2023 is shaping up to be a great year for trucking businesses. The latest tech trends are making it easier and more efficient than ever before to run a successful business, from automated fleets and real-time tracking systems to improved safety features.
A Fleet Owner magazine article projects that the trucking industry will keep expanding in 2023 due to the increased adoption of technology. By implementing the appropriate tools and strategies supported by a trucking business plan, your business can benefit from this trend through higher efficiency, lower costs, and improved customer service.
Technology has revolutionized the trucking industry with numerous new advancements in recent years. These technologies are enhancing the performance, safety, and efficiency of both trucks and drivers. Additionally, they are simplifying fleet management. Here are some of the most significant tech trends in the trucking business:
1. ELDs
Since December 2019, the trucking industry has mandated the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs). Their purpose is to increase safety for drivers, prevent harassment, and reduce paperwork.
ELDs replace the traditional paper logbooks that truck drivers have used for decades, tracking driving hours by collecting engine and location data on an electronic log. This change has helped truckers stay within Hours of Service regulations, reduced paperwork, and eliminated mistakes.
2. GPS Tracking
GPS tracking is a highly valuable technology for the trucking industry. It enables trucking companies to monitor their trucks, routes, and drivers effectively. By providing greater visibility and control over fleet operations, GPS tracking has made trucking more efficient and cost-effective.
Real-time tracking allows companies to monitor their fleets and deliveries, ensuring the timely arrival of shipments and adherence to schedules.
3. Automated Vehicles
Automated vehicles are being used more frequently in the freight transport sector. For navigation and avoidance of obstacles, those trucks shall be equipped with a sensor, camera, or GPS. This technology makes long-haul transportation a safer and less stressful job for drivers, by reducing driver fatigue.
In anticipation of economic benefits such as cost savings, enhanced security, and improved efficiency, a number of companies are testing the use of autonomously operated vehicles.
4. Fleet Management Software
Managing a fleet of trucks is a big task, but fleet management software simplifies it. These software systems can help to manage tasks such as routing, dispatching, and maintenance scheduling.
They'll also be in a position to provide up-to-date information on truck performance, vehicle maintenance issues, and driver performance. Fleet management software will make it easier for freight carriers to optimize their fleets, improve efficiency and reduce costs.
5. The Internet of Things (IoT)
A network of connected devices and sensors that can communicate with each other is the Internet of Things. In the case of transport, Internet of Things enables trucks to communicate and exchange data with other vehicles, businesses as well as control centres.
This technology will help haulage companies to monitor and track their fleets, optimize fuel consumption as well as improve driver performance.
Heads-Up for the Unnoticeable Mistake
One common mistake is not accounting for the cost of implementation and upkeep of these technologies. Many owners fail to consider the high upfront costs, hardware and software requirements, and ongoing maintenance costs associated with these systems.
Other errors include not properly training staff on how to use the technology or not taking advantage of all the features available. Finally, a trucking business owner must be sure to stay up-to-date on the newest technologies and trends in order to remain competitive in an ever-changing market.
These innovative technologies make the processes easier, cost-effective, and safe. Companies embracing these latest tech trends can expect to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline operations. Technology is not only improving the performance of the vehicles themselves but also helps companies to monitor and improve driver performance, which enhances the safety of the trucking industry.
Through technology, John Smith of Smith Enterprises, a haulage business, has made his company more efficient and profitable. Improved driver conditions and improved service to customers have been achieved. New technology trends are exciting and promising for the haulage industry, which makes it easier than ever to run a fleet of trucks. In fact, we are at an advanced stage of a technological-driven transformation that will bring the biggest change to the transport industry in decades.
