Sygic Partners with Samsara to Enable GPS Navigation Solutions on the Connected Operations Cloud

Sygic Partners with Samsara to Enable GPS Navigation Solutions on the Connected Operations Cloud

March 11th, 2022 Sygic Leave a comment

Sygic, a global leader in navigation solutions, announced today an integration with Samsara, the pioneer of the Connected Operations Cloud, to optimize fleet operations and enhance the driver experience.

Samsara is uniquely positioned to transform the world of physical operations. Using the Connected Operations Cloud, tens of thousands of customers can visualize their physical operations in real-time on one integrated platform. The Samsara Driver App allows fleets to streamline the driver experience with features designed to maintain compliance, optimize dispatching, and boost productivity.

Customers can now launch Sygic Professional GPS Navigation routes directly from the Samsara Driver App with this integration. It provides a seamless user experience and ensures drivers make it safely and efficiently to their destinations with turn-by-turn navigation solely on routes compliant with the vehicle and its cargo.

Along with routing based on specifics, such as height, weight, the number of axles, and other vehicle parameters, the Sygic Professional GPS Navigation solution also respects emission zones and HAZMAT restrictions. Map data is stored locally on the device, so drivers can always depend on the navigation, even in areas with weak or no connection. Additional features, such as lane assistance, live traffic, disabled left turns, and more, help protect drivers and avoid risky situations on the road.

“We are thrilled to have our Sygic solution listed on the Samsara App Marketplace. This integration enables customers to launch Sygic routes with a single touch via the Samsara Driver App. This brings fleet dispatchers peace of mind and confidence when planning their transportation schedules – knowing they can rely on market-leading features already trusted by over 3,000 fleets and 3 million drivers,” said Miroslav Remecky, Chief Commercial Officer at Sygic.

“As digital workflows and mobile technologies become increasingly important for drivers on the road, it’s critical to ensure intuitive tools to do their work safely and efficiently,” explained Chris Mozzocchi, Senior Director of Product Management, Product, and Ecosystem Integrations at Samsara. “We’re excited to be partnering with Sygic to provide the best possible driver experience for our customers and enable them to make the most of their mobile applications.”

Sygic Professional GPS Navigation is available on the Samsara App Marketplace at: www.samsara.com/resources/marketplace/sygic/

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ABOUT SYGIC

Founded in Bratislava, Slovakia, in 2004, Sygic is a Deloitte Fast 50 Company and, in 2012, was added to Deloitte’s Fast 500 EMEA listing. In 2009, Sygic produced the first-ever turn-by-turn navigation app for the iPhone. The company was the first offline navigation vendor supporting Apple CarPlay Connectivity and Google’s Android Auto. Sygic GPS Navigation as the most popular Sygic app has reached over 200 million downloads worldwide. The real-time Traffic Lights add-on for Sygic GPS Navigation has been awarded by the jury of leading technology experts as a top CES 2020 innovation.

The company is a member of the CharIN Association advocating for one universal charging standard – Combined Charging System (CCS) – and the leader in the electric mobility segment. Thanks to Electric Vehicle mode in Sygic GPS Navigation and other solutions, Sygic was honoured by a Global Champion Award 2021 for its contribution to a sustainable and innovation-driven emerging Europe.
Sygic’s solutions are navigating more than three million professional drivers and 2,000 fleets globally. The majority shareholder of Sygic is W. A. G. Payment solutions (known as Eurowag), which is one of the fastest-growing integrated payments and mobility platforms in Europe.

ABOUT SAMSARA

Samsara is the pioneer of the Connected Operations Cloud, which allows businesses that depend on physical operations to harness IoT (Internet of Things) data to develop actionable business insights and improve their operations. Samsara operates in North America and Europe and serves tens of thousands of customers across various industries, including transportation, wholesale and retail trade, construction, field services, logistics, utilities and energy, government, healthcare and education, manufacturing, and food and beverage. The company’s mission is to increase the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the operations that power the global economy.

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8 Commonly Overlooked Maintenance Tasks in Modern Truck Fleets

February 22nd, 2022 Dylan Berger Leave a comment

Maintenance is a crucial part of managing any fleet. Professionals know this going into the industry, and regular repair schedules are a standard part of most fleets’ operations, but many may not be thorough enough.

While most fleet managers understand the importance of changing their oil and rotating their tires, other maintenance tasks go overlooked. Here are eight commonly overlooked processes that should have a spot in every maintenance checklist.

1. Checking Brake Pads

Checking brake pads to ensure they have proper thickness is a standard part of many maintenance checks. However, commercial fleets often don’t check them frequently enough.

Since long-haul trucks are 20 to 30 times heavier than average passenger vehicles, they require far more force to stop. As a result, their brake pads wear out faster than even large consumer vehicles, requiring more frequent replacements. Many brake pads can also be difficult to see on a vehicle with multiple axles, so it’s easy to skim over this process.

Commercial fleet repair professionals frequently see truck brakes worn down to the brake caliper. Considering how much costlier caliper replacements are compared to brake pads, fleets should check their brakes more often.

2. Battery Testing

Another maintenance task that often goes overlooked in commercial fleets is battery testing. While most maintenance stops include checking to ensure electronic components are working correctly, they don’t check the battery itself. This is insufficient, as there are often no external warning signs of battery life draining until it’s entirely dead.

While truck batteries last several years, long-haul shipments can take their toll on this equipment faster than some may expect. For example, vibrations break down internal battery components, so traveling over miles of roads in poor condition will deteriorate batteries. To avoid any unplanned downtime, every maintenance check should involve testing batteries and, if necessary, replacing them.

3. Considering Idle Time

Any fleet manager or driver knows the importance of changing their trucks’ oil. However, many fleets may take too long to check and change their oil because they don’t consider truck idling time.

While newer vehicles can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes, driving isn’t the only thing that works the engine. Spending a significant amount of time idling, as most commercial trucks do, also wears out the engine and its oil. Despite this degradation, many fleets overlook it because they go by what the odometer says, which doesn’t account for idling.

To account for idle time, fleets should change their oil more frequently than they would normally. Frequent checks can help determine when oil changes should happen. Internet of things (IoT) sensors can provide even more insight, alerting drivers and managers when to change their oil.

4. Preventing Corrosion on Underride Guards

Another maintenance task that’s easy to overlook is checking for rust on underride prevention guards. Since these parts don’t actively affect a truck’s performance, they often don’t come to mind when inspecting components for corrosion. Despite that, enough corrosion could make them weak, ultimately not preventing underride accidents if a crash occurs.

Workers should always inspect underride guards closely to ensure they’re not corroding, including looking at their underside and back. If there’s some rust, workers can use a biodegradable, non-acid-based rust remover. Acid removers can be expensive and cause disposal problems, so it’s best to avoid them.

5. Refrigerated Trailer Maintenance

Fleets that use refrigerated trailers should also be careful not to overlook their refrigeration systems. If these trailers start to fail, they could lead to spoiled products, costing companies thousands and costing fleets their reputations. This maintenance can also be easy to forget about since refrigerated trailers carry unique concerns that may not be immediately apparent.

Moisture can break down insulating materials faster than normal, so teams must check for leaks and moisture inside the trailer. Similarly, they should look for any punctures or tears in the walls and ensure the trailer doors seal properly. IoT temperature sensors can help inform these inspections, alerting workers of irregular fluctuations or rising internal temperatures.

6. Testing Collision Sensors

Many newer trucks come with sensors to detect potential collisions and keep drivers aware of their surroundings. Things like automatic braking and lane departure warning have significantly reduced collisions, so they’re becoming increasingly popular. As drivers rely more heavily on these systems, fleets must ensure they work properly.

The sensors themselves are the most important part to check with these systems. If they get dirty, misaligned or broken, they may not detect what they’re supposed to accurately, potentially leading to crashes. Consequently, every maintenance stop should include checking these sensors to ensure they’re safe.

Cleaning sensors and cameras will help them achieve maximum accuracy. Workers can also pull diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the truck’s onboard computer to see if there are any issues.

7. Looking for Leaks in Fluid Hoses

Most maintenance stops involve checking all of a vehicle’s fluids. Part of that inspection that may go overlooked is checking the fluid hoses, not just the reservoirs. A truck may have plenty of coolant, wiper fluid, oil or other fluids, but a dipstick test may not reveal smaller leaks in the hoses that could cause problems down the line.

Fluid checks should go beyond measuring levels with a dipstick. Even if these tests reveal a reservoir is full, maintenance workers should check under the truck to see if any hoses have leaks. If they do, they should replace them immediately, as even a small leak could cause substantial problems after a long drive.

8. Downloading Software Updates

Today’s trucks are technological marvels featuring a wide array of digital technologies. Since this abundance of technology is a relatively new trend, many fleets forget that proper maintenance now includes some IT considerations. More specifically, fleets must ensure all of their trucks’ onboard software is up-to-date.

Some devices may have an option to automatically download updates, which fleets should enable. If that’s not available, drivers should regularly check for updates and download them as soon as they’re available. If one driver notices a new update, they should inform the whole fleet to everyone can ensure their trucks feature the latest software.

Since 86% of commercial fleets today use telematics, they should apply this to these devices as well. Any IoT devices need regular software updates to stay safe from cybercrime and reach optimal performance.

Don’t Overlook These Maintenance Steps

Maintenance is one of the most important parts of running a fleet. While these eight steps are not the only parts of a sufficient maintenance stop, many fleet managers overlook them, leading to unnecessarily high costs and risks. Incorporating these tasks into maintenance schedules will keep fleets efficient and safe.

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Successfully Financing a Truck Fleet: 7 Strategies

February 18th, 2022 Dylan Berger Leave a comment

Getting any business off the ground can be challenging, and truck fleets carry unique obstacles. The average cost of a new vehicle hit a record high in late 2021, and long-haul trucks were already expensive. High insurance rates and maintenance needs further add to the list of expenses.

Thankfully, new fleet owners don’t need to pay for all these factors upfront. Several financing options exist, and which one is the best depends on a company’s specific situation. Here’s a look at seven strategies and who they benefit the most.

1. Bank Loans

The most straightforward financing option for truck fleets is to get a loan from the bank. Large banks may seem intimidating, but many partner with the Small Business Association (SBA) to offer more accessible loans for startups. SBA-backed loans can reach up to $5.5 million and often come with lower payments and fairer terms.

Fleet owners should understand that loan terms vary widely among banks, even with SBA-backed loans. Looking into and comparing available options is a crucial part of the process.

Bank loans may offer some of the most capital, but their approval processes are typically longer and stricter. As a result, they’re best for business owners with good credit who can afford to wait months before getting the money.

2. Alternative Lenders

Institutions other than banks and credit unions offer business loans. Alternative lenders provide rates comparable to most banks and often feature faster approval processes.

Many alternative lending companies offer industry-specific loans that may fit fleets’ unique needs better than banks. Some of these also feature more flexible terms and payment options. However, the amount of capital these loans provide is often not as high as what fleets would get from a bank.

Alternative lenders are typically smaller companies, so they may be more risk-aversive than traditional institutions. Consequently, they’re often better for fleet owners with high credit scores. Some may target those with poor credit, but it’s important to inspect these terms closely to make sure they’re not misleading.

3. Direct Truck Loans

Another loan option is to work with a direct trucking lender. These companies specialize in offering loans to commercial fleets, so they have a more intimate understanding of the industry and its requirements.

