One of the biggest challenges Delivery Service Partners (DSPs) face is the dreaded call-off. When a Delivery Associate (DA) calls off at the last minute, it doesn’t just throw off the day’s schedule—it can result in something far more severe: dropped routes. This is a nightmare scenario for any DSP because dropped routes mean fewer packages delivered, lost revenue, and the potential breach of contract with Amazon.
At 2on2off, we recognized that reducing call-offs needed to be a key focus in building our platform. While it’s impossible to completely eliminate absences, we’ve been able to significantly reduce them for DSPs using the 2on2off system. Some early adopters have reported as much as an 80% decrease in call-offs, transforming the way they manage their operations and minimizing the risk of dropped routes.
The Impact of Call-Offs on DSP Operations
Call-offs can lead to:
- Dropped routes: When too many drivers call off, you may not have enough personnel to cover all assigned routes, resulting in undelivered packages. This not only impacts your revenue (since fewer deliveries mean less income), but it also jeopardizes your relationship with Amazon by increasing the risk of breach of contract.
- Higher operational costs: Scrambling to reassign routes last-minute often means paying overtime or shifting drivers to cover more ground than planned.
- Burnout among remaining DAs: With fewer drivers available, those who show up are forced to carry the extra load. This leads to fatigue, burnout, and even more absenteeism over time, creating a vicious cycle.
For many DSPs, excessive call-offs are a key contributor to operational inefficiencies. The more call-offs there are, the more difficult it becomes to manage routes, maintain performance, and protect your bottom line. But with 2on2off, DSPs are seeing a shift in driver behavior that helps break this cycle.
How 2on2off Helps Reduce Call-Offs and Prevent Dropped Routes
So, how does 2on2off make such a difference? The system takes a multifaceted approach to solving the call-off problem:
- Work-Life Balance Built into the Schedule
The core of 2on2off is a rotating schedule where DAs work two consecutive days followed by two days off. This built-in balance helps reduce burnout and gives drivers predictable downtime. When employees know they’ll get regular days off, they’re less likely to feel overworked, meaning fewer call-offs due to fatigue or personal burnout. One DSP shared:
“Our call-offs have decreased dramatically since the start of 2on2off! We went from 5-10 call-offs daily to 0-2 immediately. We’ve even had days with no call-offs at all—something that hadn’t happened in ages.”
Fewer call-offs mean more consistent coverage and drastically lower the risk of dropped routes.
- Empowering DAs with Scheduling Flexibility
Beyond a predictable rotation, 2on2off gives DAs more control over their schedules. Drivers can use the app to trade shifts, pick up extra shifts, or give away shifts—all without having to call off at the last minute. This flexibility reduces the number of last-minute cancellations and keeps routes covered. Another DSP shared:
“Drivers love it because they get a break every second shift. And if they need a specific day off, scheduling it has become much easier through the app.”
- Voluntary Time Off (VTO) & Voluntary Extra Time (VET)
When route counts are low, you can offer Voluntary Time Off (VTO) to reduce staff, giving DAs who don’t need the extra hours the chance to take the day off. On high-volume days, you can offer Voluntary Extra Time (VET) to cover additional routes or shortfalls. This flexibility ensures you can always match staffing levels with operational demand, keeping call-offs from affecting your ability to complete all assigned routes.
The Bigger Picture: Fewer Call-Offs, Better Business
The impact of reduced call-offs goes far beyond day-to-day convenience. By minimizing absences, you also:
- Avoid dropped routes, protecting your revenue and performance scorecard with Amazon.
- Increase retention, as fewer call-offs lead to less burnout, better team morale, and more consistency in your workforce.
- Save on labor costs, since fewer call-offs mean less reliance on overtime and emergency staffing measures.
One DSP who’s experienced these benefits firsthand stated:
“Drivers seem more energized and willing to show up for their shifts. The overall attendance has improved, and the risk of dropping routes has nearly disappeared. It’s a huge relief.”
A Solution Built for DSPs
Call-offs are a challenge every DSP faces, but with 2on2off, we’ve developed a system that directly addresses the problem. By combining a predictable, balanced schedule with the flexibility DAs need, 2on2off has helped DSPs take control of their operations and reduce the risk of dropped routes.
If you’re ready to reduce call-offs, protect your routes, and keep your team engaged, it’s time to make the switch to 2on2off.
Ready to take control of your team’s schedule?
Learn more about 2on2off and how it can help your DSP by visiting 2on2off.com.
