How We Reshaped Budapest forSmart Delivery NetworksHow We Reshaped Budapest forSmart Delivery Networks
The Challenge
Can Budapest's last-mile network run leaner without compromising service?
Smart Delivery Networks suspected their Budapest operation was over-deployed – too many depots and routes – yet under-optimised in day-to-day efficiency, with inefficient zone-to-depot assignments, variable reach times and uneven courier loads.
The team needed data-driven clarity – not assumptions – to decide whether to consolidate depots, redraw zones and rebalance workloads without risking service levels.
What We Implemented
The Routing Lab analysed the full network using a three-step, evidence-based approach.
Delivery Distribution Analysis
The Routing Lab analysed all citywide deliveries by depot and zone, mapping volumes, reach times and handling durations.
This highlighted where certain depots were overstretched while others were underused – giving clear evidence for redesigning coverage and workload balance.
Depot Planning & Visualisation
We produced area coverage maps to reveal overlaps and blind spots, supported by reachability and first-attempt success metrics.
The Routing Lab then modelled multiple what-if scenarios, comparing each potential depot layout for efficiency, coverage and courier balance, supported by historical statistics such as time-to-serve and first-attempt success drivers.
Route & Zone Assignment Tools
The Routing Lab's algorithms reassigned zones, depots and couriers based on capacity, time-window and route-length constraints.
The system also flagged multi-courier zones, subcontractor requirements and future growth scenarios – quantifying exactly how each change would impact cost, performance and operational stability.
Results That Delivered
Data-driven redesign that reduced depots, balanced workloads and improved reach times across the Budapest network.
Depots Reduced:
Lean network footprint that removes redundancy and improves coverage clarity
Couriers Optimised:
Reduced operating load while keeping delivery performance high
Reach Times
Significant gains in delivery speed and route efficiency
Every depot and route redesign decision was backed by data – enabling faster, more predictable deliveries with lower operational costs and a stronger foundation for future growth.
Real Business Impact
Scaling the optimisation across the full courier network unlocks major savings and sustained performance gains.
Lower Operating Costs:
Right-sized workforce, reduced overhead
Improved SLA Performance:
Smarter zone design, fewer overlaps
Scalable Growth Model:
Repeatable optimisation playbook for new regions
The Smart Delivery Networks pilot shows how data-driven network design strengthens both profitability and service reliability, giving logistics operators a repeatable model for scaling operations across multiple cities.
Client's perspective
The Routing Lab provided an excellent last-mile network optimisation service. Their simulations significantly improved route efficiency and streamlined our delivery operations. The team was flexible, transparent and consistently results-oriented – we highly recommend The Routing Lab to any organisation seeking innovative routing solutions.”
Why It Worked
Data-driven redesign that reduced depots, balanced workloads and improved reach times across the Budapest network.
Data Before Decisions
Every recommendation stemmed from real delivery volumes, reachability and handling-time data – ensuring each change measurably improved performance.
Scenario Design at Scale
Side-by-side modelling of multiple network setups made the 3-depot configuration the clear winner for both reach time and efficiency.
Operational Fit
Zone and route designs respected real-world constraints – time windows, capacity limits and subcontractor use – so the optimisation worked in practice, not just in theory.
Future-Proofing
Simulations showed how the network holds under shifting demand patterns, helping the client scale confidently while minimising future rework.
Redesign Your City Network
If your city network looks busy but feels inefficient, we can help you see where to change – and how much it pays off.
Let's rewire your next city.
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