The rise of last-mile logistics: How Inospace is shaping urban delivery in South Africa

The e-commerce boom has reshaped the way goods move across cities, placing growing pressure on logistics providers to deliver faster, more efficiently and more sustainably. In South Africa, this shift has created an urgent demand for last-mile logistics infrastructure that is not only well-located but also designed to support flexible, tech-enabled operations.

This is where Inospace is leading the way.

What is last-mile logistics?

Last-mile logistics refers to the final step of the delivery process when a product moves from a distribution hub to the customer. It is often the most expensive and complex part of the supply chain, especially in urban environments where traffic, inefficiencies and high customer expectations present constant challenges.

Efficient last-mile solutions are essential for e-commerce businesses that rely on speed and accuracy to remain competitive.

Inospace's urban-first approach

Inospace owns and operates a network of logistics-enabled parks across Cape Town and Johannesburg, strategically located close to key arterial roads, ports and high-density suburbs. These parks are designed specifically for businesses that need to be close to their customers to provide same-day or next-day delivery.

Locations like Jet Works in Boksburg place operations within 10–15 minutes of major urban nodes, reducing transport time and costs. Our only dedicated fulfilment warehouse is based at Island Works in Paarden Eiland, Cape Town, offering a full-service e-commerce fulfilment solution.

Explore our network of logistics hubs: Inospace Locations

Designed for speed and flexibility

Traditional warehouses often lack the design features needed for fast-moving, last-mile operations. Inospace facilities are built or refurbished with these needs in mind:

• Multiple access points for easy vehicle movement and delivery routing

• Roller shutter doors and ground-floor access for quick loading and offloading

• Business hubs onsite with meeting rooms, reception services and co-working spaces for operational agility

Our logistics-enabled parks support a range of delivery operations, while Island Works offers dedicated fulfilment services tailored for e-commerce businesses.

See how our fulfilment service works: Inospace Fulfilment

Empowering SMEs in the e-commerce sector

As more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) tap into online retail, they require access to affordable, scalable logistics support. Inospace’s month-to-month leases and all-inclusive service offerings are ideal for SMEs that need flexibility to scale with demand.

This is particularly valuable in uncertain economic conditions, where minimising long-term commitments gives entrepreneurs the confidence to grow their businesses.

Read how we’re supporting growing businesses: Client Stories

Supporting a low-carbon logistics future

Last-mile logistics is not just about speed; it's also about sustainability. Long travel distances and idling vehicles contribute significantly to urban emissions. By locating fulfilment and logistics operations closer to customers, Inospace reduces the carbon footprint of each delivery.

Several of our parks also include solar installations, recycling initiatives and energy-efficient upgrades that support our broader ESG goals.

Learn about our commitment to sustainability: Our Impact

Inocircle: More than just space

Beyond infrastructure, Inospace supports its clients through Inocircle, our tenant support programme. Inocircle provides access to value-added services such as courier deals, logistics partnerships and shared business facilities that enhance delivery capabilities.

For last-mile operators, these benefits can significantly reduce time, cost and administrative complexity.

Discover the advantages of being part of our community: Inocircle Benefits

Final thoughts

As last-mile delivery continues to grow in importance, businesses will need more than just a storage facility. They’ll need a partner who understands the demands of fast fulfilment, operational flexibility and location strategy.

Inospace is proud to provide that support, helping businesses of all sizes thrive in the new urban logistics economy.

Want to stay close to your customers? Find a last-mile location near you

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