White Papers – Envase Technologies

TMS: The Mighty Software What Is a TMS and How Does It Work?

The Envase Team — Sat, 19 Feb 2022 19:46:00 +0000

What Does TMS Stand For?

Transportation management system/software (TMS) is a system of management for supply chains to aid in the movement of goods. It is also a helpful tool for boosting business and growing the company.

Broken down, this basically means it’s an aid for truck drivers to move supplies for companies from point A (usually a warehouse) to point B (usually a store). Generally, this software can be uploaded to any company’s interface to provide important details to the company and the driver. This information can range from changes in deliver time or place to a complete reroute from the original drop off point to a new location. TMS software ensures the drivers know what they are supposed to do, while alerting them of any changes made last minute by the company.

What It Means

The TMS system works throughout multiple companies at one time to ensure each person involved has the information required to do their job correctly and move freight for any company where it needs to go.

Depending on the type of system the company uses, it’s possible to have advanced features for reports or integrations when one driver is working with multiple companies. It means the company (or companies) and the driver can communicate with each other at all times to ensure the freight in question leaves from and arrives at the correct locations.

Types of TMS

There are a few different types of TMS that could be useful to a company or driver. Each type has its pros and cons that could make it right or wrong for the specific needs of the individual or group.

The earliest use of TMS was on-premise software. This worked if the company had a computer available with internet to upload information and allow other companies with computers and internet to work with any information uploaded by each other. While this system helped the companies out, things were still difficult for the drivers who were not guaranteed to have computers or internet in their trucks.

As time went on, the realization that on-premise technology was not helpful for the driver came into play and created the cloud-based/SaaS (software-as-a-service) version of TMS. In today’s world, most drivers have a smartphone. This allows them to access information on the cloud from anywhere at any time. The driver can see a new run or changes made to a previously scheduled run. The cloud-based TMS also provides easier access for updates and installation for the system.

Due to the ease of access with a TMS, the companies can easily track, book, and rate their drivers, and each driver can see this information as well. Think of it as an easier way for the company to tell the driver he or she did a great job, or that they need to take freight from one location to another.

How Does a TMS Work?

TMS focuses on the most reliable, efficient, and cost-effective ways to deliver freight. This system can track any packages or larger freight from the location it departs, to every stop it makes, until it reaches its destination.

More companies are implementing TMS every day to provide better service all around. This process of using TMS provides more perks than tracking freight. Because companies can track their freight and packages, they are providing better customer service to their consumers. Any customers working with these companies can track their packages and pinpoint their arrival. This allows customers to have more say in their shopping and provides companies with repeat business.

What a TMS Does

The idea is that TMS provides information to and from drivers and companies to keep everyone, including customers, in the loop of where the freight is and how or when it might arrive at its destination.

The better side of this idea provides important delivery, inventory, and cash flow aspects to businesses and drivers. Having a TMS can provide the business with a detailed set of information for delivery options and information, as well as providing the driver with a bill of landing that can be immediately seen by the company should they choose.

Another way TMS works well with companies and their drivers is by lowering their inventory requirements. Because the company can see the customer is receiving their deliveries, this cuts back on their inventory and provides the opportunity to better predict their future inventory.

All of these options also provide improvements to the company’s cash flow. TMS provides accounting for freights within the system, allowing drivers and companies to account for payments, audit their inventory and books, and provide consolidation for products on hand or leaving with a driver.

How a TMS Helps

While above addresses the ideas of tracking deliveries, increasing customer relations, and improving inventory; there is still more to be said about the benefits of TMS. It’s a system with many faces that can help grow any business to reach its full potential.

This system provides the opportunity for a company’s warehouse to improve its efficiency and for the company to increase its supply chain. The improvements at the warehouse come from the ability to track and record orders within the system. This allows for the efficiency and productivity at the warehouse to boost, not only the warehouse work, but the customer satisfaction rates. By having an efficient warehouse team, the freight can be sent out quicker and thereby be delivered to the customer in a timely manner.

The improvements to the supply chain are made based on many factors. Some of these are on the driver more than the company. Having the ability to track the driver and the package provides an ease of proficiency in knowing when the driver picks up or delivers the package and having the sense of comfort that the package was delivered to the correct location. This provides an easier supply chain from the company to the customer.

Benefits of a TMS

Many benefits have already been discussed in the previous sections. The idea at this point is to bring together the many benefits and discuss the options of those still left out of the list. So far, the discussion has encompassed deliveries, cost, customer service, warehouse production, supply, and company cash flow.