Fleet financing companies often have decades of experience, so they’ll be able to understand unique situations. Unlike traditional financial institutions, they lend their own money, making them more flexible than banks. At the same time, that means they may also offer less competitive interest rates.

Direct truck loans may be best for fleets with unique concerns or poor credit histories. They may be a reliable option for all companies, as long as their rates hold up against the competition. Be sure to compare them to other options to find the best deal.

4. Leasing

Fleets don’t have to buy their equipment outright, either. Leasing trucks instead of buying them can be a helpful way to finance a fleet since this entails smaller upfront payments. It also means companies can upgrade their vehicles quickly and with minimal investment.

Fleets can also buy out of their leases once they become comfortable with their vehicles and the current market. This may come with high costs depending on the leasing term, but refinancing options can help.

Leasing is particularly attractive to new players in the industry, as it provides quick, affordable access to top-of-the-line equipment. However, buying trucks outright may be better for companies that want more flexibility or control.

5. Franchising

Truck fleets could also adopt a franchise business model. In these arrangements, owner-operators pay a franchising fee and a portion of their profits but operate with relative independence.

The most significant advantage of this business model is that it reduces costs. Owner-operators must pay their own fuel bills and take care of maintenance. However, that also means franchisors have less control over vehicle types, maintenance and driving regulations.

Most owner-operators prefer to work with an established name, so startup fleets may not succeed with this model. Profits may be slimmer, too, as franchisors only receive a portion of franchisees’ revenue. Still, it can be an attractive option for fleets that have been in the industry for a while. It may be especially appealing for those that are looking to expand.

6. Invoice Factoring

Loans, equipment costs and business models aren’t the only ways to improve a fleet’s finances. Collecting outstanding payments can be a challenge for trucking companies, especially when they’re new. Payment for trucking invoices takes 36.9 days on average, limiting fleets’ financial mobility. Invoice factoring streamlines the process.

Factoring brokers act as an intermediary between clients and fleet owners. The broker will give fleets an advance on their payment, taking a fee of around 3%-5% in return. This lowers fleets’ overall income, but it can provide almost instant payment, helping them address expenses sooner.

Factoring can be particularly valuable to new fleets, as it enables more fiscal mobility. Faster payments allow companies can expand more rapidly. However, the associated fees may limit this growth.

7. Quick Pay

Quick pay is a similar solution that many brokers offer. Like factoring, this provides faster payments, but it comes from load brokers themselves, not financial services companies.

Choosing this option often means brokers will pay fleets in a week or less instead of the standard 37 days. That’s not as immediate as factoring, but it’s far faster than traditional payment options and provides similar mobility benefits. Quick pay also usually entails a small fee, similar to what a factoring company would charge.

Quick pay removes the intermediaries of factoring, but it doesn’t offer many advantages beyond that. Fleets should compare their options to see which offers the best rates for their specific situation.

Truck Fleets Have Many Financing Options

Financing a truck fleet can be intimidating at first, considering the high upfront and operational costs. These expenses can be high, but the abundance of options in the market today makes them far more approachable. Fleets should determine their budget and compare their available local opportunities to find the best way forward.

Fleets can use one or more of these strategies to become mobile and start serving clients with minimal expenses. They can then fully capitalize on this long-standing and growing industry.

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Reducing Incidents of Impaired Driving in the Trucking Industry

February 12th, 2022 Dylan Berger Leave a comment

Trucking can be a dangerous profession, and impaired driving makes it needlessly more so. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are a danger in any vehicle, but especially in a 17-ton semi-truck. Fleet managers must reduce impaired driving incidents in their fleets in light of this danger.

No fleet manager would argue against the need to eliminate impaired driving incidents. However, the path toward that goal can be less clear. The dangers are immediately evident, but it can be harder to determine which remediation strategies are most effective.

The State of Impaired Driving in Trucking

Thankfully, drunk driving incidents are far less common in truck drivers than among ordinary passenger vehicles. While 20.6% of drivers in passenger cars involved in fatal crashes were above the legal limit in 2017, just 2.5% of truck drivers were. However, that figure rises to 3.6% when considering truck drivers who had alcohol in their system but weren’t above the legal limit.

Drug use is a more common factor in impaired driving among truck drivers. Over-the-counter medication accounted for 17% of fatal and injury crashes among commercial drivers. While many of these medicines aren’t inherently dangerous, they may make drivers drowsy or unattentive, putting them at risk.

Impaired driving may not be a frequent issue for fleets, but considering how dangerous it is, just one incident is one too many. With that in mind, here are five ways fleet managers can reduce these incidents.

Implement Strict Policies

One of the most effective methods is also one of the most straightforward. Stricter impaired driving policies discourage these incidents, as heavier consequences provide more motivation to avoid unsafe behavior. Drunk driving laws reflect this, as DUI fatalities have trended downward as regulations have become stricter.

Fleet managers can apply this concept by establishing harsher penalties for incidents surrounding impaired driving. Ideally, these policies should be tighter than local laws, imposing sanctions for lower blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. Actions that break the law should result in termination, and smaller offenses should still carry consequences like temporary suspensions.

It’s also important to formalize these policies and communicate them early and often. The more drivers are aware of these actions and their penalties, the less likely they will engage in them. Management should also enforce these rules evenly to solidify their stance on their gravity.

Install Ignition Interlocks

Technology can also be a helpful resource in reducing impaired driving incidents. The most useful technology fleets can use is ignition interlocks, which require drivers to pass a BAC test to start their engines. Studies show that programs reduce repeat drunk driving offenses by 50% to 90% after installing these devices.

Ignition interlocks can take several forms, too. Some use traditional BAC tests that drivers blow into, and these may provide the most accurate readings. Other systems use passive sensors that detect alcohol vapors in the air. These are less disruptive but may not be as precise.

Fleet managers should also use ignition interlocks to measure data and track trends related to impaired driving. Even if someone is below the legal limit and can thus drive, their readings can show trends in alcohol consumption. Managers can then notice when a driver may be at risk and take appropriate intervention steps.

Monitor Impairment Risk in Hiring

Fleet operators can also reduce impaired driving by looking for risk signals in the hiring process. Hiring managers should perform background checks to look for any past impaired driving incidents. This should apply to more than just DUIs, including crashes where alcohol was present but below legal limits.

Past driving behavior is often a reliable indicator of how someone will act in the future. One study found that 20.7% of truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had a record of previous accidents. Past incidents of drug and alcohol use could likewise make an applicant more at-risk of driving while impaired.

Hiring managers should ask applicants about their history if any crash or substance abuse-related records come up. Some drivers may have made substantial strides and improved from past mistakes. Where fleets draw the line is up to the individual company’s discretion and ability to accept risk.

Improve Education

It can also help to ensure employees understand the risks of impaired driving. Drivers are likely already aware that they shouldn’t drive drunk but may feel like having a few drinks before driving isn’t a big deal. Fleet managers should educate drivers on how dangerous this can be to encourage safer behavior.

These sessions should focus on the less obvious factors, such as over-the-counter medications causing drowsiness. Point to figures like how BAC levels as low as 0.015% can impair hand-eye coordination by 20%. It may also help to stress how these factors impact the drivers’ personal safety to make it more resonant.

These training sessions should occur during onboarding and at regular intervals after. Educating employees and offering the latest facts and statistics at least once annually can help them retain this information. When they better understand the risks, they’ll be less likely to engage in dangerous behavior.

Minimize Related Risk Factors

Fleet managers can avoid impaired driving incidents by preventing situations that lead to them. Most drivers probably won’t drink on the job, but some circumstances could change that.

Professional drivers are especially vulnerable to having mental health issues like stress. This could lead them to drink or take medication when they otherwise wouldn’t, leading to impaired driving. Fleet managers can mitigate this risk by reducing on-the-job stress.

Improved route planning can help by making drivers feel less rushed, and keeping them informed of any changes has similar effects. Flexible schedules can also reduce stress by making it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Fleet managers could also survey their drivers to see what would help them feel less strained, reducing the risk of impaired driving.

Reducing Impaired Driving Is a Must for Fleet Managers

Impaired driving may seem like a straightforward issue at first, but it can be multifaceted. Likewise, multiple prevention strategies should be used to attain the greatest risk reduction.

Fleet managers that employ these five steps can create safer operations for their drivers and others on the road. They can then prevent injury, ensure timely deliveries and avoid hefty legal consequences.

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

101 Trailer Tracking Tips From the Experts

January 14th, 2022 Matt Krysiak Leave a comment

Fleet management today requires careful oversight of facilities, vehicles, drivers, and cargo trailers. Since trucks are often on the road for long periods of time, many companies are using fleet management systems to monitor the routes and status of each vehicle. In addition, Yard Management Systems (YMS) can help control the efficiency of each loading area or warehouse. In order to develop a comprehensive trailer tracking and fleet management plan, it’s a good idea to review best practices that have proven effective for other carriers.

It’s always essential to keep compliance in mind when developing trailer tracking and fleet management plans. That includes ensuring that all trailers have rating plates and data plates compliant with applicable transportation industry regulations from the Department of Transportation and other regulatory agencies. Choose a durable data plate material such as Metalphoto® anodized aluminum to ensure that your vehicles’ rating plates remain readable even when exposed to the harsh outdoor conditions in which your vehicles operate.

In this post, we’ll share 101 top trailer tracking tips collected from experts within the industry. You will find an excellent mix of ideas that cover technology, processes, common challenges, and emerging innovations. We hope you’re able to find a few relevant practices that can have a positive impact on your trucking and trailering operations. We’ve organized these tips according to the 5 categories below for easy browsing:

–Benefits of Effective Trailer Tracking

-Tips for Choosing the Best Trailer Tracking Technology

-Trailer Tracking Hardware Tips

-Yard Management Tips

-Best Practices for Effective Trailer Tracking

Benefits of Effective Trailer Tracking

1. Improved Asset Utilization. “Trailer tracking systems help you to improve asset utilization as well as protect them from theft. The telematics technology helps you to understand precisely how your assets are being used because you have full visibility over trailer locations, door openings, temperature changes, what the load capacity is, and plenty more. You can, therefore, get a better sense of the day-to-day productivity and efficiency of your asset utilization, without having to check trailers manually.” – Jackson Hand, Benefits of Trailer Tracking for Your Business, Verizon Connect; Twitter: @VerizonConnect

2. Asset Security and Recovery. “To start with, with a good GPS asset tracking system in place, a fleet manager can know where each trailer is at all times. Assets stop disappearing. Whether they’re out on the road or in the yard, they can be instantly located. This makes for much greater security. Additionally, whenever audits are required to verify assets, GPS tracking will show that they do indeed exist, and exactly where they are.” – Bruce Boyers, Benefits of GPS trailer tracking, KeepTruckin; Twitter: @KeepTruckinInc

3. Maintain Fleet Visibility With Partners. “Though many fleets use telematics in their own vehicles, some trucking companies rely on independent owner-operator contractors to complete a portion of their hauling. This can put fleet managers in a tough spot if the contracted trucks don’t have vehicle tracking in place, especially when employees or customers rely on this type of visibility. To remedy this, fleets can simply use their own GPS trailer tracking solution as a stand-in in the scenario that a contractor doesn’t have vehicle tracking software or simply partners with a different provider.” – Ashley Mrozek, 4 Key Benefits GPS Trailer Tracking Provides Fleets, Samsara; Twitter: @Samsara

