accessible and scalable.
Types of Logistics Apps
Here are the different Logistics apps that can help your business. Before we break down the
costs, let us explore the apps that drive the logistics industry.
Mobile Fleet Management App
Fleet Management App is a software solution for all monitoring and maintenance services.
These apps provide real-time information about the vehicles, maintenance history, and fuel
consumption. Fleet management apps improve efficiency by automating tasks. These apps reduce
operational costs and help make better decisions about the fleet.
Route Optimization App
Route Optimization apps help businesses plan and optimize their delivery routes. By
considering delivery time, locations, and traffic conditions it reduces delivery time. This
app improves customer satisfaction by providing real-time tracking and accurate delivery
time. These apps help drivers reduce fuel consumption and ground coverage.
Warehouse Management App
A Warehouse Management App optimizes and streamlines various warehouse operations. This app
offers tools to manage inventory, track stock movement, and help reduce costs. These apps
reduce human errors and help warehouse staff with updated information.
Tracking and Monitoring App
The tracking and monitoring app provides insights into real-time shipping information. These
apps improve efficiency by reducing human intervention and identifying potential problems.
This app offers a clear report of shipping expenses and distribution services.
On-Demand Delivery App
An On-Demand Delivery App is an application for the delivery of goods on demand. These apps
usually deliver food, groceries, rides, and other items featuring local businesses. These
apps improve convenience for customers to get goods delivered without stepping out.
Features of a logistic app
The features of the app impact the cost of development. The more complex and time-consuming
the app is, the more the development cost. The functionality, integrations, and user
interface determine the costs. Here are some of the features of a logistics app that will
help you make decisions.
GPS Tracking
GPS has become an essential tool for businesses and individuals. GPS tracking provides
real-time location and the estimated time of delivery to customers. Logistics apps help
businesses track the movement of goods anywhere in the world.
Real-Time Notifications
Customers and companies need real-time information and the status of delivery. To track the
activities, customers receive details of the driver and ETA. This feature also provides
emergency alerts and customer availability status.
Route Planning
This feature in logistics apps promotes drivers’ productivity. This app improves efficiency
by providing route maps considering the traffic conditions. This feature offers a
satellite-based solution that reduces time while improving customer satisfaction.
Fare Calculator
Fare calculator features help with budgeting and estimating the cost of a shipment. This tool
considers the weight of the goods, distance, and vehicle selected. This feature allows
transparent communication with customers before choosing the service.
Order Management
The order management features help customers schedule and manage their bookings. Customers
can choose the delivery time and location of delivery. This feature also allows businesses
to pick, pack, and transport. By automating these processes, companies can reduce human
errors.
Payment Integration
This feature helps drivers receive payment during delivery, promoting cashless payments. This
integration protects both parties from fraudulents. Integrating debit cards, credit cards,
and e-wallet options helps companies improve convenience.
What Determines the Cost of Logistics App Development?
Beyond the development approach and type, other factors contribute to the development cost.
Features and Functionality
The complexity of features and functionality has an impact on the development cost. Choose
essential features that best suit the business objectives and reduce the cost.
Platform Compatibility
Developing an app for many devices adds to the cost of development. As the code is reusable
across the platforms a cross-platform app is affordable.
UI/ UX Designs
Custom animations, graphics, and interaction contribute to the development cost. Customised
user interfaces and high-quality assets increase the complexity and time.
Third-Party Integrations
Third-party integrations are more complex and time-consuming. Features like payment gateways,
geolocations and route planning can be expensive. The security maintenance to avoid threats
is an added cost.
Security Compliance
The cost of security tools, audits, and assessments can be expensive. The choice of
compliance framework helps reduce costs in the long run.
How Much Does Logistics App Development Cost?
Considering factors like complexity, platform, and type of the app the cost varies. The
expertise and location of the development and designing team, development cost varies.
A simple logistics app with basic features starts at $10,000. Depending on the complexity of
features and user interface, the cost goes as high as $50,000.
- The cost of a Transportation Management app ranges from $20,000 to $100,000.
- The cost of a Freight Brokerage app ranges from $20,000 to $50,000.
- The cost of the Warehouse Management app ranges from $10,000 to $70,000.
- The cost of a Fleet Management app ranges from $25,000 to $100,000
- The cost of an On-Demand app ranges from $10,000 to $85,000.
Conclusion
A logistics app is an added asset to any supply chain business. A well-designed app improves efficiency by streamlining business operations and user experience.
It is advisable to hire an app development company . App development companies provide a wide range of services that you can benefit from. From consultation to app maintenance, they understand all your business needs. Hire a team that complements your business objectives and budget.