All of these ideas produce great results with TMS and aid in overall business satisfaction. It’s important to note that TMS is not responsible for companies and drivers achieving these goals. TMS can only aid in the ease of these topics, the program helps a company get organized and be able to do all these things through the program, but it doesn’t do them for the company. Someone at the company, or a driver, still has to push buttons to make things happen.

Another perk of TMS software is the ability to tell which carriers to continue working with. The software can tell how frequently a carrier delivers a package to a customer on time. If a company has been working with a carrier that’s always late, it will make them want to find a new carrier to boost warehouse numbers and customer satisfaction rating. This software can help determine which carriers are the best.

Once the software is up and running, it’s easy to tell which carriers show up on time and which don’t. Making that distinction can mean the difference between a repeat customer and an angry one. It’s important that customers receive their packages on time, especially if they are able to track them and know when they should arrive.

The Specialized Software

TMS (Transportation Management System/Software) is a specialized software to aid in the growing business world. It can provide a multitude of advancements in any company if given the chance to work. With this software any company could boost sales, warehouse production, customer satisfaction rates, deliveries, and even cash flow.

The most important thing to remember about TMS is that the company has to do the work. This isn’t a system to just plug in and let do the work for you. It’s going to be a learning curve and, for some, an adjustment, but it will all be worth it in the end when all the changes are positive and moving forward.

Be sure to do the research before purchasing a system. Each one is different, and some will not have a single aspect needed while others will have too many that aren’t needed for the company. It’s important to choose the right program for the business needs, otherwise it’s a pure waste of time and money.

While all of this sounds great, it’s still important to choose the right system. This site has a list of all TMS providers to ensure the company has what they need. It is important to research every system before making a decision to ensure the company has everything it will need to succeed.

Don’t let the list be a trickster. Being at the top of the list, in this case, doesn’t make that software the best choice. It’s still important to consider each one on an individual basis and decide which features will work best for what the company needs. It’s also important to decide which one works, not only for the company’s needs, but can work for the drivers as well. Be sure all employees, drivers included, are able to easily use the software. This will be a safe point to show that each individual can use this program for the company to get the information and results it needs to move forward.

It wouldn’t be right to find a software that fits the company, but it doesn’t work for the driver out on the road. The importance of the driver’s needs is equal to that of the company’s needs. If the driver can’t use the software, there’s no chance the company can keep track of them. Part of the benefits of TMS is to ensure customer satisfaction and on-time deliveries.

It wouldn’t be possible to follow through with the latter if the software the company chose didn’t allow the driver to access the information to be able to inform the company when the package was delivered. Choosing the right software can help to avoid this mess and provide peace of mind and ease of use for all involved. This software could provide the company with the information it needs to prove suspicions that perhaps the carrier isn’t as efficient as they’ve been seeming to be.

Conclusion

Many will buy the first one on the list because it’s first. The problem is, first doesn’t always mean better and that may not be what the company needs at all. It’s important to know the difference and understand what is needed to make the company thrive before choosing a software to make that happen. Ensuring the company is using the correct software is always step one. Without this step, the others are impossible and it would seem pointless to try moving forward.

Always be sure to purchase the software that’s best for the company and the driver. It’s also important to use the software as designed to ensure maximum performance. The more the company uses it, the better their chances are of growing business and having higher customer satisfaction rates. It’s always important to ensure maximum planning and software usage to keep the business growing in the right direction.

It’s time to make the choice. Is TMS right for the company? If so, which system will be best to make the business grow? Keep in mind that all TMS systems are not the same and what some programs lack, others have and those make it easy. Be sure to do the research and find a TMS that’s best for the company, the driver, and (by extension) the customer, or it could just mean the difference between growing the business or ending it; and no one wants to see that happen.

Comparing the Total Cost of Ownership of Electric Vs. Diesel Trucks

The Envase Team — Sat, 05 Feb 2022 19:37:00 +0000

In the past, diesel gas was the only option for fueling a big rig. Thanks to modern technologies, however, truckers may soon have another option: electric trucks. While battery-powered commercial trucks are not yet widely available, companies such as Tesla are coming close to a big debut. As electric trucks hit the market, trucking companies and owner-operators are wondering – which type has the best total cost of ownership (TCO)?

Truck makers are planning to launch electric models by 2020. Electric trucks aim to provide the same performance as diesel-fueled models, with the added advantages of lesser fuel costs and emissions. With proposed prices of around $150,000 [1], however, it can be difficult to weigh the TCO of an electric truck with a traditional diesel version. Here we take an in-depth look at the predicted TCO of electric trucks and compare them to the total costs of ownership for diesel trucks, to help those in the industry make smart future fleet decisions.