4. Third Party Logistics Support. “Reduce supply chain shrinkage, monitor where and when your pallets, cargo, parcels or items are removed from your trailers. We can work with you to automatically detect if cargo has been removed at a location other than its destined delivery address by correlating drop off points with delivery schedules.” – GPS trailer tracking Delivering Real ROI, TrailerTrailers

5. Streamlined Trailer Maintenance. “Maintenance scheduling which is planned routinely by time period, and not based on actual trailer use causes unnecessary trailer downtime. By monitoring actual trailer use maintenance is cheaper and more efficient. A fleet owner can achieve a reduction of 35% in maintenance costs which can amount to around €17,500 for a fleet of 500 trailers.” – The advantages of trailer tracking for fleet management, Route42

6. Improved Incident Response Times. “If a truck breaks down and the trailer has to be switched onto another rig, you can manage this much easier with GPS tracking. You must prepare your business for emergencies of all sizes and possibilities. You’ll know the precise map location of a trailer, be able to dispatch another driver, and have the delivery back in transit as soon as possible. By knowing where every driver is, which trailers are available, and who can pick up cargo, you can resolve situations much faster than if you had to manually call for assistance.” – Josh Wienman, 3 Benefits Of GPS Trailer Tracking, In News Weekly; Twitter: @innewsweekly

7. Transparent Monitoring and Tracking. “Transparent monitoring is one of the big reasons why businesses should install a trailer tracking solution in their fleet, but it’s not the only one. The ability to track trailers, as well as other commercial vehicles reduces the chances of unauthorized use, theft, and promotes better utilization of assets.” – Sarang Pharate, 5 Key Things You Should Know About Trailer Tracking Solutions, IoT For All; Twitter: @iotforall

8. Quicker Recovery of Stolen Assets. “Not only can GPS tracking devices help with identifying where the stolen goods are, but they can also provide necessary information for the authorities for investigation and relocation of the merchandise. A process that can otherwise be long, complicated, and costly. Most importantly, they can prevent and stop thefts before they happen by giving fleet managers complete control and visibility of their trailers and assets.” – Elizabeth Pare, The Importance of GPS Trailer Tracking, Anytrek; Twitter: @AnytrekCorp

9. A Reduction in Insurance-Related Costs. “Most of the prominent insurance corporations out there have come to see how important GPS fleet tracking can be and are all strongly advocating for its implementation. In most scenarios, trailers that have GPS devices can have their insurance premiums decreased from ten percent to as much as thirty percent. Insurance providers are looking at GPS tracking as a reliable option. One of the reasons being it can quickly find out when vehicles have changed their route and immediately alert the supervisors.” – The 5 Proven Benefits of GPS Tracking Your Fleet of Tractor Trailers, Lonestar Tracking; Twitter: @LoneStarTrackin

10. Identify Trends Using Analytics. “By applying analytics to GPS tracking data, you can spot operational trends and take action to correct or continue them as appropriate. For example, you might see that one of your locations appears to have a trailer shortage while another has trailers sitting idle. If that is the case, you can reallocate resources to resolve the issue.” – How GPS Tracking Improves Trailer Fleet Management, Boxwheel Trailer Leasing; Twitter: @boxwheel

11. A Reduction in Manual Paperwork. “Trailer tracking uses GPS technology with cloud-based applications that keep a record of everything. The information is organized and stored in the cloud and can be accessed via any mobile device at any point in time. It’s time-saving, cost-effective, as well as environment-friendly. It also eliminates the chances of loss or any discrepancy, as the data is recorded in real time.” – Emma Pauline, Trailer Tracking – Important Things To Know, Matrack; Twitter: @matrackinc

12. Automated Alerts and Updates. “These features keep you up-to-date with each and every trailer in your fleet. This means you can customize alerts on how often you would like to receive them. For instance, an update on the trailer’s movement every six hours, every 8-hours, or even after a whole 24-hours.” – Trailer GPS Monitoring Benefits & Features, Wireless Links; Twitter: @wirelesslinksnj

13. Optimized Trailer Capacity. “With a manual logging system, it is hard to make a waterproof system that tells you exactly how your trailer fleet is used. Errors easily slip in and you struggle to have a full overview of your trailers. A solution in place will help you understand the use-rate on your fleet. In other words, it will provide you with reports and alerts for the allocation, rotation, and retention of your trailers.” – Trailer tracking: What and how?, Sensolus; Twitter: @sensolus

14. Comprehensive Fleet Mapping. “Make sure your GPS tracking system gives you that ability to view all of your trailers on a single map, including their location history. Knowledge is power and the more information you have, the better able you will be to manage your valuable assets.” – 7 Features to Look For in a GPS Trailer Tracker, GPS Trackit; Twitter: @gpstrackit

15. Decreased Loading and Unloading Times. “Loading and unloading trailers can be a time-consuming logistical nightmare. A trailer utilization solution can help you pin-point the exact cause of inefficiencies so you can make changes to your operational processes and save valuable time.” – The 10 Big Benefits of a Trailer Utilization Solution, CloudHawk; Twitter: @CloudHawk

16. Track Events Within The Trailer. “With the use of trailer tracking devices comes the opportunity to track numerous pieces of information, including door open/close events, trailer temperatures in refrigerated trucks, trailer power status, and more.” – Brian Dziuk, 3 Reasons to Use a GPS Trailer Tracking Solution (+ Top Devices), Rastrac; Twitter: @Rastrac_GPS

17. Highly Scaleable For Future Needs. “If you’re more experienced with telematics, you’ll know how important it is that you find a solution that can be configured to your needs and, more important, is scalable and can grow along with the size and the changing operational realities of your fleet. With the availability of cost-effective trailer tracking solutions, there is little reason why trailers should remain the forgotten asset, and, instead, be top-of-mind as your fleet fulfills its daily mission to serve its customers.” – Tracking the Forgotten Asset: Using Technology to Improve Trailer Management, GPS Insight; Twitter: @gpsinsight

18. Optimized Route Planning. “Today’s tracking systems, via their onboard modules, calculate routes on the go and continuously, taking into account unexpected issues such as traffic jams. These real-time GPS trackers are able to recalculate each route and ETA with fine-tuned precision, thereby reducing the total distance travelled, limiting transportation costs and improving delivery visibility for customers.” – How GPS tracking benefits the bottom line, Trailermatics; Twitter: @Trailermatics

19. Control Vehicle Movements With Geofencing. “When shipping high-value, high-risk and time-sensitive freight (such as medical devices, high-end electronics, smartphones and banking documents), the ability to track every move the trailer makes is vital. Carriers with geo-fencing technology can monitor a trailer’s location every step of the way, ensuring the equipment doesn’t stray from the pre-determined route or go unnoticed if it does. If for some reason it exits the invisible barrier, the carrier can quickly contact the driver to determine why and take the appropriate action. Geo-fencing technology gives shippers a more secure experience and more on-time deliveries.” – Paige Brooks, The Importance of Geo-fencing Technology in the Trucking Industry, ArcBest; Twitter: @ArcBestCorp

20. Track Staff and Truck Work Histories. “Maintaining effective control of a team of mobile workers and their associated vehicles and equipment is critical to the success of any business. Without firsthand knowledge of the real-time and historical activities of your people and equipment, your operations staff is basically blindfolded.” – Rover TT GPS Trailer Tracking, FQWireless: Twitter: @fqwireless

Tips for Choosing the Best Trailer Tracking Technology

21. Choose Which Monitoring You Require. “As you decide between GPS fleet trackers, you’ll need to consider what metrics you want to track. While you can expect GPS trackers to monitor your assets and vehicles’ locations, you may want to receive more information about your fleet. Some trackers can let you know the temperature of a cargo hold, provide information on the vehicle’s performance or send reports about driver safety.” – What GPS Tracking Device Is Right for Your Fleet?, Track Your Truck; Twitter: @TrackYourTruck

22. Does The Device Report Data Consistently. “If you’re not consistently gathering data, your trailer tracking ROI goes out the window. Still, many suppliers have products where as much as 15% of trailer telematics devices aren’t reporting. That’s a giant data gap that makes it hard to get the most out of a trailer tracking solution.” – Luke Roney, 5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Trailer Tracking Solution, EROAD; Twitter: @EroadGlobal

23. Focus on the Overall Value of the System. “Price is important, but value is the ultimate measure. Most often, clients have a whole array of mobile assets alongside their trailers, whether it’s trucks, vans or company cars, or even other kinds of high-value assets. You’d be better off (over the long term) considering suppliers that can meet all of your fleet management needs now and in the foreseeable future.” – 3 Key Factors For Choosing the Right Trailer Tracking Solution, MiX Telematics; Twitter: @MiXTelematics

24. Review All the Technology Factors That Affect Cost. “When it comes to deciding on a trailer tracking system, many factors are at play, and most of them affect cost. For example, if real-time tracking isn’t critical to your fleet, a money-saving option may be to choose a battery-powered system that sends back location reports on an hourly basis, or even less frequently.” – Jeff Miller, What is trailer tracking and why do you need it?, KeepTruckin; Twitter: @KeepTruckinInc

25. Consider After-Sales Service Support. “When you buy your first trailer GPS tracker, things should not stop there. You need to make sure that the makers offer technical support should you need it. This technical support can be in the form of email, live chat online or even a direct phone call. The people working in the tech team are very knowledgeable when it comes to the products and are in a position to answer any questions or queries you may have regarding managing your device.” – Features To Look For When Buying GPS Trackers, Lonestar Tracking; Twitter: @LoneStarTrackin

26. Pursue Temperature Data Loggers for Refrigerated Trailer Loads. “When transporting perishable goods, your reputation depends on product quality. Food spoilage accounts for $35 billion in losses and 1.3 billion tons of waste, with about 12 percent of this waste coming from changes in room temperature. When food spoils on the truck, it hurts your reputation, but more importantly, it hurts your customers’ businesses. This is why temperature data loggers can be the difference between several hundred pounds of food spoilage and peace of mind.” – A Comprehensive Guide to Tracking Your Trailer Loads, Samsara; Twitter: @Samsara

27. Look for Geofencing Capabilities. “Geofencing is an incredibly important feature to have because it can allow you to see if the trailer or assets go outside of the boundaries of where they are supposed to be. This can help in a few different ways. For one thing, this can help you recover a trailer if it was stolen. It can also help to determine if an accident happened, allowing you the time you need to get help and another truck to continue the delivery. Lastly, this can help you see if your drivers are staying on the route they are supposed to.” – How to Select the Best Trailer Tracking Devices for Cold Chain Location and Conditions Monitoring, Eelink; Twitter: @e2link

28. Choose from External, Battery, or Solar Powered Devices. “Also, trailer tracking devices must be externally powered (for powered or motorized trailers), or powered by batteries or solar cells (for non-powered or non-motorized trailers). The only other device needed to track your fleet’s trailers is a Web-connected smartphone, tablet, or computer to access the trailer tracker software.” – Justin Schmid, FAQ: Your Top 6 GPS Trailer Tracker Questions, GPS Insight; Twitter: @gpsinsight

