The transportation industry has always been an early adopter of connectivity technologies in regards to their trucks. The connected truck is now an industry standard and utilizing these technologies can contribute to some key business drivers for transportation companies, and to make the technology worthwhile to continue to evolve in their fleets.
Getting There Faster and Cheaper
It seems like forever since trucks didn’t use GPS technology, but with updated truck tech, it’s not just mapping that is offered. Optimal routing, intelligent navigation calculations, accident and incident route forecasting for route adjustments, all of these things and more are offered fairly standard now. Fleet telematics is seen as a major component to maximize productivity and efficiencies and help reduce cost.
Forbes recently provided an infographic to help illustrate the effect.
Better Data and Communication
Having the truck itself act as a conduit of data points helps the transfer of information for the driver, dispatch and the total operations. Automated shipping notifications, digital hours of service (HOS), and direct data transfer from truck to dispatch can all help with a better flow of information. Proof of delivery can be automated, camera enabled devices can provide verified product delivery and all parties involved can be notified to increase visibility in service delivery.
Helping Drivers (and their Trucks) do their Jobs
The drivers may reap the most rewards with a more connected truck with remote diagnostics so if equipment issues arise, they will know and the company will be notified. It can also provide proactive measures and notifications for scheduling maintenance. This can help reduce vehicle downtime by sending critical fault codes and also give drivers nearby dealer locations.
Also, telematic systems can help the driver with alerts and reminders for things like speeding, braking, and extended idling so they can correct unproductive behaviors and reduce wear and tear on equipment.
Truck connectivity technologies improve on a daily basis so staying on top of what new advancements are available for your truck can garner a number of improvements to the efficiencies, and overall bottom line, for your operations.
