Australia’s logistics networks faced their annual stress test as Click Frenzy and Black Friday drove significant spikes in online shopping volumes.
Volume Performance
Order Metrics
Early indicators show:
- Click Frenzy orders: Up 18% vs 2023
- Black Friday weekend: Record parcel volumes
- Average order value: Slightly down
- Order frequency: Increased per customer
Category Breakdown
Top performing segments:
- Fashion and apparel: Strong growth
- Electronics: Steady volumes
- Home and garden: Solid performance
- Beauty and personal care: Above expectations
Network Response
Carrier Performance
Overall assessment:
- Major carriers: Capacity held well
- Regional delivery: Minor delays in some areas
- Metro next-day: Largely maintained
- Tracking accuracy: Improved vs prior years
Pain Points
Challenges observed:
- Some rural and regional delays
- Apartment delivery coordination
- Returns volume management
- Customer service queues
Retailer Outcomes
Logistics Success Factors
High performers featured:
- Multi-carrier strategies
- Ship-from-store capabilities
- Inventory positioning
- Customer communication
Lessons Learned
Areas for improvement:
- Last-mile capacity flexibility
- Returns process streamlining
- Customer expectation setting
- Technology resilience
The peak period serves as a valuable rehearsal for the December holiday rush.