29. Motion Sensing Capabilities Can Improve Battery Life. “Your trailer tracking solution should do more than mark a spot on a map. Rover TT monitors movements with motion-sensing capabilities. Fleet owners can track cargo movements in their trailers, protecting valuable assets against theft and employee ‘side jobs.’ Motion-sensing capabilities can also increase battery conversation, with the option to program the device accelerometer to wake from its power saving ‘sleep’ upon detecting movement.” – You Asked: “What Should I Look For in a Trailer Tracking GPS System?”, FQWireless; Twitter: @fqwireless

30. Choose a Platform That Allows Real-Time Communications. “Trailer tracking gives you the ability to receive regular updates on the progress of shipments, because you’re able to see your asset’s location during the entire route. This transmittal of information via GPS trailer tracking allows you to cut lead times and maximize efficiencies with up-to-the-minute shipment status updates.” – Trailer & Equipment Tracking, Rhino Fleet Tracking; Twitter: @rhinofleets

31. Look for Technology That Enables Automation and Fleet Efficiencies. “This new technology helps our dispatch team identify tractor and trailer inconsistencies, making diagnosing and fixing these mismatches easier. This helps our customers identify the real-time location of our trailers, whether they are in yards or en route.” – Jeff Pries, Trailer Tracking Technology – Simplifying The Tracking Process For Customers And Drivers, Bison Transport; Twitter: @Drive4Bison

32. Prepare for the Sunset of 3G GPS Tracking. “It’s important to note that while a particular carrier may say when their 3G network will be discontinued, it’s possible that their 3G service will be inconsistent before that date. This is because many carriers have ‘roaming agreements’ that let them use the towers of other carriers at times. If those other carriers have discontinued 3G, service may be unavailable in certain areas. The bottom line: You should make the transition away from 3G as soon as possible.” – Is Your Fleet Prepared for the “Sunset” of 3G GPS Tracking?, Boxwheel Trailer Leasing; Twitter: @boxwheel

33. Consider the Ease of Installation. “Making minor modifications to the vehicle can appear impossible to most people. And, it’s reasonable that several people prioritize ease of installation when choosing a Trailer GPS tracker. Fortunately, a reliable Trailer GPS tracker should be compact and lightweight enough to be mounted on a vehicle. Using the best GPS tracker needs to be as easy as hiding a plastic full of pencils in your boot. Unless you want to do some sort of extra advanced installation.” – Trailer GPS Tracker: Top 5 Best Systems (Reviews & Scores), ELD Devices; Twitter: @elddevices

34. Mobile Connectivity Is Critical for Dispersed Fleets. “Many businesses are hopping on the trend of mobilizing their workforce by having their employees use mobile phones and tablets on the job. This trend is more applicable in a vehicle fleet than anywhere else as drivers are perpetually on the go! Therefore, GPS fleet tracking software should be easy for drivers to use on their mobile devices while they’re on the road.” – 4 Features of Successful GPS Fleet Tracking Solutions, SkyBitz; Twitter: @SkyBitz

35. Review Integrations With Your Existing Software. “Many transportation companies rely on other software systems for a multitude of business needs, like for dispatch capabilities. Make sure you identify a GPS provider that can work to integrate their trailer tracking software to your existing software.” – The 5-minute Trailer Tracking Guide, Spireon; Twitter: @spireon

36. Look For Quality Reporting Features. “A GPS tracking solution should provide you with the data and reporting capabilities necessary to make informed business decisions. One key to reporting is flexibility. If a vehicle tracking system doesn’t allow you to automate reports on a weekly or monthly basis while also giving you the ability to generate reports instantly, cross that one off your list. The reports should be concise and easy to understand. Reports should be available in your choice of formats: download to spreadsheet, email or online. Important reports should include vehicle starts and stops, excessive idling times, speed violations and much more. Information should be archived for at least 1 year and customizable by time and date.” – Robert Drucker, The 5 Most Important Things to Consider When Choosing a Vehicle Tracking System, Boston Global Tracking; Twitter: @bostongps

37. Check The Quality and Availability of Location Data. “Would your trailer inventory benefit from real-time tracking, or is a single location ping every five to ten minutes sufficient? Additionally, would it be helpful to have the option to switch between real-time or interval alerts?” – How to Use a GPS Tracker for Trailers to Improve Your Fleet Management, Samsara; Twitter: @Samsara

38. Find a Solution That Gives You Complete Control. “Look for a telematics provider that can give you, as partner, full control over the platform. This means you’re better able to support your clients — reducing administrative delays, minimising waiting times and making sure they’re up and running quickly AND efficiently.” – 7 factors when choosing the right tracking platform, Telematics Wire; Twitter: @telematicswire

39. Dispatching Can Be More Efficient with Real-Time Data Tracking. “Effective dispatching is possible with Real-time solutions. It is possible to know the status of each vehicle and the location of the drivers on a map. This feature allows you to take actions on emergency or other situations and to effectively manage the day-to-day operations.” – 7 Things to Consider When Choosing a GPS Vehicle Tracking Device, Edsys; Twitter: @EdsysEducation

40. Prioritize Fuel Tracking and Analysis. “As a leading expense line for many businesses, the right fleet tracking software will track fuel spend and monitor fuel usage to identify wasteful behaviors, such as excessive idling and aggressive acceleration with real-time alerts.” – Fleet Tracking Software: The Ultimate Buyers Guide, Teletrac Navman; Twitter: @TeletracNavman

41. Look for a Balance of Features and Cost. “Be aware that the GPS tracking and telematics industry is no different than your industry. The low price leader is forgoing something (features, service, financial stability, etc.) to be at the lowest price point. By using the checklist you will overcome the temptation to go with the low price leader which may not be the best long-term partner that will maximize your return on investment.” – GPS Tracking Buyers Guide, Fleetistics; Twitter: @fleetistics

42. Preventive Maintenance Features Can Reduce Equipment Downtime. “When maintenance isn’t planned for, it keeps trailers off the road longer than necessary, which can equate to less business won for your company. Taking preventative measures with GPS trailer tracking will allow you to schedule maintenance and receive alerts with enough time to plan around that trailer’s downtime. Companies also turn to GPS trailer tracking for the capability to schedule maintenance based on of a specific date for annual inspections.” – Lance Holt, GPS Trailer Tracking – Optimizing Your Productivity, GPS Insight; Twitter: @gpsinsight

Trailer Tracking Hardware Tips

43. Install a Device That is Difficult for Thieves to Track. “Most GPS trackers can be detected, however the LoneStar Tracking system is one of the most difficult trackers to detect. If a thief is scanning for a tracking device, it will only detect the GPS tracker if the unit is transmitting location information. Because the LoneStar Tracking GPS trackers sleep when the trailer is not moving, there is no signal for the thief to detect.” – GPS Trailer Tracker, Lonestar Tracking; Twitter: @LoneStarTrackin

44. Water-Resistant Housings Help Protect The Device. “Additionally, our trailer tracking device has an amazing water-resistant quality that works flawlessly in any bitterest situation that the truck driver may face on the road. One of the crucial reasons why most people make use of this device is it increases the security of the trailer and cargo. It also reduces the driver’s detention time. – Oscar Bernard, How does a trailer tracker function?, TXT E Solutions; Twitter: @TXTELD

45. Hardware Tracking Prevents Equipment Hoarding. “Stop wasting money on idle equipment. Equipment hoarding has become a common practice on today’s job sites. Sometimes it’s accidental, but sometimes it’s very intentional. It can be tempting to keep a piece of equipment onsite for a ‘just in case’ situation, but if that equipment isn’t working for you, it’s losing money. Asset tracking allows you visibility of all your assets, so you can optimize workflows and make sure valuable equipment is being put to use.” – Brittany Wooten, 4 Benefits of Asset Tracking for Fleet Management, EROAD; Twitter: @EroadGlobal

46. Ensure Your Hardware Supports Low Battery Alerts. “You never want your GPS tracker to die on you, so an asset tracking system that lets you view your battery’s status is a must. Notifications let you know the moment your battery is low or disconnected so you can keep on track.” – Introduction to Asset Tracking For Trailers, CallPass; Twitter: @_CallPass

47. Choose The Proper Installation Option. “GPS tracking devices are integral to your fleet’s operational efficiency. They monitor your vehicles in real-time providing you with data related to everything from location and speed to excessive idling and aggressive driving. Installing GPS fleet tracking devices isn’t difficult, but there are choices to make: Plug-n-play devices connect directly to an OBD-II or JBUS port. Hardwired vehicle tracking devices require a three-wire connection. Self-powered devices run on batteries or solar power.” – Comparing Installation Options for GPS Fleet Tracking Devices, AutoConnect GPS; Twitter: @PlugNTrackGPS

48. GPS-Enabled Taillights Can Add Covert Tracking. “Once installed, the unit can help fleets locate trailers that are dropped off at the wrong spot, lost, or stolen. The sensors typically broadcast their position over standard cellphone networks every five minutes when moving and charging, every 15 minutes when moving and not charging, and every six hours when idle.” – GPS-enabled taillights double as covert tracking devices, DC Velocity; Twitter: @dcvelocity

49. Use An ELD-Compliant Device For Paperless Compliance. “The roll out of Electronic Logging Devices as required by the ELD mandate is now complete with the AOBRD transition period over. ELD paperless log books can be set to automatically collect driving data, allowing drivers to maximize driving time by recording in single-minute units, not the traditional 15-minute increments. Roadside inspections are often quicker and more efficient too.” – Kevin Aries, Nine Ways to Make Truck Fleet Management Smarter, Verizon Connect; Twitter: @verizonconnect

50. Research Emerging IoT-Enabled Hardware. “However, new IoT-based applications can provide even better real-time operational efficiency for fleet managers. After all, fleet managers can leverage far more than just track-and-trace capabilities. There’s been a rise in ‘smart trucks’ that carry various sensors and devices bumper-to-bumper, collecting data and generating insights that are providing tangible value to fleet managers.” – Cody Lirette, The Role of IoT in Fleet Management, ORBCOMM; Twitter: @ORBCOMM_Inc

51. Consider Devices With Removable Batteries. “GPS is powered by a built-in or removable battery. The ability to use additional (removable) batteries is preferable because it will help to avoid a lot of problems connected with the built-in battery failure. This is a significant advantage, and preference should be given to such GPS trackers. But even in the case of an external power source, the GPS tracker will operate not longer than a few hours. For stable operation without any failures, the GPS unit needs to be connected to the car onboard network via the adapter. Therefore, the car adapter is a mandatory item in your GPS system.” – How To Build Your Own GPS Vehicle Tracking System, Cprime Studios; Twitter: @CPrimeStudios

52. Use Hardware to Monitor Engine Idling Time. “For example, by combining location with engine idling data, fleet managers can pinpoint problem areas and remind drivers to turn off their engines. Visibility into an entire fleet can help dispatchers deploy and monitor vehicles more efficiently, reducing empty miles and improving overall vehicle utilization. Leading fleet tracking systems can be configured to generate custom reports and real-time alerts to hone in on specific problem areas.” – 5 Benefits of Modern Fleet Tracking Systems, Lytx; Twitter: @lytx

53. Choose Between Short-Term and Long-Term Tracking. “Are you looking for something that would be ideal for tracking of a few days or weeks, or are you looking for a GPS fleet tracking device that can track for months or years at a time? Your answer will help you to determine the type of power supply you will need for your GPS tracker. Battery life can vary between fleet management trackers, which makes being able to choose from portable, battery-powered trackers, hard-wired trackers, or even solar power trackers particularly helpful.” – Brian Dziuk, 5 Tips for Choosing the Right GPS Fleet Trackers for Your Needs, Rastrac; Twitter: @Rastrac_GPS

