Long story short, Pilecky says the driver finally checked in after claiming to be ill (even too sick to make a phone call). The truck arrived at the receiving dock the next morning, and all involved parties were forced into negotiations due to the late delivery.
Now, of course, technology would make such a situation nearly unthinkable. Almost every driver has a smartphone and usually a tablet as well. Drivers can use apps to find the best routes, manage hours of service, book their next load, tally expenses, and even plan meals.
According to a recent survey of more than 6,000 owner-operators, 57 percent are already using their smartphones more than last year; 37 percent regurlarly use them to book loads, and 33 percent use connected devices to monitor weather, road conditions, and fuel prices. Over a third also employ GPS, load tracking devices, temperature monitors, and electronic logs.
A plethora of apps
The types of apps available, with new ones popping up almost daily, present a staggering mix of game-like images and high-tech convenience.
Truck booking applications like LoadStart, Getloaded, TruckersEdge, and ITS Trucker allow drivers to find and book loads, bid on them, and exchange rates. FleetSafer, Drive First, Textecution, and KyrusFleet are all focused on driver safety, and provide ways to prevent accidents due to distracted driving all at minimal to no cost.
Then there’s scanning technology like Camscanner and Tiny Scanner, which can capture and disseminate vital information on loads, even if the information is handwritten or nondigital. “The ability to share documentation this quickly,” notes Pilecky, “allows for fewer claims and faster settlements.”
Moving Forward
With such a vast range of alternatives, it can seem overwhelming to figure out which transportation technology may be best for your company.
Here again, however, the technology is your tool as well as your aim. By contacting different vendors and determining your company’s specific technological needs—and then making sure you check the rates, reputation, and degree of technical support available—you can be sure to find the right technology to fit your company’s current and future needs.
As cloud computing, the Internet of Things, and wireless phone applications continue to be more common and more necessary, failing to move forward is not an option.
Images: Taiga/Shutterstock.com