What Is Total Cost of Ownership?

Total cost of ownership, or TCO, is a financial estimate that helps owners determine the costs of a product or system. TCO provides a way to determine the total economic value of an investment. This allows owners to calculate returns on investment (ROI), internal rate of return, and economic value added. Calculating TCO takes looking at the total cost of item acquisition and lifetime operating costs, as well as what it will cost to replace or upgrade the item at the end of its lifespan.

TCO is an important part of the trucking industry. The total cost of ownership is a figure owner-operators need to know to conduct business. Calculating TCO gives a truck owner the ability to determine if a truck is a good investment, whether the company can afford to add to its fleet, and how much money to allot toward vehicle maintenance. Understanding TCO is vital to the success of the business. Otherwise, the trucking owner or company would not be able to make smart, data-backed business decisions.

Fleet management costs are increasing. A 2016 study of 3,000 fleet owners [2] proved this fact by comparing TCOs in 2016 vs. 2012. Stricter regulations, advanced technologies, and emissions mandates are contributing to the total costs of ownership for fleet managers. These costs will continue to increase for the foreseeable future. Combine this with the continuous driver shortage and many fleet managers are searching for ways to lower their future costs. Purchasing an electric truck may be a solution.

Breaking Down TCO in Trucking

In the transportation industry, the total cost of ownership is a calculation that helps trucking companies determine the complete costs of owning and operating a truck. TCO looks at both direct and indirect expenses relating to the truck during its useful life. A TCO analysis examines not only the price of the truck, but also its long-term costs over time. The analysis may consider the following variables:

Initial cost to purchase or lease the truck
Routine truck maintenance
Years of vehicle repairs and part replacement
North Equipment costs
Value of the truck when it’s time to sell
Price of fuel
Mileage per gallon

Calculating all the expenses related to purchasing and maintaining the truck per year will give you an annual cost of ownership. Dividing that by the number of miles the truck will drive will give you cost per mile. The average total cost of owning and maintaining a big rig is around $185,000 or more per year. Most of these costs are vehicle-based, while around one third pays the driver. The TCO of a traditional diesel truck will depend on the price of diesel fuel for the year. These prices fluctuate regularly.

TCO of an Electric Commercial Truck

One would calculate the total cost of owning an electric truck the same way as a diesel truck. However, there are many unknown factors involved, since electric transportation is a new industry. Calculating the TCO of an electric rig depends on facts released by the companies manufacturing the trucks. In a 2017 announcement [3] from Tesla, for example, the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Elon Musk, stated that its electric truck would be able to travel 500 miles per single battery charge and cost less to operate than diesel trucks.

Elon Musk stated the truck would cost around $1.26 per mile to operate. Compare that to the $1.51 per mile it takes to operate a traditional diesel truck, and operators are saving $0.25 per mile by going electric. However, many unknown factors [4] can change the average TCO of an electric truck. Vehicle life, residual vehicle value, recycling or salvaging the vehicle, battery issues, battery life, zero-emission regulations, and power problems are all examples of factors that can be difficult to predict. It is impossible to accurately gauge TCO, since electric semi-trucks are brand new to the world.

Using the Dana Costs of Ownership Calculator

In February 2019, Dana Incorporated announced its launch of a TCO calculator [5] to compare diesel and electric powertrain solutions. Dana Incorporated is a leader in performance and efficiency solutions for powered vehicles. The calculator can help owners easily compare the TCO between diesel and electric trucks. You can customize your fleet specifications and easily compare the estimated TCO between both options. Although the electric truck TCO amount is just a prediction, it can give buyers a good idea as to what to expect. Here’s how to use Dana’s tool:

Select whether you want to analyze the TCO of a diesel or electric vehicle. Choose diesel first to begin the comparison. Then, choose the vehicle application: regional hauler, drayage, city delivery, etc.
Customize your TCO information sheet. Select the vehicle’s average mileage per year, fuel costs, and miles per gallon. The tool will automatically calculate your annual cost of fuel as well as cost per mile.
Fill out your truck equipment costs. Personalize the initial price of the vehicle, its amortization (how many years you plan on having the truck), and an estimated resale value at the end of life. Again, the calculator will do the math for you to give an annual cost and cost per mile.
Add any other costs. The calculator then gives you the opportunity to add other costs, either per mile or annually. You can add the price of truck maintenance, insurance, taxes, and tolls.
Receive the total cost of ownership amount. Once you have filled out all elements of the TCO calculator, you will receive the total cost to operate the truck per mile, as well as the total annual cost. Multiply this number by the size of your fleet for total costs.