54. Be Sure To Follow All Instructions for Any DIY Installations. “If you do opt to install the device yourself, make sure you follow all the instructions precisely and check the device carefully to ensure it works after the installation. Be aware that DIY vehicle tracking installation means you will have no external support available if something goes wrong, so make sure you are confident with how to deal with any issues that may arise.” – Amanda Thomas, Guide on How to Install a GPS Tracker on Your Vehicle: Plug-In or Hardwired?, Trackimo; Twitter: @trackimo

55. Use Vehicle Data For Fleet Replacement Planning. “The latest vehicle sensors and devices can deliver timely alerts about engine problems and many other diagnostic issues while alerting routing centers when your vehicles are out of service. Note that the cache of vehicle data is likely to help with drive fleet overhaul as well as replacement planning, which is convenient.” – Everything you need to know about telematics and fleet management, GPS Wox; Twitter: @gpswox

56. Consider a Critical Event Video (CEV) System. “Advanced technology has allowed dash cameras to go to the next level. The Critical Event Video (CEV) Camera is an improved version of the dash camera. Fleets can track vehicles, monitor driver behavior, access video footage, and optimize fleet management with these intelligent dash cameras. The CEV camera enables fleet managers to see how their drivers behave in real-time. With access to driver performance, managers can easily detect high fuel consuming behavior.” – Aspen Rogers, 6 Ways to Advance Your Fleet, Gentrifi GPS; Twitter: @GentrifiGPS

57. Collision Mitigation Technologies Can Supplement Tracking Devices. “Today’s systems are also eliminating the false positives that the old technology reported. For many companies, collision mitigation systems are becoming standard on new trucks and can be retrofitted to older trucks as well. Collision mitigation technology also serves as a way to monitor more of what’s going on around a truck as the truck’s speed and control in various conditions changes, offering the ability to take autonomous emergency action if necessary.” – Up to Date Fleet Solutions Require New Tech, WEX Inc.; Twitter: @WEXIncNews

58. Choose a Proper Location to Install The Device. “Firstly you must decide the place of installation for the tracker. More often, businesses prefer to get their fleet tracking device installed where it is easy to hide from the view of thieves as well as drivers. Placing the device under the dashboard of trucks or vehicles can be a good idea. Make sure that the high-end imports under the dashboard do not have a metal foil or else the decision to fix the device under the mount of dashboard may not work. Keep in mind that the GPS signal has the ability to penetrate glass, foam, plastic, wood, and fiberglass.” – How To Set Up A GPS Fleet Tracking System, Fleetroot; Twitter: @FleetrootInfo

59. Understand the Major Hardware Options Available. “GPS tracking requires you to integrate hardware into your fleet vehicles and equipment. There are three types of hardware you should be aware of: OBD II or ‘plug and play’ devices, hardwired devices, and battery-operated devices. You can also install dash cameras for better security and visibility. Here’s a breakdown of each.” – Karen Bradley, The Real Cost of Vehicle Tracking for Fleets, EcoTrack Fleet Management

Yard Management Tips

60. Use Trailer Tracking to Simplify Yard Checks. “Have your yard jockeys ever walked to a trailer only to discover it wasn’t the right one? Or that it was parked somewhere else? GPS trailer tracking shows you exactly where the trailer is, simplifying yard checks for sites. On-site cameras complement these checks with historical video footage. You can also receive proactive alerts notifying you when there is unusual activity in your yard.” – A Step-by-Step Guide for How to Track Trailers in the Yard, Samsara; Twitter: @Samsara

61. Monitor Driver Performance and History. “It is essential to know that your drivers are not behaving incorrectly behind the wheel. By examining your driver’s performance, you can prevent the amount of damage done to your vehicles. There is affordable technology in the trucking industry that can track speeding over the limit, braking harshly, and even excessive idling. Keeping these events to a minimum will save you money in the long run.” – Araceli Santos, 5 Tips For Trailer Maintenance In Your Fleet, Anytrek; Twitter: @AnytrekCorp

62. Track Trailer Arrivals and Departures With Geofencing. “In addition to determining the location of your trailers with GPS tracking, you can use geo zone alerts, or geofence alerts to also receive information about the arrival and departure times of your cargo. Geo zone alerts can even be automated to notify your team when a shipment is approaching a customer’s loading dock, for example. This way, you know when the cargo is delivered and an order has been completed without having to call your team.” – Simon Austin-Beckett, Trailer tracking benefits for your fleet, Verizon Connect; Twitter: @VerizonConnect

63. Improve Driver Efficiency With Efficient Monitoring. “Improving the process with efficient monitoring can greatly help drivers understand what trailers they’re connecting to. If these pieces function in the right order, your back office can quickly connect with drivers who are getting ready to start their trips with the wrong trailers. Happier drivers often equate to lower turnover rates, which can all result in terrific ROI for your business.” – Andrew Hicks, Webinar wisdom: Maximize your margins with trailer and asset tracking, Omnitracs; Twitter: @OmnitracsHQ

64. Manage and Optimize Trailer Utilization. “Where fleet utilization is an understanding of the percentage of your fleet that is being used for the purpose of fully optimizing resources, trailer utilization is even more granular, relating to the percentage of a trailer that is being used. Embracing IoT sensor technologies can help improve your trailer utilization, empowering fleet managers to increase their overall operational efficiency and revenue per mile.” – Trailer Utilization: The Key Word Every Fleet Manager Should Know, CloudHawk; Twitter: @CloudHawk

65. Hire A Capable Yard Manager. “Your ideal yard manager is organized and detailed oriented. They keep a board on the location of every trailer and know what each one contains. They also need to be an excellent strategist who can find what’s needed quickly. They monitor, schedule, track, and communicate with your drivers, providing efficient and clear direction to keep the yard running with no complications.” – Chadwick Heard, 4 Secrets To Yard Management Efficiency, RBW Logistics; Twitter: @rbwlogistics

66. Assign Parking Within the Yard. “Yard coordinators can prioritize and track trailer positions, arrivals and departures across distributed or centralized yards. The ability to assign parking and quickly locate trailers in the yard increases efficiency in operations. Workers don’t waste time hunting for trailers, or parking trailers in the wrong location.” – Four Ways to Improve Yard Management, Descartes Systems Group; Twitter: @DescartesSG

67. Take Advantage of Auto-Inventory Reconciliation Capabilities. “Today’s yard management systems may come with auto-inventory reconciliation, meaning the location of assets/trailers in the yard is automatically updated as the yard truck goes about its operations, reading RFID tags and associating the tag with the current GPS location. If a trailer is not in the position in which it was last seen, the system automatically updates the location, eliminating the need for manual yard checks.” – Seve Carnera, Top Challenges in Yard Management and How to Solve Them, SupplyChain247; Twitter: @SupplyChain247

68. Use Spotting and Shuttling Services to Streamline Management. “When high volumes of trucks and trailers need to enter or leave a yard, congestion can drastically hinder productivity. As an extension of the facility or transportation operation, spotting and shuttling services can improve communication between drivers and facility operators, mitigating disruptions and enhancing distribution.” – Tips on Managing the Yard, NFI Industries; Twitter: @nfiindustries

69. A Yard Management Systems (YMS) Can Improve Fleet Visibility. “Two main roles come to mind—visibility and communication. Today’s best systems offer visibility into basic information including the location, status, and contents of assets on the yard. They are also able to offer more detailed information including historical data, load detail down to the SKU, and accountability of who is performing tasks and when.” – Nathan Harris, Improving Operations With a Yard Management System, Inbound Logistics; Twitter: @ILMagazine

70. Have Drivers Check-In With a Smartphone Device Upon Arrival. “When drivers check in with their smartphones, they can also activate their global positioning systems so that yard personnel can track their whereabouts. That information gives warehouse managers the ability to plot the location of every truck on their lot, avoid the time-intensive process of searching for vehicles that may be parked in the wrong spots, and fit more drop-offs and pickups into each day.” – Ben Ames, Five tips for getting drivers through your yard faster, DC Velocity; Twitter: @dcvelocity

71. Consider All Vehicle Parameters To Optimize Parking. “To find the optimal parking space for each car, it is important to consider not only where you have space on the yard, but take into consideration what the next steps are for that individual vehicle. Will the vehicle undergo modification? Is the vehicle damaged? What is the next mode of transportation? These questions must be considered to optimize parking and keep costly kilometers off the odometer.” – Luisa Walendy, 5 Tips For Vehicle Yard Operators, INFORM; Twitter: @inform_software

72. Use Multi-Technology Solutions. “In the yard, the lift truck is equipped with RFID readers. These are onboard computers with a cellular modem and a GPS device that allows dispatchers to assign move tasks and track driver performance. In addition, it also provides drivers with the ability to perform automatic, drive-by yard checks, manage move tasks and assign trailer locations based on GPS coordinates. By using this multi-technology solution, the 3PL was able to attain the required yard functionality in a cost-effective fashion.” – Chuck Papa, Organizing Yard Management Flow, Material Handling & Logistics; Twitter: @MHLeditor

73. Ensure Yard Drivers Are Onboard With Your Chosen System. “Absolutely key to the success of your implementation are the yard drivers. If they are not on board the system is sure to falter. They are typically a very skilled team who know how to manage a yard. So it’s very important to help them understand that the YMS is there to help, not take away their autonomy or worse—their job.” – Gregory Braun, A Practical Guide: Purchasing and Implementing a Yard Management System, C3 Solutions; Twitter: @c3solutions

74. Implement Efficient Labor Management Techniques. “If you visit a traditional yard (the one managed by a manual system with all the paperwork), you will see trucks waiting for their turn to be unloaded or uploaded. That is due to the waiting time since the manager has to manually find a place for a container, or where the truck should be loaded with goods. A YMS system is a lot more effective since managers direct trucks to sections where they should upload or unload goods prior to their arrival.” – Bethany Watson, The Importance of Digitizing Yard Management, Global Trade; Twitter: @GlobalTradeMag

75. Develop an Efficient Yard Layout. “Create a layout of your workspace. This can include which bays or loading ramps that you have which can receive trucks for loading and unloading. The plan should also outline the location of each storage space for storing products. Plan out these areas in blocks and give them labels. When everyone is knowledgeable about the yard plan, you can communicate much easier as a team, and as a result operations become more efficient.” – Best Practices In Yard Management, Dura-Ramp; Twitter: @duraramp

76. Integrate Yard Management Systems With Warehouse Technlogy. “For a yard management system to work optimally, it must have some capabilities that allow it to integrate with other technology that you have in place already. These would be things such as cloud integration, scheduling software, and billing tools. Additionally, if you use RFID or Bluetooth extensively in your warehouse, will the YMS be able to communicate with the devices that operate through that technology.” – What Is A Yard Management System?, Redwood; Twitter: @redwoodlgistics

77. Provide Training For Employees, Drivers, and Vendors. “Inform all team members, drivers, vendors and other personnel involved in yard operations of proper procedures and protocols, including how to use appropriate YMS functions to streamline the arrival, loading and unloading, and departure of trucks. The should also include a thorough review of all your businesses ‘Green,’ such as reducing fuel costs by eliminating the number of hours a perishable shipment sits in a running truck in your yard.” – 7 Ways to Overcome Yard Management Challenges, Veridian; Twitter: @VeridianInfo

