New Technologies That Benefit Truck Drivers

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In a career as important as truck driving, any strategy that can improve the efficiency and daily operations of drivers can have a significant impact on the global economy. 

 

Modern technologies have revolutionized the industry by optimizing route planning, increasing fuel efficiency, and reducing idle time. By leveraging these groundbreaking advancements, drivers can save both time and money, enhancing their overall productivity and contributing to a more efficient supply chain. 

 

Keep reading to find out six of the best technologies today’s truck drivers can invest in, and how these tools can transform your driving experience and operational efficiency.  

 

Autonomous Vehicles  

One of the most talked about modern advancements in the trucking industry has been the introduction of autonomous, or self-driving, vehicles.  

 

Although self-driving trucks are still far from becoming an industry standard, a number of major companies have run successful tests that promise a future of improved safety, increased efficiency, and reduced carbon emissions.  

 

These breakthroughs began with the initial introduction of advanced driver assist systems, or ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, electronic stability control and adaptive cruise control. Now, companies like EASE Logistics have pushed the envelope with the development of programs that use AI (Artificial Intelligence) vehicle-to-vehicle communication to power autonomous truck convoys.  

 

Self-driving trucks might seem worrisome for drivers concerned about being replaced, but they really serve as an opportunity. Drivers are still required to operate these trucks in some capacity, but now they will have more time to focus on route optimization and customer service.  

 

Electric Vehicles  

A technological breakthrough that has swept the world by storm and continues to grow in popularity, electric vehicles (EVs) are seen by many as the future of the trucking industry. 

 

 

Although EVs still require a significant upfront investment, especially for owner-operators, they can reduce costs over time by requiring less maintenance and eliminating fuel expenses. EVs also significantly lower carbon emissions, making them an excellent choice as state and federal regulations continue to tighten environmental standards. 

 

GPS Tracking and Route Optimization Software 

No matter the route distance or freight carried, using these technologies can make trucking easier for every driver. 

 

GPS tracking software uses satellite signals to pinpoint a vehicle’s location in real time and provide accurate data on the vehicle’s position, speed, and direction. Route optimization software plans the most efficient routes for deliveries by using algorithms to account for delivery addresses, time windows, vehicle capacity, and traffic conditions.  

 

Many route optimization solutions now integrate GPS tracking and route planning into a single platform. This allows drivers to minimize unnecessary miles, offer reliable ETAs, and review past routes to increase future efficiency.  

 

Electronic Logging Devices  

ELDs are not just a time-saving organizational tool for truckers, they have also become a required device for many bus and truck drivers in the US.  

 

An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is a tool used by drivers of commercial vehicles to automatically track driving time and Hours of Service (HOS) records. They can also capture data on the vehicle’s engine, movement, and miles driven.  

 

After installing a telematics device, an ELD works by sending the collected engine and GPS location data to be analyzed. Drivers can then access the data via a mobile app, while fleet managers can view the data through their own company software. 

 

By replacing manual paper logs, ELDs reduce driver paperwork, maintain accurate record-keeping, and comply with increasing regulations.  

 

Mobile Apps and Programs  

Among the many recent technological innovations that aid truckers, mobile apps have become an indispensable tool that offers solutions ranging from navigation and fuel optimization to regulatory compliance and load management.  

 

Apps such as Trucker Path and GasBuddy assist in route planning and locating the most affordable fueling stations, while TruckSmart and Trucker Tools help drivers access roadside assistance, find truck stops, and manage and book loads.  

 

Additional trucking challenges, such as finding parking, can also be solved through mobile apps. Trucking Parking Club displays available spots across the nation, allowing drivers to search for free parking or book spots days in advance.  

 

 

 

Looking for more advice on increasing your efficiency and optimizing operations as a truck driver? Find out more on our Truck Driver Blog and connect with us on social media today.  

 

Essential Tips for Food Delivery Truck Drivers

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It’s not an overstatement to say that the global economy depends on truck drivers.  

 

With over 30% of the world’s food supplies transported by truck each year, food and beverage delivery drivers play a critical role in maintaining restaurants, farms, businesses, and everyday families across the globe.  

 

Keep reading to find out what this important trucking job entails, and our four essential tips to maximize operational efficiency and find success as a food and beverage delivery driver.  

 

Top Advice for Food and Beverage Delivery  

In many ways, carrying food and beverage as freight is similar to other kinds of trucking. However, there are unique aspects and additional responsibilities that come with transporting perishable goods.  

 

By understanding these expectations and preparing for the unique aspects of food and beverage delivery, you can navigate the challenges and excel in your role as a delivery driver. 

 

Ensuring proper load management and temperature control are critical to safely handling food and beverage products and maintaining FDA standards. Drivers must follow the FDA’s food transportation regulations at all times, which aim to prevent practices during transportation that create food safety risks, such as improper refrigeration or inadequate cleaning of vehicles. 

