How to Grow Your Business with White Glove Deliveries

Final mile is expected to grow from a $3.7 billion industry to $12 billion in the next decade. The fastest growing sector of final mile deliveries? White glove.White glove derives its name from the customized level of service that it can contain; going above and beyond “standard delivery” for the consignee. It can be as simple as bringing an item under a cover such as a garage or porch (threshold), a specific room of the consumer’s choice (room of choice) or unboxing, assembly and other services (premium white glove).This service in particular is one of the most demanded in the final mile. As consumers have grown more comfortable ordering bigger and more expensive items such as televisions, appliances and couches online, the need for carriers to deliver these items has exploded.Is White Glove the best place for you to expand your business? Learn how you can gain a piece of the billion dollar pie:

What does a white glove delivery entail?

White glove delivery can mean many things, but here are some of the more common services and definitions.Please note that what white glove delivery entails will vary based on the company you’re delivering for and their parameters as well was what you’re delivering. By adding white glove to your company services you are not obliging your company to completing all of the below tasks.Threshold: Delivery at a garage, porch or just over the front door (or threshold) of a home.Big & Bulky: Delivery of items that do not fit within the standard operations of parcel delivery. This is typically because they are oddly shaped (such as pianos) or too large (such as refrigerators.)Room of Choice: Delivery to the room that the product will eventually live in. This is typically true for appliances, exercise equipment and furniture.Installation: Actually removing the item from the packaging and installing the item. This can require some knowledge and expertise by the driver/technician based around that particular item.Dunnage removal: Removal of all trash associated with the delivery of the product such as cardboard boxes and bubble wrap.

What do I need to complete white glove deliveries?

There’s a good chance you already have the trucks to make White Glove deliveries. Again, because of the custom nature of these deliveries, the type of truck you will need can vary greatly. However, as most of these deliveries are made to locations such as residential neighborhoods and offices, you want to be mindful that your drivers will be able to navigate with the trucks they’re using.The most common vehicles used are Sprinter vans, Cargo vans and Box trucks (16’, 20’, 24’.) Smaller vehicles are best for this work, as larger vehicles can’t navigate through residential areas with ease, and can cause damage due to their size.You may also need to be prepared to send more than one employee to make the delivery. Some white glove delivery items can require 2 or even 3 people to move them.Lastly, we recommend ensuring your vehicle has a lift gate (for moving the big and bulky items to the ground) as well as equipment your driver will need to place the delivery, such as a handcart.

Are you ready to grow into white glove deliveries?

For many, adding white glove to your service offering can be a profitable choice. If you’re adding white glove to your service offerings and are looking for ways to grow your business, consider joining a community that provides education, resources and opportunities in the final mile:Customized Logistics Delivery AssociationExpress Carriers AssociationeTrac Carrier Partner ProgramThe eTrac Carrier Partner Program provides exclusive opportunities from eTrac shippers and 3PL’s. White glove service providers are particularly in demand. Being an eTrac Partner is free! Learn more about becoming a partner and its benefits here: www.etracfinalmile.com/carrier-partner-program.