78. Verify Technology Before Making a Purchase. “When working with potential vendors, make sure that you can do a test run on the system before it is incorporated into the organization. This is because you could settle for a system that doesn’t address all your needs, but have already made the purchase. Is there an advantage to common operating systems with their technology? How will the solution being provided address your business needs? Make sure you have someone with a technical background with you when examining the systems.” – Sunit Nandi, Tips on Choosing a Yard Management System, Techno FAQ; Twitter: @Techno_FAQ

79. Consider Using Dock Delivery Appointments. “A best practice, which is more common in Europe, is to have carriers book delivery appointments within a narrow window, the load is tipped on arrival, and the driver departs with an empty trailer. This practice is less common in North America, where yards are larger and can accommodate drop trailers waiting to be unloaded. Trailers tend to sit in the yard for a couple of days. However, having fully loaded trailers sitting in the yard acting as a safety buffer between transportation and warehouse processes is inherently poor practice.” – Steve Banker, How to Improve Yard Management, Logistics Viewpoints; Twitter: @logisticsviewpt

80. Combine YMS and Intelligent Truck Systems. “To further support yard operational efficiencies, organizations are also turning to intelligent truck supply control systems that automatically respond to unexpected workflow disruptions. In operation, these software solutions review truck time slot schedules after each event in real time and make adjustments, when necessary, via a web portal where sites and carriers are coordinated.” – Yard Management & Intelligent Truck Control: A Dynamic Duo, Advanced Fleet Management Consulting

Best Practices for Effective Trailer Tracking

81. Track Trailer KPIs To Improve Fleet Utilization. “The average American long-haul trucker travels over 100,000 miles in a year, showcasing the distance that fleets cover as they transport cargo. Tracking trailer KPIs such as percentage of loaded miles versus empty (deadhead) miles can go a long way in boosting profit margins, considering the amount of time truckers are on the road., considering the amount of time truckers are on the road.’ – Cody Lirette, 3 Reasons Every Fleet Manager Needs to Set Trailer KPIs, ORBCOMM; Twitter: @ORBCOMM_Inc

82. Also Consider Tracking For Other Non-Powered Devices. “From shipping containers, ISO containers to IBC tanks, fuel tanks, and other non-powered equipment, implementing asset tracking for your operations can give you the data and information you need, when you need it. Make sure that the GPS asset tracking devices you choose are catered to the needs of your operations.” – Sandra Meekins, Truck & Trailer (Large Equipment) Asset Tracking, Geoforce; Twitter: @geoforce

83. Fleet Data Can Improve Safety Awareness. “Trailer Tracking is a vital part of fleet management. Together, they allow managers and owners to operate their fleets at maximum capacity and improve profitability. It also ensures that all assets are utilized properly and maintained periodically. The reports generated are accurate and help in tax compliances and safety protocols.” – Emma Pauline, Trailer Tracking And Fleet Management – What’s The Difference?, Matrack; Twitter: @matrackinc

84. Use Dynamic Tracking To Reduce Maintenance Costs. “Trailer mileage can also be tracked digitally with fair accuracy. Additionally, when a trailer is inward bound to a lot, the fleet manager will know this ahead of time and can prepare to pull it off the line for maintenance, inserting another trailer in its place. With Flex, you can always know where your trailer is, not just where it was.” – Cory Halbardier, Cutting maintenance costs on trailers with dynamic asset tracking, Geotab; Twitter: @geotab

85. Address Service Issues Using Trailer Tracking. “Operating efficiency, asset utilization, and safety all impact the number of loads and tonnage a fleet can haul. Addressing service issues like low tire pressure has a big impact on fuel costs and tire wear.” – Gregg Wartgow, Nine ways new trailer tracking solutions benefit a fleet, FleetMaintenance; Twitter: @fleetmx

86. Use Fleet Data To Improve Training Effectiveness. “The data collected by fleet management software, as well as from GPS tracking and dashcams, can be used for training. It can also be used as a way to record good behavior and reward employees accordingly—one of several non-finance-related things proven to boost employee motivation.” – 5 Ways Telematics is Transforming the Landscaping Industry, Fleet Complete; Twitter: @fleetcomplete

87. Set a Clear Budget and Tracking Goals. “At the end of the day, installing vehicle trackers is about saving money. With GPS tracking equipment, you’ll be better able to dispatch efficiently and manage fuel use, which reduces waste and saves the company serious amounts of cash. As such, it’s important to choose GPS fleet trackers that make sense for your business– if you choose a model that’s too expensive, or that doesn’t have the features you need, you could actually end up losing money.” – Getting Started: Beginner’s Tips for GPS Fleet Tracking, Titan GPS; Twitter: @titan_gps

88. Focus On Your Customers. “Customer focus ensures the satisfaction of your company’s most important people — its clients. Fleet managers need to keep this in mind when making decisions regarding fleet operations. For instance, when acquiring new vehicles, a transport fleet manager should consider whether a rental car company customer would prefer to have a luxury vehicle or a small, compact model.” – The Ultimate Guide to Fleet Management, Rand McNally; Twitter: @randmcnally

89. Tailor The Use of Fleet Management To Your Business Needs. “Different industries may take advantage of fleet management software in unique ways. If a client schedules a pick-up, the nearest truck can easily be assigned to the job. Without this data, you might otherwise waste fuel and lose time selecting a truck that’s further away. Efficient dispatch times will increase customer satisfaction, and automatic delay notifications will reduce client frustration.” – Ryan Birdsell, how gps tracking can help improve fleet management, SATX Technologies; Twitter: @satxtechnology

90. Remain Compliant with Hours of Service (HOS) Rules. “Aside from ensuring fleet productivity, operators and managers also have to ensure the safety of their drivers and compliance with government regulations such as Hours of Service (HOS) rules. Fleet management software should alert drivers and managers to unsafe or problematic driver behaviors. At the same time, the solution should automatically be tracking HOS (hours of service) so drivers don’t exceed the allowable working hours under HOS rules, as well as keeping track of fuel usage on a state-by-state basis to simplify fuel tax payments.” – 7 Things to Look for in a Fleet Management Solution, DispatchTrack; Twitter: @dispatchtrack

91. Improve Vehicle Inventory Accuracy. “For bigger fleets operating in different locations, very often in the construction sector, it is necessary to exactly locate equipment for logistical and security reasons. Tracking your mobile assets is an invaluable aid to planning your daily schedule and cutting out the superfluous movement of assets from one place to the other. This can be achieved in a far more intelligent way!” – Eleonora Malacarne, 5 great asset tracking tips to keep tabs on your fleet, Transpoco Telematics; Twitter: @transpoco

92. Look for Cloud-Based Tracking Solutions. “Cloud-based fleet management software keeps users current on product updates with little to no downtime. Plus, no hardware means no overhead, maintenance costs or headaches for IT.” – Rachael Plant, 8 Advantages of Cloud-based Fleet Management Software, Fleetio; Twitter: @fleetio

93. Use Privacy Authorization to Protect Data. “Such business related information must be shared only with the authorized people like customs officers during the shipment, police for clearances. During the fleet operations, wherever authorization is needed, the company or the organization must e-verify the company vehicle and the person driving the company’s vehicle for a secured operation.” – 6 Tips to protect your Fleets from GPS signal jammers and scramblers, Vamosys

94. Consider Employee Morale When Implementing A Tracking System. “Implementing this software may result in employee pushback. Drivers may not want to be monitored and could view the decision to use GPS fleet tracking systems as a sign their employer doesn’t trust them and a violation of employee privacy. If you decide to use a fleet tracking system, consider how you plan to inform your employees that you’ll be implementing it.” – Matt D’Angelo, Choosing a GPS Fleet Tracking System, Business News Daily; Twitter: @BNDarticles

95. Create Standard Vehicle Replacement Schedules. “Proper replacement of vehicles is not only a financial issue. Substandard vehicles compromise the safety of your employees and others. A proper life-cycle analysis will help you determine the criteria for appropriate replacement schedules.” – The Most Effective Fleet Management Best Practices, GPS Trackit; Twitter: @gpstrackit

96. Remain Focused on Long-Term Fleet Management Goals. “It’s easy to get caught up in the mundane activities of fleet management. However, it’s important to stay focused on your long-term strategic and business initiatives as well. For example, utilizing a fleet management system to monitor vehicle use rates, as well as maintenance and repair costs, ensures you’ve set aside enough funding to replace vehicles and plan for other future expenses.” – Brian Dziuk, Fleet Management Best Practices to Improve Operations and Efficiency, Rastrac; Twitter: @Rastrac_GPS

97. Link Restraints to the Master Control Panel. “The traditional alternative to restraints are chocks, which are manually attached. This can cause injury during the attachment process, there is a high risk of error, and they don’t secure the trailer as strongly as restraints do. Today’s restraints are automatic, so there’s minimal risk of error or injury. Modern restraints can also be linked to the master control panel. This centralized system prevents any unloading actions until the trailer is firmly locked in place, and it also refuses to let the driver leave until all the unloading has been approved. It can also link up to the system’s lights to signal the driver and loader of the process status to ensure continuous communication.” – Top 7 Loading and Unloading Best Practices, Redwood Logistics; Twitter: @redwoodlgistics

98. Use Unique Tracking Numbers For Each Asset. “It’s possible that an asset’s serial number will be identical to that of another asset. If the serial number is used as the tracking number, the duplicate numbers will cause confusion because there is no way to tell the two assets apart. This can compromise data integrity and lead to inaccurate customer balances and inventory, reduce your rental income and impact customer satisfaction. Using a unique tracking number different from the serial number eliminates these problems. In the rare event that a tracking number is lost, the asset still can be looked up using its serial number and re-labeled properly to retain the asset’s history. – Tim Fusco, Top Five Asset Tracking Best Practices, TrackAbout; Twitter: @trackabout

99. Take Steps to Reduce Vehicle Drag. “Haulers and dump trucks are massive, so they consume a ton of fuel. And whether or not a mammoth vehicle like this is aerodynamic has a huge impact on its overall fuel consumption. In fact, drag alone can waste as much as half of a truck’s total fuel. For large truck fleets, that’s a huge budget consideration. To make your heavy duty trucks as fuel-efficient as possible, regularly assess all aerodynamic devices. Make sure you minimize any gaps between the tractor and the trailer, and monitor tire pressure consistently.” – Curtis Lederle, 13 fleet truck fuel management best practices, Contact Tread Technologies; Twitter: @treadapp

100. Assign Clear Ownership For Maintenance Work. “Sometimes vehicle maintenance doesn’t get taken care of simply because everyone assumes someone else is in charge of it. Avoid this mistake by clearly dictating who is responsible. It often works well to put drivers in charge of their vehicles, since they have the most control to monitor and manage them properly. But this decision will be fleet-specific. The key is to put a system in place that ensures proper accountability for the needed maintenance of each vehicle.” – Top 5 Tips For Effective Fleet Maintenance Planning, Track Your Truck; Twitter: @TrackYourTruck

101. Store Additional Vehicle Data Such as License Information. “Additionally, fleet management software can store a wide variety of information about vehicles in your fleet. Using this information, you can set up notifications about upcoming fleet license renewals and more so you don’t have to rely on memory or outdated paper logs.” – 5 Ways To Make Your Fleet More Efficient, MiX Telematics; Twitter: @MiXTelematics

This article originally appeared here. Republished with permission.

