Parcel delivery provider DPD UK has partnered with addressing technology company what3words to provide customers with the option of using its alternative 3 x 3m addressing system.
what3words has divided the entire world into 3 x 3m squares and given each square a unique combination of three words, making it easy to navigate to precise locations. For example, ///bands.villa.swung will take you to a precise 3m square on Primrose Hill in London, UK.
From February 25, parcel customers can add their what3words address in the delivery preferences section of the DPD app. Customers unfamiliar with the system will be able to discover and save their exact drop-off what3words address using the map and grid overlay in their DPD app profile.
According to what3words, addresses are not always accurate as postcodes (ZIP) often cover broad areas and access to some buildings may not always be clear. It can also take up to six months for the address of a newly built property to be registered. Poor and inaccurate addressing can also add difficulties for couriers.
Elaine Kerr, CEO of DPD UK, commented, “Our drivers do an amazing job delivering the vast majority of parcels to the correct address, first time, often going above and beyond to work out where harder to find locations are. We use the best technology available to make their job easier, and what3words is an incredibly smart solution. In addition to helping us deliver to new housing estates and remote cottages, there are significant gains from more effective fleet routing and reducing unnecessary mileage. As a UK leader in smart, green delivery, this is a very welcome addition to our award-winning service.”
Chris Sheldrick, CEO and co-founder of what3words, added, “DPD is one of the UK’s favorite parcel delivery networks – and allowing its customers to use what3words to specify locations will transform everyday deliveries. Our technology gives both customers and DPD drivers the confidence that deliveries will be made precisely, easily, and more efficiently, using just three words.”