Be sure to remain up to date on current regulations, such as required sanitary practices and temperature monitoring protocols. Regularly check the FDA website and subscribe to industry updates to stay informed about any changes in the regulations. Proper load management involves organizing cargo to prevent damage and ensure stability, while also considering weight distribution to avoid vehicle control issues. 

Temperature control is equally important. Use calibrated thermometers to verify that refrigeration units are functioning correctly and maintain the required temperatures throughout the journey. Record and log temperatures at regular intervals to ensure compliance and to provide documentation in case of an audit. 

 

Route efficiency planning and timeliness are crucial when carrying any freight, but especially with perishable items like food and beverages. Unlike some freight, food and beverage shipments are assigned a must-arrive-by date. If there are any delays in delivery, suppliers are usually charged a rescheduling fee on top of the money losses from wasted product. This puts pressure on delivery drivers to plan routes efficiently to minimize delivery time.  

To ensure timely delivery, consider using route planning software that considers real-time traffic data, road conditions, and weather forecasts. This technology can help identify the quickest and most efficient routes, avoiding potential delays. Additionally, always have a contingency plan in place for unexpected disruptions, such as road closures or vehicle breakdowns. 

It also helps to regularly maintain your vehicle to reduce the risk of breakdowns. Perform pre-trip inspections to check for any issues that could cause delays, such as tire pressure, fluid levels, and the functionality of refrigeration units. 

 

Product knowledge is important when carrying freight like food and beverages that can have specific requirements and unique challenges. Familiarize yourself with the products you’re delivering to ensure that food quality is maintained throughout transportation.  

Be sure to be aware of any special handling requirements, such as fragile items or perishable goods. Stay informed about the shelf life and storage conditions of the items you’re transporting. Knowing how long products can safely remain at various temperatures and under different conditions will help you prioritize deliveries and reduce the risk of spoilage. For example, frozen foods must be kept below a certain temperature, while fresh produce might have different humidity requirements. 

 

Good customer service and communication are essential to finding success as a food and beverage delivery driver. Be courteous and professional when interacting with customers, ensuring you greet them politely and address any concerns they may have.  

Clear and timely communication about delivery status, including any potential delays, helps build trust and reliability. Provide updates on expected arrival times and promptly inform customers and dispatch of any changes. 

Remember, excellent service can lead to repeat business and positive reviews, which are invaluable in this competitive industry. 

 

 

Looking for more information on truck driving jobs and industry trends? Be sure to check out the rest of our Truck Driver Blog posts and connect with us on social media.  

What Drivers Need to Know About Full Truckload vs Less Than Truckload Shipping

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With over 70% of domestic freight in the US transported by truck, commercial truck drivers are responsible for ensuring the timely and safe delivery of a vast array of goods.  

 

As a driver, understanding the nuances between Full Truckload (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is crucial for maximizing efficiency, reducing costs, and maintaining customer satisfaction.  

 

Keep reading to find out more about the differences, advantages, and best practices associated with FTL and LTL shipping, so you can continue to make informed decisions and optimize your operations on the road. 

 

What is Full Truckload Shipping? 

Typically, you’ll see this mode of transportation abbreviated as FTL (Full Truckload) or TL (Truckload). Simply put, full truckload shipping is when one shipper’s freight takes up an entire trailer. FTL shipments are generally large, heavy shipments or high-value goods that take up the entire space or weight limit of a trailer.  

 

Unlike less than truckload shipping, FTL shipments follow a direct route from origin to destination with no stops in between. This makes for faster transit times with less handling and reloading required by drivers.  

 

This also means that drivers are allowed more flexibility with loading and unloading times, since FTL shipping does not require coordination at multiple points along the route for pickups and deliveries.  

 

Because FTL shipping involves less handling and more direct routes, shippers usually prefer to use this method for time-sensitive deliveries and fragile goods. However, FTL is also the most expensive shipping option and is only efficient when freight is large enough to take up the entire trailer.  

 

How is Less Than Truckload Shipping Different? 

Drivers can also choose a less than truckload run, which involves carrying shipments from multiple customers in one truck. Each shipment occupies only part of the trailer space, making it ideal for smaller freight.  

 

Because LTL shipping follows the “hub and spoke” model of utilizing different transportation hubs to sort and redistribute individual freight, this shipping method requires multiple stops along the route.  

 

Drivers must consider that the frequency of pickup and delivery stops and the increase in handling of freight at various distribution centers leads to a longer transit time and higher risk of damage. LTL shipping requires careful loading and unloading practices at every stop to ensure the safe delivery of freight.  

 

 

 

Understanding the differences between FTL and LTL shipping is important for every truck driver. With both methods, it is essential to optimize load distribution, route efficiency, and loading/unloading practices to save time and money and improve operations.  

 

For more information on trucking terms, industry trends, and up-to-date advice, be sure to check out more of our Truck Driver Blog posts and connect with us on social media.