Optimize for time vs distance
Upper optimizes routes in two modes — Time minimizes total completion time, Distance minimizes total miles. Pick by what matters more: windows or fuel.
Upper can optimize a route in one of two modes: Time minimizes the total time to complete every stop, and Distance minimizes the total miles driven. The mode you choose changes the stop order — and the route — that the optimizer returns. You set it under Optimize For in a route's Advanced Settings.
Why the mode matters
The two goals can pull in different directions. Minimizing time may favor a faster route that covers more miles (for example, the highway), while minimizing distance may favor a shorter route that takes longer (for example, side streets). Picking the mode that fits your operation keeps the optimizer working toward the outcome you actually care about.
Optimize for Time
In Time mode, the optimizer sequences stops to reduce the total time to complete the route. This mode suits time-sensitive work — for example, deliveries with customer time windows, or finishing the day as early as possible.
ETAs in Upper are based on historical traffic data, not a live traffic feed. They reflect typical conditions for the day and time you plan for.
Optimize for Distance
In Distance mode, the optimizer sequences stops to reduce the total miles driven. This mode suits operations where reducing fuel use and vehicle wear matters more than shaving minutes, and where time windows are flexible.
Which to choose
| Factor | Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Primary goal | Fastest completion | Fewest miles |
| Best for | Time-sensitive stops, tight windows | Fuel savings, flexible windows |
| Route shape | May be longer in miles if it's faster | May be slower if it's shorter |
Not sure which fits? Optimize the same set of stops both ways and compare the totals each driver row reports (stops, total time, total distance), then keep the mode that wins for your priority.
Set the mode for a route
Optimize For lives in the route's Advanced Settings, alongside other per-route options such as units and average service time per stop.
Open Advanced Settings
In the route builder, open Advanced Settings from the settings (gear) icon.
Choose Optimize For
Under Optimize For, select Time or Distance.
Save
Select Save Changes. Saving may re-run optimization so the new mode takes effect.
Your workspace can rename the driver and delivery labels, so some screens may read Technician and Service (for example, "Pickups Before Services") instead of the default driver/delivery wording. The Optimize For options are the same either way.
Troubleshooting
If the optimized result still isn't what you expect, contact us at support@upperinc.com.
Related
Optimize a route
Optimize a route in Upper: add stops, assign drivers, and click Optimize Route. Upper sequences every stop for the fastest, most efficient completion.
Set avoidance zones
Create avoidance zones in Upper by drawing a Restricted Area on the map under Coverage. Stops inside the zone get flagged so you can route around closures and no-go areas.