To compare the price of your diesel truck with an electric model, you can either go back to the calculator’s home page and resubmit the information under the “Electric” category or use the tool’s built-in comparison feature. Simply press “Compare Electric Costs” at the bottom of the calculator page to immediately see a comparison based on the average TCO of an electric truck. You will receive a page that directly compares the total annual cost and total cost per mile of a diesel vehicle vs. an electric vehicle. If you wish to modify the values of the electric vehicle, you can select this option and make your customizations.

How to Reduce the Costs of Ownership

Learning how to reduce the costs of ownership – no matter what type of truck you own – is important to your bottom line. Over the years, fleet managers have found ways to cut costs and increase overall profitability. Reducing costs is important if you wish to profit at all from your trucking company, due to low margins in the industry. The average truck owner-operator works at just a 5% profit margin [6]. The other 95% of income will go toward covering the costs of ownership. Adding to your profit takes adding revenue, cutting costs, or a combination of both.

Cutting down your costs of ownership is one of the fastest ways to increase profitability. While you cannot control factors such as fuel costs, you may be able to lower your operating costs elsewhere. First, break down your fixed and variable costs. Your fixed costs you may not be able to change, such as paying employees and making insurance payments. Variable costs, however, may be more flexible. Variable expenses can include food, maintenance, and fuel. Categorizing your costs can help you see where to save.

You may think extending the service life of your truck will lower your overall TCO. After all, the longer your truck remains operable, the better returns you will receive for your investment. This, however, is a common misconception. Extending service life could actually cost you more money than it saves. You may face more expensive maintenance costs, lesser fuel economy, the risk of an expensive breakdown, and a negative impact on resale value. If the older truck causes an accident, you could also face liability and a hit to your reputation.

Search for ways to save money other than extending the lifespan of your vehicle. Keeping up with truck maintenance to avoid more costly repairs and vehicle breakdowns can save money, even if you don’t plan on extending the life of your fleet. Check truck insurance quotes from different providers regularly to see if you can save. Cut down on per diem meal costs by setting a budget and sticking to it. You may be able to shop cheaper or bring more meals from home to curb your food spending habits on the road. Spend more nights in your sleeper berth than in hotel rooms.

If you are really in a bind, reduce the size of your fleet. Selling some of your vehicles is a proven way to reduce your overall costs. You can save the TCO of each vehicle you sell. Keep in mind, however, that the TCO of your remaining trucks might increase because of the increased workload required of them. You may also be able to save money by decreasing miles traveled, modifying driver behaviors, purchasing used trucks, and taking care of your vehicles for better resale values. Keeping your TCO down can help you increase overall profitability.

Is an Electric Truck Right for You?

Today, fleet owners are using TCO as a major factor in determining whether electric trucks will be successful. While many factors remain unknown, predictions show that the total cost of owning an electric truck will be less than that of a diesel truck. Estimates place the difference at about $0.15-$0.25 per mile. Operating an electric truck will be cheaper over time, even with a larger initial vehicle investment, thanks to the savings seen on fuel. Other benefits of electric truck ownership may include:

Fast charging times
Can haul the same weight as diesel trucks
No heavy components like a diesel truck (engine, transmissions, etc.)
Battery capacities will increase over time with new technologies
Tax breaks and grants available
Less maintenance than a diesel truck
Greater energy efficiency
More responsive to the operator
Safer than other semis – lower center of gravity
Better technology to prevent and avoid collisions
More comfortable interior designed specifically for the driver
Built-in connectivity and high-tech features (at least with Tesla)

Electric trucks are better for the environment and may be better for your wallet as a fleet manager. They cost less to run and maintain than diesel versions, although they cost more to acquire. If you want to stay on the cutting edge of trucking industry technology as an owner-operator, reserving an electric truck might be the solution. Experts predict many safety, health, environmental, and security benefits surrounding electric trucks.

