Logistics App Development Cost: Everything You Need to Know

• By Andrew Holland
• 15-05-2023
• Mobile App Development

Logistics has been a vital industry that has undergone numerous advancements over the years. The introduction of technology has revolutionized this industry, improving its operations and overall efficiency. One of the technological advancements that have transformed logistics is the development of logistics apps. These apps have helped logistics companies streamline their operations and improve their efficiency. Studies suggest that the global logistics market is expected to grow up to $13.4 billion by 2027. This showcases the growth potential of this domain. However, one of the primary concerns for businesses looking at “How much does it cost to make an app” for a logistics company. You need to hire a trusted agency offering mobile app development services, who can disclose the actual cost of the project. In this blog, we will talk about the logistics application and the cost of its development.

What is a Logistics App?

A logistics app is a mobile or web-based software application designed to streamline and optimize various aspects of logistics operations, such as transportation, inventory management, warehouse management, and supply chain management. These apps are often used by logistics companies, retailers, and other businesses involved in the transportation and distribution of goods. A logistics app development company will help you build a dynamic app to help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity. Some examples of logistics apps include EasyStock, Shiprocket, and OmniFocus.

Why Do You Need an App for Your Logistics Business

Logistics is a complex and highly competitive industry that requires efficient and effective management to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction. With the increasing demands of customers for fast, accurate and reliable delivery of goods, logistics companies need to constantly innovate and adapt to remain competitive. One way to achieve this is through the use of a logistics app. In this article, we will explore why a logistics business needs an app and how it can benefit them.

Improved efficiency and productivity

One of the primary benefits of a logistics app is improved efficiency and productivity. A logistics app can automate many of the manual processes involved in logistics, such as order tracking, inventory management, and route planning. This automation can help reduce errors, save time, and increase productivity. For example, an app can provide real-time tracking of shipments, enabling logistics companies to quickly identify and address any issues that may arise.

Enhanced customer service

Another benefit of a logistics app is improved customer service. With an app, customers can track their shipments in real-time, receive notifications about delivery times, and communicate with logistics companies. This can help improve customer satisfaction by providing them with more control over the delivery process and greater transparency.

Cost savings

A logistics app can also help logistics companies save costs. By automating many of the manual processes involved in logistics, companies can reduce the need for manual labor, thereby reducing costs. Additionally, an app can help optimize delivery routes, reducing the distance traveled and fuel costs.

Improved data management and analysis

Logistics is a data-driven industry, and an app can help logistics companies manage and analyze their data more effectively. By collecting data from various sources, such as orders, shipments, and inventory, an app can help companies make better-informed decisions about their operations. For example, an app can provide insights into inventory levels, enabling logistics companies to optimize their inventory management.

Competitive advantage

Finally, a logistics app can provide a competitive advantage. With the increasing demands of customers for faster and more reliable delivery, logistics companies that adopt new technologies such as an app can differentiate themselves from their competitors. This can help attract and retain customers, increase revenue, and grow the business.

Logistics App Development Process That Affecting The Cost

1. Logistics App planning

The first stage in logistics app development is the planning stage. This stage involves defining the app's requirements, researching the market, and creating a project plan.

2. Logistics App design

The next stage in logistics app development is the design stage. This stage involves creating wireframes, designing the user interface, and creating a prototype.

3. Logistics App Development

The app development stage involves the actual coding and creation of the app. The actual cost of app development can vary based on the app's complexity.

4. Logistics App testing

The app testing stage involves testing the app's functionality and fixing any bugs. The cost of app testing can vary depending on the number of tests performed by the mobile app development company.

5. Logistics App launch

The app launch stage involves releasing the app to the public. The cost of app launch will be determined by the launch strategy and mode used by the development team.

6. Ongoing Maintenance and Support

After the app is launched, it requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it continues to function correctly. This cost of post-launch support will be based on the maintenance services offered by the mobile app development company.

How to Calculate the Logistics App Development Cost?

Developing a logistics app can be a complex process that requires careful planning, development, and testing. The cost of developing a logistics app can vary depending on various factors, such as the features, functionality, and complexity of the app. In this article, we will explore the different factors that impact the logistics app development cost and how to calculate it.

App platform and technology

The cost of logistics app development can vary depending on the platform and technology used to develop the app. For example, developing an app for both iOS and Android platforms will require more development time and effort than developing an app for a single platform. The cost of development will also vary depending on the technology stack used to develop the app.

App design and user experience

The design and user experience of the app are important factors that impact the logistics app development cost. A well-designed and user-friendly app requires more time and effort to develop than a simple and basic app. The cost of development will also depend on the level of customization required for the app design and user experience.

App features and functionality

The features and functionality of the app are also important factors that impact the logistics app development cost. A basic app with limited features will cost less to develop than an app with advanced features such as real-time tracking, push notifications, and advanced analytics. The complexity of the features and functionality will also impact the cost of development.

