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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryRetail Media & CommerceLast-Mile Delivery

Retail Media & Commerce

Last-Mile Delivery

The final leg of shipping from a distribution hub to the customer's door, often the costliest part of fulfillment.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

Last-mile delivery is the final leg of shipping, from a distribution hub or store to the customer's door. It is often the costliest and most complex part of fulfillment because of individual drop-offs and failed delivery attempts. Speed and reliability in the last mile strongly influence customer satisfaction.