Cons of an Electric Truck

Deciding whether to purchase an electric truck takes weighing the pros against the cons. The main downside of this investment is the upfront costs. Purchasing an electric truck will cost about twice the amount of a traditional diesel truck. This large price difference has made many fleet owners wary about making the investment. It costs between $5,000 and $20,000 to reserve an electric Tesla Semi. Purchasing the limited founders series semi requires the full $200,000 up front. Production will begin this year, for public debut of the trucks in 2020. The cons of buying electric may include:

Expensive initial acquisition costs
A lot of unknown variables in determining TCO
Not many charging stations available in the U.S.
Installing chargers requires significant infrastructure updates at a site
Can take hours to recharge
Using air conditioning and other applications could cut the range of the electric vehicle
Possibility of battery fires
Raw materials required for electric vehicle production could cause price fluxes
Climate can affect battery performance and range
Unknown truck lifespans and resale/recycle values

An electric truck could be cheaper to run and maintain than a diesel truck. Overtime, these costs benefits could add up to make the electric truck a better investment. However, large upfront costs are preventing many fleet managers from making the purchase. CEO of Paccar, Inc., Ron Armstrong, believes there won’t be widespread demand [7] for electric trucks until they are more economically feasible. Major companies such as Wal-Mart, Anheuser-Busch, JB Hunt, Meijer, and the United Parcel Service (UPS) have already preordered electric trucks.

TCO and the Future of Commercial Electric Semi-Trucks

A great deal of debate surrounds electric trucks. The North American Council for Freight Efficiency [8] outlines the ten most common arguments for and against electric trucks. Some arguments supporting electric trucks include cheaper maintenance, proven technology, and predictions for charging solutions in the future. Arguments against electric trucks voice concerns about high acquisition costs, the lack of support from the electric grid, and not enough charging ports available. All in all, however, TCO will play a major role in whether owner-operators decide to make the investment.

Although the true TCO of operating an electric truck remains to be seen, studies and estimates predict a lower overall TCO for an electric truck compared to diesel. The fuel savings and lower maintenance expenses are the main contributors to the better TCO. This fact might be enough for many fleet managers to take the leap despite many other unknown factors. A lower TCO means better profitability for owner-operators and trucking companies. However, owners will have to take many other factors into consideration when making their decision.

In an economy that has grown more and more difficult for trucking, a solution that could lower TCO is attractive for fleets of all sizes. Electric trucks may resolve many of the current issues owner-operators and trucking companies face. Switching from diesel to electric may cut costs, improve safety, reduce crash rates, and help companies adapt to modern transportation technologies. Purchasing an electric truck may be a smart move for the future.

On the other hand, reports predict [9] electric trucks will remain just a small part of the market until at least the early 2020s. High prices, low initial demand, and an adjustment period may mean these vehicles don’t truly hit the roads until five or more years from now. This gives companies time to calculate and compare TCOs, save money, and create a strategy for the future. The electrification of the transportation industry is inevitable, but no one can say the same for how widespread electric trucks will become. Keep your eye on this major trend as the first electric semi-trucks for consumers hit the market next year.

A Guide to Maximizing Your Fleet Management Data

The Envase Team — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 19:33:00 +0000

Why You Should Pay Attention to Your Fleet Management Data

You don’t have to manage your fleet in the dark. Management data can shed light on your operations, exposing weaknesses and illuminating opportunities for improvement. Knowing how to effectively leverage management data, however, is something with which many operations struggle. It takes using the right technologies to capture intelligence you can put to use to boost your bottom line and enjoy myriad other benefits.

Fleet management technology can gather the important data, help you measure what matters, and enable you to obtain greater value from your daily operations through smart changes. Investing in the right technology is the easiest and most effective way to constantly gather and use evolving fleet analytics.

Your data must be integrated and actionable for your business to enjoy real returns. If you’ve been ignoring fleet data, you are missing an enormous opportunity to boost efficiency, increase the safety of your fleet, save money, and much more. Get the most out of your fleet management data with a few proven tips.

What Is Fleet Management Data?

Fleet management data is a collection of pain points that relate to properly managing a shipping fleet. Data can provide insights into the state of truck maintenance, how much fuel a fleet is using, how long it takes to get from Point A to Point B, a trucker’s driving habits, leasing information, and more. It is the information a company needs to gauge its expenses, performance, and efficiency. Proper collection and analysis of fleet management data can optimize a fleet’s operations.

Why Is Collecting Fleet Management Data Important?

Fleet management data offers “incremental opportunities for improvement,” according to Dan Hannan,[1] an executive director at Merchants Fleet Management. Hannan says access to data isn’t enough, but that integrated technology is essential if one wishes to comprehend the opportunities for fleet improvement. He recommends, “integrated lease, fuel, maintenance, accident, and telematics data” for full use of fleet information. Mapping a strategy for data collection and fleet improvement is critical.