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Leveraging GPS Tracking for Automated Fleet Maintenance

January 12th, 2022 Dylan Berger Leave a comment

Maintenance is one of the most important parts of fleet management. A good maintenance strategy can help a business cut repair costs, improve fuel efficiency, and eliminate vehicle downtime.

Scheduling vehicle maintenance can be difficult, however, especially for businesses that don’t know exactly where their fleet vehicles are.

GPS tracking technology is one of the best tools that fleet managers can use to streamline maintenance — or even completely automate it.

Why Businesses Use GPS Tracking for Fleet Management

GPS tracking is a fleet tracking strategy that uses networked GPS systems to provide managers with the real-time location of each vehicle in the fleet. Location data is often used to streamline scheduling and routing, allowing administrators to make more informed decisions when they need to dispatch a vehicle or schedule a new job.

GPS data may also enable a system to track driver behavior, including unnecessary idling, speeding, and harsh braking events. This information can be provided to fleet managers and dispatchers, as well as passed on directly to drivers.

Fleet managers and dispatchers can use the information to improve their decision-making while drivers can learn more about their own habits and practices — allowing them to identify potential areas of improvement.

These tools are popular among businesses in parts of the country where idling laws may mean hefty fines for businesses that allow drivers to leave vehicles idling. They are also frequently used by businesses that want to track and reduce dangerous driving habits that can harm vehicle health, reduce fuel economy, and make drivers less safe.

The benefits of a GPS tracking system can vary from business to business, but most will see noticeable improvements to vehicle fuel efficiency, overall driving hours, driver behavior, compliance, and safety.

Many GPS tracking systems are also part of a larger telematics system that can provide managers with even more fleet data. These systems may also include dashboards and data visualization tools that help fleet managers better understand the data they’ve collected.

With the right solution, it can be much easier to predict fleet expenses and implement new business policies that help improve fleet performance.

Automating Maintenance With GPS Tracking

The most effective maintenance strategies are preventive. Long before small problems with a vehicle become serious issues, the business takes action to keep the vehicle in the best operating condition possible.

For example, a business may hire a mechanic to regularly inspect brakes, check oil levels, change filters, or check tire tread. These simple checks allow businesses to prevent most common vehicle issues, like brake failure, frequently seen in vehicles like semi-trucks or tractor-trailers when they’re not properly maintained.

The simplest maintenance tasks aren’t usually expensive or time-consuming, and they can help keep vehicles on the road while providing other benefits — like better fuel economy and a lower risk of breaking down.

Preventive maintenance can be hard to implement, however — especially for businesses that have relied on a reactive maintenance strategy in the past.

The time and money needed for preventive maintenance are usually repaid over time, as maintenance reduces the need for repairs or the frequency of breakdowns. Typically, preventive maintenance only becomes challenging when a business doesn’t have enough information on its vehicles, drivers, or maintenance providers.

This information could be a shipping estimate on essential replacement parts, a mechanic’s availability, or the current status of fleet vehicles.

Without the right information, fleet managers can struggle to coordinate the different parts of a preventive maintenance strategy — like the business’s mechanics, tools, replacement components, or the vehicles themselves.

How GPS Tracking Makes Maintenance Automation Possible

GPS tracking provides a valuable source of information on fleet vehicles’ location and driving conditions. The system is continuously updating managers on the position of each vehicle and how drivers are operating those vehicles.

With a GPS tracking solution, it’s typically possible to create automatic maintenance alerts that instantly notify managers when maintenance is needed.

These maintenance alerts are customizable, meaning managers can configure them to appear after a certain number of hours have passed, or when a vehicle passes a number of miles driven.

Many of these solutions also track how employees are driving their vehicles, allowing managers to draw connections between driver behaviors, maintenance costs, and specific repairs.

This data can help managers identify behaviors that harm vehicle health the most, allowing them to track driver behavior and maximize vehicle lifespan while minimizing maintenance costs.

A more advanced system could also provide additional benefits — for example, by automatically scheduling maintenance when it’s needed. Using information from the GPS trackers, the system could automatically schedule maintenance and generate a route to the maintenance garage based on the vehicle’s current location, the driver’s job status, and the distance to nearby maintenance locations.

Over time, information from GPS tracking systems can also help managers understand their fleet’s schedule. With this data, managers can know exactly when business tends to be slow or when specific vehicles are available, allowing them to schedule maintenance in a way that won’t disrupt work.

They may also be able to provide better availability estimates to customers and help their team dispatch vehicles more effectively.

For businesses that have struggled with creating driver schedules or meeting client needs, these tools could help them create better schedules for their team, making it easier to dispatch drivers and complete jobs.

Integrating GPS With Other Maintenance Automation Tools

Fleet managers that benefit from using GPS to automate fleet maintenance will probably also benefit from many of the other fleet maintenance automation tools available.

Many of these tools are built with technology like GPS tracking in mind, meaning they may integrate easily with existing GPS tracking solutions or be able to utilize the real-time data these solutions provide.

For example, a comprehensive telematics and maintenance automation system may be able to provide managers with automatic alerts based on both miles driven and data collected by vehicle components — like tire pressure sensors, brake system sensors, and the engine control unit.

Using GPS to Improve and Automate Fleet Maintenance

An automated preventive maintenance strategy can help any business keep its fleet on the road. Implementing preventive maintenance without the right information may be difficult, however.

GPS tracking systems provide real-time updates on fleet vehicle locations that managers can use to make preventive maintenance much more practical. These tools can also help managers identify reckless driving or bad habits, like idling.

Combined with other maintenance and telematics solutions, GPS tracking can also help make automating maintenance much easier. The right solution can provide automatic notices when a vehicle hits a major milestone or number of hours driven.

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

What New Fleet Managers Can Expect From Maintenance Inspections

December 6th, 2021 Dylan Berger Leave a comment

Managing a fleet can be a fulfilling experience, but it also includes a lot of responsibility. New managers must understand and anticipate these responsibilities so that they can operate legally, safely and efficiently.

One of the many considerations new fleet managers must keep in mind is the need for regular maintenance inspections. While anyone in the industry understands that regular maintenance is important, the specifics may be less clear.

With that in mind, here’s what new managers should expect in this area.

Why are Maintenance Inspections Necessary?

First, it’s important to understand that regular maintenance checks aren’t just recommended but mandatory. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all motor carriers to regularly inspect, repair and maintain all of their vehicles. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines and other legal damages.

Apart from the legality of the situation, these inspections can help fleet managers minimize operating costs. Failing to inspect some components can lead to costly repairs and replacements, so it’s best to catch any potential issues early when repairs are more straightforward.

These inspections are also a critical part of vehicle safety. Without them, drivers may unknowingly be putting themselves and others at risk, as equipment failures can cause accidents.

How Often Do You Need Maintenance Inspections?

Fleet managers should also know how often to perform these inspections to optimize their schedules. Since every vehicle carries unique maintenance needs, the FMCSA leaves some room for interpretation in this area. Fleets must perform inspections at least annually, but some emergency systems, like emergency doors, need inspections every 90 days.

For optimal performance and safety, inspections should be more frequent than the minimum requirement. Diesel vehicles require work less frequently than their gas counterparts, which can help save costs, but it’s still best to check them regularly. What this schedule should look like varies between use cases, but going by miles driven may be more effective than going by time.

What Should Maintenance Inspections Include?

When it comes time for the actual inspection, fleet managers should keep a few factors in mind. First, they can choose to either perform the inspection themselves or have a qualified third party do it. The former option may be more cost-effective, but it also requires a knowledge base and reporting system that smaller companies may not have.

Whether fleet managers perform their own inspections or rely on a third party, they should look for a few specific factors. Here’s a closer look at these specifics.

Qualified Inspectors

The FMCSA outlines some requirements for who can perform these maintenance inspections. These qualifications are fairly straightforward for most of the inspection process. Employees or third parties must have knowledge and proficiency in the necessary methods, procedures and tools, but the FMCSA doesn’t define what that specifically entails.

Brake inspection qualifications are more rigid. Brake inspectors must either complete a state, Canadian province or union-sponsored apprenticeship program or have at least one year’s experience in brake maintenance.

When looking for third-party inspectors, fleet managers should look for these qualifications or, ideally, higher standards. Similarly, if fleets inspect their own vehicles, they should require employees to meet these qualifications.

Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation

Fleet managers should also understand what specific components and systems they should check. The FMCSA says maintenance inspections must cover “parts and accessories which may affect safety,” which can apply to most parts of a vehicle. Inspectors can refer to the FMCSA’s extensive list of parts for reference, but the most important areas to cover are fairly evident.

Engines, steering systems, brakes, seatbelts, wheels and the like all fall under this scope. Some of these parts will require more regular inspection than others, so fleets should schedule inspections of varying depth. As for how often to inspect each area, it’s safest to go by the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Emergency Features

Vehicles with some extra emergency features need to undergo additional inspections, too. Many buses, for example, have systems like emergency doors, pushout windows and lights marking these features. If fleets have any vehicles with these types of systems, they need to check them every 90 days to ensure they work properly.

These emergency features can mean the difference between life and death in some scenarios, so the FMCSA takes them seriously. Fleet managers should likewise pay close attention to these systems, ensuring they receive more maintenance and inspection than other parts. If there’s anything wrong with them, fleets should repair or replace them as soon as possible.

Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports

Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) are another important part of maintenance inspections. These are reports that drivers write up at the end of each driving day that identify any potential issues they’ve noticed. Fleet managers likely already collect these records, but they must save them and ensure they meet standards to satisfy the FMCSA.

According to FMCSA guidelines, DVIRs should cover:

-Brakes

-Steering mechanisms

-Lighting devices and reflectors

-Tires

-Horns

-Windshield wipers

-Mirrors

-Coupling devices

-Wheels and rims

-Emergency equipment

Drivers can look at other parts and accessories, too, but these are the only required factors. If DVIRs report any issues, fleets must resolve them before operating the vehicle again.

Thorough Records

No matter what the specifics of a maintenance inspection look like, fleet managers must keep thorough records. Every time an employee performs a check, the company should record it in a safe, accessible place. If the fleet faces an audit from the FMCSA or needs to check the maintenance history to inform a repair, these records are crucial.

The FMCSA requires fleets to keep DVIRs for at least three months and records of annual and roadside inspections for at least a year. That will quickly add to a lot of storage, so fleet managers should consider using an electronic system for recording and organizing this information.

Fleets should also record any repairs they have to perform on vehicles. To help keep things organized, all reports should include vehicle identification information like the make, model, year and serial number.

Maintenance Inspections Are a Crucial Part of Fleet Management

Maintenance inspections can account for a significant portion of fleet operations. New fleet managers must understand these factors to prepare accordingly, enabling efficient, safe and compliant operations.

Every fleet’s maintenance inspections will look slightly different, but these general guidelines apply across every fleet. Managers should take these guidelines, then apply and adjust them to their specific situation. They can then meet relevant regulatory requirements and keep drivers safe.

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Let’s Hear It for Truckers.

September 21st, 2021 GT Staff Leave a comment

Given the industry’s shortage of truckers, and the mess that has created along the supply chain, mid-September’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week took on added meaning this year.

Palmetto, Florida’s Port Manatee treated more than 200 truckers to lunches and jam-packed goody bags on Sept. 17, the final day of the weeklong celebration.

