# last mile

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/last-mile
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The final stage of delivery of goods, etc., from a distribution centre to the consumer, often involving greater effort or expense.

## Examples

- The last mile is the hardest part of the delivery process.
- Logistics companies often struggle to keep costs down during the last mile of delivery to a customer's home.
- While the global supply chain operates with impressive efficiency, the last mile remains a complex challenge that requires significant investment and local coordination.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.