Fleet management software and data can help trucking companies effectively maximize their own value. However, many companies may be unaware of how to do so effectively. You must learn what types of data are worth collecting and how to use the information gathered to your advantage. Don Woods, the Client Information Systems department head at ARI, says: “Meaningful action and genuine cost savings can only be uncovered once you have the ability to not just see the data, but understand it as well.”

Utilizing fleet management data takes the right technologies. Partnering with a fleet technology group can connect you to all the resources and tools you need to collect and measure data points, make sense of the information, and use it to actually improve your operations. If you’re struggling to maximize your fleet management data, you are not alone. Senior product manager of Wheels Inc., Sara Sweeney, says [2]: “For many fleet managers, the volume of available data is overwhelming.” She and other industry experts agree that working with a knowledgeable technology partner is a powerful way to build a program that optimizes your fleet.

Benefits of Collecting Fleet Management Data

If you are new to fleet management data, you may not fully understand what you are missing without this type of intelligence. For years, fleet managers have been resolving their greatest issues with smart use of collected data. You can join their ranks and begin optimizing your operations from the ground up with the right data and software solutions. Telematics [3] (monitoring a fleet through GPS and onboard systems) can resolve numerous problems that may be preventing your fleet from reaching its fullest potential. The following are some of the benefits you can enjoy with smart use of fleet management data:

Improve your fleet’s safety performance
Avoid hours of service violations
Maximize fuel efficiency and save money
Reduce fleet management expenses
Proactively address fleet maintenance
Keep drivers happier
Identify actions needed to improve operations
Comply with industry regulations
Lower total costs of ownership
Boost driver retention
Learn new things about how your operation works

Fleet management data offers enormous potential. The last pain point, for example, is a major issue in trucking today. The trucking industry is suffering a critical driver shortage.[4] Retaining the drivers you do have is imperative to the future success of your fleet. Fleet management data has the power to improve driver retention [5] by attracting younger drivers, making life on the road easier, and giving drivers the comforts of home while working. This is just one example of the many different perks that can come with proper data collection and integration.

Common Fleet Management Data Challenges

The electronic logging device (ELD) mandate [6] introduced many companies to fleet management systems. If you are one of them, you may still be trying to understand the complexities that come with compliance. You might recognize the wealth of opportunity in fleet management data, but struggle with common challenges many other fleet operators face. Addressing common challenges can help you overcome obstacles that have prevented you from taking the next step.

One issue many face is an overload of data. A fleet can generate millions of data points. Dale Mottram, Merchants Fleet Management’s strategic consultant, says “Access to too much data can make it harder to identify key data elements that drive fleet costs and driver behavior.” Data may not mean much if you cannot effectively leverage it at your business. Maximize data by working with a partner that can help you focus on the right data points. Working with a technology partner can point out the most important data points for your organization, and align them with your goals.

Another challenge is knowing how to use the data to effect real change at an organizational level. It is one thing to recognize the importance of data for a business…it is another to actually know how to use it to improve operations. You may resolve this challenge, too, with the right data partner. The software system you depend on for data collection and interpretation can make it simple to institute changes based on real information about your company.

How to Maximize the Use of Fleet Management Data

How do you begin to make sense of the mountain of data that technology can collect from your fleet? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to take control of data to institute real, measurable results at your organization. Maximizing your fleet management data takes a smart strategy, recognizing your goals, and a partnership with the right technology group. The following steps will guide you through the process of making the most out of the data you collect:

