Glossary.

Practical definitions for the terms that come up in last-mile logistics. Written by operators, not marketing.

• Hotshot

  Expedited, dedicated, time-sensitive delivery typically using a single driver and vehicle, dispatched on demand without route consolidation.

• Last mile

  The final leg of delivery from a transportation hub to the recipient. Dominates total delivery cost despite covering the shortest distance.

• On-Demand Delivery

  A delivery model where shipments are fulfilled immediately using available drivers in the area, rather than scheduled routes or standing courier contracts.

• P95 lateness

  The 95th-percentile late arrival time for a delivery cohort. Captures tail risk that average on-time rate hides. The number your worst-served customers actually experience.

• Proof of Delivery

  Documentation that confirms a shipment was received — typically a signature, photo, or barcode scan captured at the delivery point.

• Same-day delivery

  Delivery to the recipient within the same calendar day the order was placed. Distinct from on-demand and hotshot by its consolidation across multiple shipments.