Integration with third-party services

A logistics app may require integration with third-party services such as payment gateways, shipping carriers, and inventory management systems. The cost of development will depend on the complexity of the integration and the number of third-party services that need to be integrated.

Testing and quality assurance

Testing and quality assurance are important aspects of logistics app development. The cost of development will depend on the level of testing and quality assurance required for the app. The cost will also depend on the testing tools and technologies used to ensure the app meets the desired quality standards.

Project management and development team

The logistics app development cost will also depend on the project management and development team involved in the development process. The cost will depend on the size and experience of the development team, the location of the development team, and the project management tools and technologies used.

To calculate the logistics app development cost, you can follow these steps:

• Define the scope of the project and the features and functionality required for the app.
• Determine the platform and technology stack required for the app.
• Define the app design and user experience requirements.
• Determine the third-party services that need to be integrated into the app.
• Define the level of testing and quality assurance required for the app.
• Determine the project management and development team requirements.
• Estimate the development time and effort required for each phase of the development process.
• Calculate the development cost based on the development time and effort estimates.

5 Must-Have Cost Effective Features of a Logistics Application

A good logistics app should have certain essential features to ensure that it meets the needs of its customers. In this article, we'll discuss some of the must-have features of a logistics app. These features will help you answer the question of how much it cost to make an app.

Real-Time Tracking

Real-time tracking is one of the most crucial features in a logistics app. With this feature, the companies can track their shipments in real-time, allowing them to stay updated on the status of their deliveries. It also enables companies to monitor the location of their vehicles, which helps with route optimization and dispatching. It is beneficial to customers as well, as it allows them to track their orders and know exactly when to expect their deliveries. This feature improves customer satisfaction and reduces the number of customer service inquiries.

Route Optimization

Route optimization is another important feature in a logistics app. It enables logistics companies to optimize their routes and reduce travel time, fuel costs, and overall expenses. By using algorithms that consider traffic patterns, distance, and other factors, mobile app development services can help logistics companies plan the most efficient routes for their deliveries. It is also beneficial for customers as it reduces the delivery time and ensures that orders are delivered within the promised time frame.

Delivery Management

Delivery management is another essential feature in a logistics app. It enables logistics companies to manage their deliveries more efficiently by tracking the status of each delivery, providing delivery notifications to customers, and enabling customers to reschedule their deliveries. With delivery management, logistics companies can also ensure that the right product is delivered to the right customer at the right time. It also allows customers to communicate any specific delivery instructions or preferences, such as leaving the package at a specific location or delivering it to a neighbor.

Inventory Management

Inventory management is another crucial feature in a logistics app. It enables logistics companies to manage their inventory more efficiently by tracking inventory levels, monitoring the movement of goods, and ensuring that inventory is always available when needed. It also helps logistics companies to prevent stockouts and overstocks, which can result in increased costs, delays, and reduced customer satisfaction. By using an app with this feature, mobile app development services can help logistics companies maintain optimal inventory levels and ensure that they always have the right products in stock.

Electronic Proof of Delivery

Electronic proof of delivery is another must-have feature in a logistics app. It enables logistics companies to collect electronic signatures from customers, confirm delivery, and maintain a record of proof of delivery. This feature eliminates the need for paper-based systems and provides a secure and reliable way to verify deliveries. This also reduces the risk of fraud, disputes, and delivery errors, which can be costly for logistics companies. It also helps logistics companies to maintain accurate delivery records, which can be useful for auditing and compliance purposes.

Factors affecting logistics app development cost

1. App features and complexity

The app's features and complexity play a vital role in determining the cost of mobile app development services. The more complex the app's features, the more expensive it is to develop. For example, an app that offers real-time tracking, inventory management, and route optimization will cost more than an app that offers just basic shipment tracking.

2. App’s Design

The app's design also plays a significant role in determining how much it cost to make an app. A well-designed app that offers a great user experience will cost more than a poorly designed product.

3. Development Platform

Another factor that affects the cost of app development is the platform used for development. Developing an app for a single platform, such as iOS or Android, will cost less than developing an app for both platforms.

4. Location of Mobile App Development Company

The location of the development team also plays a role in determining the app's cost. Developers in countries with a higher cost of living, such as the United States, will charge more than developers in countries with a lower cost of living, such as India or the Philippines.

5. App testing and maintenance

App testing is an essential part of app development that ensures the app is functioning correctly. The cost of app testing varies based on the number of tests performed and the complexity of the app.

Bottom Line

Logistics is one of the significant industries and is evolving rapidly with the power of technology. Moreover, the cost of logistics app development can vary significantly based on various factors such as app features and complexity, design, development platform, development team location, and app testing. While creating such a complex app can be expensive, it is a worthwhile investment as it can significantly improve a logistics company's operations and efficiency. It is important to choose a team offering mobile app development services that will follow a structured development process to ensure it meets the business's requirements and is within budget.