Understand your mission. First, recognize and iterate your company’s goals, priorities, and overall mission. Your fleet goal may include optimizing safety and codes compliance, increase productivity, and reduce expenses. Analyze your organization and identify your main mission. This will make it easier to track the most relevant data points to match your goal.
Determine your KPIs. Key performance indicators, or KPIs, can help you manage your fleet according to what matters most. Your KPIs will change according to your overall goals. You may use cost-per-mile, fuel efficiency, and order-to-delivery times as KPIs for improving travel efficiency, for example.
Create a tailored fleet strategy. Using your identified goals, create a strategy that will enable you to control your overall expenses. Your strategy will be 100% unique based on your organization’s individual needs and goals. This should be an action plan with clear steps as to how to improve your operations. It will serve as the foundation for how to make sense of the incoming data.
Collect the right data. A smart data-driven business plan starts with collecting the right data. This can be difficult to do if you do not have a strong software program in place to help you make sense of the data you collect. Your software solution should break down collected data in a way that makes sense to you and your business.
Integrate telematics data. This step also requires a smart software solution. Your company doesn’t just need access to data, but a way to integrate the data in a way that helps you discover opportunities for improvement. You must integrate data about your fleet’s fuel, maintenance, safety, etc. according to your action plan.
Pick the right partner. If you have not partnered with a proven transportation technology company [7] at this point, do so. Big data may have big potential, but it will be as good as useless if you do not have a partner to help you collect and use the information. To achieve a meaningful impact on your fleet, use big data to its fullest potential with help from the right partner.
Build a program. Your knowledgeable partner can help you build a data-based program that can help your organization meet specific needs. Your partner can help you build tools for data analysis and reporting. It can also enhance your unique program to suit your individual needs. Utilize the expertise of your service provider to set up a dashboard and take other steps to make your software usable.
Look at historical data. Historical data from your organization can help you build an optimization strategy based on past trends. Create quarterly scorecards that gauge how well your fleet is performing. This will allow you and other leaders at the company to track performance and continue to create strategic initiatives for improvement.
Get data to work for you. Telematics grants you access to almost limitless information. As a potentially overworked and understaffed fleet manager, leveraging data is the only way you’ll truly benefit from information collection. Setting goals can allow you to identify the most important data points and collect data that can give you real solutions to your problems.
Enjoy the returns. Smart use of telematics can help your organization complete more jobs, maximize fuel efficiency, retain drivers, reduce engine hours, and enjoy many other benefits for the long haul. Knowing your business, identifying your goals, and working with the right partner can help you achieve long-term operational optimization.

Maximizing fleet management data takes a smart strategy. It also takes recognizing when it’s time to seek help. A transportation technology company will have smart software solutions that can help your organization easily and efficiently track and use big data. A partner can help you recognize the most important data points to track, prioritize your objectives, and get data in a workable format.

Top Data Points to Track

A few data points that are relatively surface level but can help beginners include driver behaviors, vehicle maintenance, and fuel consumption. These data points are fairly straightforward and can achieve fast financial impact. They can provide enough information to better train your drivers, prevent costly fleet repairs, and minimize fuel consumption to save on your bottom line. Other data points that may be important for your organization include:

Cost per mile
Cost per engine hour
Vehicle replacement rate
Preventive maintenance compliance
Idle time
Fleet diagnostics
Vehicle locations
Delivery estimated times of arrival (ETAs)

The data you will need to track depends on your specific goals. In general, however, fleet management data that provides insights into aggressive acceleration, speeding, idling, and other pain points is the most important for your bottom line. These are the pieces of information you can use to make real changes at an organizational level, such as training your drivers to perform with better efficiency in mind. This in turn will save your organization money on fuel and fleet maintenance costs.

Fleet Data Management Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

There is no one-size-fits-all fleet data management solution. Leveraging fleet data takes a customized strategy. To streamline your processes, minimize administrative burdens, and get data in a format that truly improves your organization, you need a personalized solution. Partnering with experts gives you the ability to individualize your software to suit your unique needs. Make sure the partner you choose has the ability to customize your solution based on your organization’s goals.

The Latest in Fleet Management Software Technology

The right transportation technology can transform your business. Transportation technology and fleet management data go hand in hand to positively impact your business. Fleet management data is the foundation on which your company can make educated decisions about how your fleet operates. The right technology can make data management simple by capturing the most important information about your business and providing insights into how you can improve. The following technologies can collect intelligence from your fleet and help you get the best value:

Intermodal management systems (IMS).[8] IMS is a software solution that offers end-to-end operational visibility. It is a holistic solution that grants easy access to all your operations in one convenient place. It is full of features that can help you offer better customer service and enjoy seamless scalability, including EDI, document imaging, offsite IT support, and 24/7 customer service with the right provider.
Cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS). Cloud-based software eliminates complex computer software management. It gives fleets the benefit of continuous optimization, with automatic updates and instant scalability. The right cloud-based SaaS system will have integrated tools to give you all the data you need, right in one easy-to-use interface.
Integrated updated rate engine. A rate engine, such as RateNet by GTG Technology Group, can reduce costs by quickly searching for the best prices and methods for each shipment. RateNet has all major ports and rail operations in its software, so it can provide a comprehensive check before you start a job. You’ll have all the data you need right in the software to make an educated decision.
Drayage management system.[9] A drayage interface can give you all the information you need for successful dray operations. The right solution can give you visibility into your entire operation for maximum efficiency. You can pay vendors, collect payments from clients, upload documents, select routes, and place track orders all in one simple interface. A drayage management system can make it easy to find the information you need.
Brokerage management system.[10] A truck brokerage management system can make carrier management more efficient, with end-to-end visibility and useful features. You can easily enter and manage orders, send invoices, manage contracts, schedule shipments, dispatch orders, and much more in a comprehensive brokerage management system. Your software will have all the features you need to get maximum value from your operations.

Advanced fleet technology has made it easier than ever to track, collect, and use the data that can make a real impact on your operations. Thousands of smart sensors can automatically upload insightful information about how your fleet operates, revealing areas that could use improvement for optimal efficiency. Data that was previously unavailable to fleet managers can now be at your fingertips. Investing in fleet management technology can grant you access to all the data you will ever need for optimal operations, as well as the tools to use it effectively.

GTG Technology Group Can Help You Maximize Fleet Management Data

GTG Technology Group[11] has years of experience in the transportation industry. Our technology team has the expertise to optimize your fleet, using cloud-based, all-inclusive software and real data solutions. Get the most out of your fleet with a comprehensive transportation management system that has been 10 years in the making. Easily maximize your use of fleet management data, all from a simple cloud-based interface. Let us show you how the right technology can transform your business.

How Self-Driving Trains May Impact the Transportation Industry

The Envase Team — Sat, 22 Jan 2022 17:46:00 +0000

Self-driving automobiles have been in the news a great deal lately. From Google’s car in California to the Chrysler 200 that can steer the car back into the correct lane, this technology is becoming more common at a rapid rate, and advances in technology don’t have to stop at passenger cars.

Other means of travel may be impacted by self-driving technology as well. For instance, we could soon see self-driving technology used in the rail industry. Though there would be benefits, there would likely be concerns about safety. Though we are still grabbling with questions about benefits and concerns, the technology isn’t slowing down. With driverless technology developing at such a rapid pace, a self-driven train may become a reality sooner than one would expect.

Let’s start with the most important question. When and how could self-driving trains impact the transportation industry? It seems it has already begun. Driverless trains have been a reality in many countries for years. From Dubai to London, countries and their rail industry are looking to capitalize on this latest technological advancement. Some have begun using self-driving trains in the transit systems, and others are beginning to use it for industrial purposes. As new technology is developed, it’s imperative all industries explore how the new could be applied to their businesses. The transport and rail industries are no exception. When one considers how much impact self-driving technology could have on the rail and other industries, it becomes clear that this technology is the future. And the sooner this can be infused into the rail industry, the better.

Driverless technology offers many potential benefits to the rail industry. Some of these include cost-savings, increased efficiency, and increased punctuality. But there are also quite a few concerns about how this could impact railway workers and passengers. Some also have safety fears, since the trains would be complete automated. This article will outline the potential benefits of self-driving trains, as well as concerns that have come to light since this technology has been implemented in other regions.

Download the full version of GTG Technology’s latest White Paper on How Self-Driving Trains May Impact the Transportation Industry.

How Increased Technology Will Help Driver Retention

The Envase Team — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 16:37:00 +0000

The trucking industry is one that will always be in need of new drivers. The very nature of supply and demand in this country creates an ever growing need for transportation and competent truckers. However, turnover rates have recently become a significant issue. The industry is already suffering from a driver shortage, and the increasing turnover rates have left some fleets drastically short-handed. Without an improvement, the shortage will grow to the point of having a significant impact on our economy. Almost 70% of our nation’s goods1 are shipped using trucks.

Our economy teeters on the edge of steep precipice. Unless efforts are made to replace the thousands of truckers needed, the economy may go over that edge. Thankfully, technology has entered the industry. The trucking industry has been given a wealth of technological advances over the past few years, and many think it may be a cure for the turnover rates – and consequently, the shortage.

Download the full version of GTG Technology’s latest White Paper on How Technology Will Help Driver Retention.

Containerization’s Impact on Intermodal Shipping and the Modern Global Economy

The Envase Team — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 16:20:00 +0000

Introduction

The use of containers in shipping irrevocably changed how goods were sent for trade, making the modern globalized economy possible. Their use is so widespread that nearly everyone is familiar with the iconic, boldly colored containers and the ships that ferry them across the seas. Yet many are still unfamiliar with the origins of this system, which arose out of the “intermodal” shipping concept in the late 18th century.

This document will provide an introduction to the concept of intermodal freight transport and how containerization made this the standard for all goods shipped around the world. Containerization offers the security, speed, reliability, and convenience that make multinational supply chains viable.

Download the full version of GTG Technology’s latest White Paper on Containerization.