“Port Manatee is truly blessed to be served by these devoted professional drivers,” said Reggie Bellamy, chairman of the Manatee County Port Authority. “Especially in these challenging times, truckers have gone above and beyond in demonstrating their commitment to keeping the supply chain running smoothly.”

A. Duie Pyle, a premier provider of asset and non-asset-based supply chain solutions, on Sept. 13 recognized 25 of its less-than-truckload (LTL) drivers for achieving the Million Mile Safe Driver milestone in 2020. Overall, the West Chester, Pennsylvania-based company has had 171 One Million Mile Drivers, 23 Two Million Mile Drivers, and two Three Million Mile Drivers.

“These drivers are true professionals,” said Pete Dannecker, Pyle’s VP of Risk and Integrated Resources, “and I congratulate them for their dedication to safe driving in the congested Northeastern metropolitan region in which A. Duie Pyle operates.”

Free grub, goody bags and safety recognition are nice, but one thing that is usually better appreciated is cold hard cash. That’s what Mark-it Express, an intermodal trucking and freight brokerage company headquartered in Lemont, Illinois, provided to its Land of Lincoln truckers effective Aug. 2 of this year.

“In appreciation for their loyalty, commitment and value the team,” the company announced Mark-it Express drivers in Illinois are now receiving $27 an hour without the Hazardous Materials endorsement and $30 an hour with the endorsement. Mark-it drivers at the Detroit and Kansas City terminals also got pay bumps. “We have been saying over and over that we appreciate our drivers and see how hard you are working,” said Mark-it President Tony Apa.

“Thank you all again–we wouldn’t be here without you.”

Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

How Fleet Managers Can Simplify Preventive Maintenance

September 20th, 2021 Dylan Berger Leave a comment

Preventive maintenance is essential for keeping a fleet on the road. By using a maintenance schedule and regularly inspecting essential vehicle components, fleet managers can extend the lifespan of their fleet vehicles and reduce unplanned downtime.

While preventive maintenance prevents costly repairs in the future, it can be both time-consuming and difficult to schedule in-the-moment. For managers, knowing how to streamline this maintenance approach will make it easier to avoid disruptions without making inspections or repairs less effective.

1. Digitize Paperwork and Scheduling

Administrative work can be one of the most time-consuming portions of preventive maintenance. Every inspection or repair generates paperwork that must be logged and stored properly to create effective records of maintenance.

Digital solutions can make storing, accessing, and analyzing this information much simpler. Support staff and mechanics can generate templates for common repairs using information from previous work, streamlining the process of documenting maintenance.

Once all information about the fleet is properly stored in the system, managers and technicians will be able to see at a glance all fleet vehicles and upcoming repairs, plus an overview of the business’s maintenance backlog. Having this information stored in one location will make it easier to track the movement of the fleet and forecast maintenance needs.

This technology can also simplify scheduling and planned downtime. By integrating a fleet management system with the scheduling system, fleet managers can more easily catch potential schedule conflicts and better plan maintenance-related downtime to minimize disruption.

2. Train Drivers

Effective maintenance practices can go to waste if drivers don’t know how their behavior can preserve fleet vehicles.

Harsh driving, for example, isn’t just dangerous. It can also have a real impact on vehicle health. Harsh braking can wear out brakes and trigger a vehicle’s automated braking system, potentially causing it to fail earlier. Harsh acceleration can reduce a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Idling is bad for the environment, can be in violation of local anti-idling ordinances, and may result in an under-lubricated engine, which can cause a wide range of problems in any vehicle.

Training fleet vehicle operators to drive in a way that minimizes these behaviors can reduce a business’s need for maintenance. For example, drivers should know how to cut down on their fuel use and facts about fuel efficiency, like the fact that idling uses more gas than shutting off and restarting an engine. They should also know how to avoid harsh braking and acceleration, as well as the impact these behaviors can have on their vehicle.

Often, vehicle telematics systems and tools like electronic logging devices (ELDs) include features that help managers monitor for harsh driving, idling, and other unwanted driver behaviors.

A dashcam, for example, connected to certain ELDs can monitor for distracted driving, hard braking, reckless turning, and speeding. Most telematics systems can detect idling and automatically alert drivers and managers.

3. Maintain Part and Equipment Inventory

Keeping a part and equipment inventory that’s up-to-date will streamline maintenance. Most preventive maintenance involves the same few common replacement parts — like a new oil filter, new battery, or new belt. If a fleet is mostly made up of the same types of vehicles, managers can keep the right spare parts on hand to reduce repair time and maintenance costs.

With a regularly updated inventory record, the maintenance team will be able to instantly see if they have those parts in stock and plan maintenance without having to manually check part storage. This can make it easier for a business to further streamline preventive maintenance.

This inventory system can also assist technicians and managers in culling obsolete or expired stock. These items will take up storage space, clutter workspaces and can make finding the right part more difficult.

Digital inventory solutions can make this process easier. Barcoding essential items and equipment, for example, will allow mechanics or support staff to quickly perform inventory counts and update equipment status in an inventory tracking system.

4. Perform Regular Tire Pressure Checks

Prioritizing certain maintenance tasks can prevent repairs and simplify checks down the road. Regularly checking tire pressure is probably one of the most important ones — tire pressure affects a massive range of vehicle characteristics, including handling, rate of tire wear, rate of suspension wear, and fuel economy. All of these factors can influence driver safety — handling or suspension issues can pose serious risks to drivers — and may require premature maintenance or fuel stops.

Changing air temperature can also raise or lower tire pressure, meaning tire pressure will change over time, even without a leak. Regular air pressure checks prevent underinflated tires and the risks they can come with.

Automatic tire inflation systems, which bundle together gauges and inflators, can make the process of regularly checking and filling tires more convenient if a business’s fleet management team currently relies on separate devices.

In addition to regular tire pressure checks, fleet managers can also use digital solutions to track tire pressure across the fleet. Modern vehicles often have tire pressure sensors that monitor the current pressure in each tire. A telematics system with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can help fleet managers and other staff access this data remotely and provide alerts when tire pressure for any fleet vehicle falls below a certain level.

5. Review Maintenance Data

A regular review of maintenance data will take time, but it’s the best way to spot recurring bottlenecks and process issues at a business.

For example, it’s not unusual for maintenance practices to generate process waste — like the waste generated when a poorly performed repair leads to additional work on a vehicle down the line. Identifying and removing the conditions that caused the poor repair will prevent these mistakes in the future.

Making maintenance records easy to store and access can help make this review a little simpler. If fleet managers know where all essential maintenance data is, they and their team won’t have to spend as much time prepping for the review.

The Right Practices Can Streamline Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is the gold standard for vehicle upkeep, but it can be both costly and time-consuming. Finding ways to streamline maintenance without sacrificing repair quality will help any fleet manager make their preventive maintenance strategy more efficient.

Digital maintenance and fleet management solutions are often useful in streamlining maintenance operations. Driver training and prioritizing specific types of maintenance — like tire pressure checks — will also be helpful.

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Hyundai Translead Taps PowerFleet Telematics to Launch HT LinkSense Platform

September 15th, 2021 PowerFleet, Inc. Leave a comment

PowerFleet, Inc. (Nasdaq: PWFL), a global leader and provider of subscription-based wireless IoT and M2M solutions for securing, controlling, tracking, and managing high-value enterprise assets, today announced Hyundai Translead, the leading van trailer manufacturer in North America, will be leveraging the PowerFleet LV-300 trailer tracking gateway solution to launch HT LinkSense. Through this integration with PowerFleet, HT LinkSense will be able to provide fleet managers with the flexibility to choose sensor and telematics solutions that meet their needs. Initially, the HT LinkSense solution will be available for the Hyundai Translead dry van line, but future expansion into refrigerated, flatbed, chassis and aftermarket products is planned.

“We are excited to partner with PowerFleet as we expand possibilities for customers in fleet data strategy by providing a scalable, open platform solution with HT LinkSense,” said Sean Kenney, Hyundai Translead’s Chief Sales Officer. “Through our partnership, we offer flexibility through universal connectivity of sensors for maximum fleet operational efficiency, making smart fleets smarter.”

The PowerFleet LV-300 asset tracking solution provides continuous real-time visibility while in transit, and more accurate arrival and departure information to better plan supply chain resource allocation. Connected by 4G LTE, it provides wireless reporting to ensure clients can receive continuous updates on the status and condition of their assets and important cargo. The LV-300 tethers to a power source and also utilizes a long-lasting rechargeable battery for untethered operation and features tamper detection for increased security.

“We are honored that Hyundai Translead has selected PowerFleet as a key part of its HT LinkSense solution for trailers,” explains Chris Wolfe, CEO of PowerFleet. “Our integrated logistics solutions will enable customers to access a more holistic view of their trailers and freight status by capturing critical sensor and telematics data. By leveraging our trusted telematics platform, analytics and real-time reporting capabilities, Hyundai Translead will raise the bar with its’ HT LinkSense offering by delivering high-value asset information to the transportation industry.”

______________________________________________________________________

About PowerFleet
PowerFleet® Inc. (NASDAQ: PWFL; TASE: PWFL) is a global leader and provider of subscription-based wireless IoT and M2M solutions for securing, controlling, tracking, and managing high-value enterprise assets such as industrial trucks, tractor trailers, containers, cargo, and vehicles and truck fleets. The company is headquartered in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, with offices located around the globe. PowerFleet’s patented technologies address the needs of organizations to monitor and analyze their assets to increase efficiency and productivity, reduce costs, and improve profitability. Our offerings are sold under the global brands PowerFleet, Pointer, and Cellocator. For more information, please visit www.powerfleet.com, the content of which does not form a part of this press release.

About Hyundai Translead

Hyundai Translead is the leading van trailer manufacturer in North America. The company manufactures dry and refrigerated van trailers as well as flatbeds, chassis, and dollies. Founded in 1989, Hyundai Translead is 100% owned by Hyundai Motor Group and is headquartered in San Diego, CA. For more information, please visit www.hyundaitranslead.com

PowerFleet Company Contact
Ned Mavrommatis, CFO
NMavrommatis@powerfleet.com
(201) 996-9000

PowerFleet Investor Contact
Matt Glover
Gateway Investor Relations
PWFL@gatewayir.com
(949) 574-3860

PowerFleet Media Contact
Jacqueline Agudelo
powerfleet@n6a.com

Sygic Partners with Samsara to Enable GPS Navigation Solutions on the Connected Operations Cloud

1. Checking Brake Pads

2. Battery Testing

3. Considering Idle Time

4. Preventing Corrosion on Underride Guards

5. Refrigerated Trailer Maintenance

6. Testing Collision Sensors

7. Looking for Leaks in Fluid Hoses

8. Downloading Software Updates

Don’t Overlook These Maintenance Steps

1. Bank Loans

2. Alternative Lenders

3. Direct Truck Loans

4. Leasing

5. Franchising

6. Invoice Factoring

7. Quick Pay

Truck Fleets Have Many Financing Options

The State of Impaired Driving in Trucking

Implement Strict Policies

Install Ignition Interlocks

Monitor Impairment Risk in Hiring

Improve Education

Minimize Related Risk Factors

Reducing Impaired Driving Is a Must for Fleet Managers

Benefits of Effective Trailer Tracking

Tips for Choosing the Best Trailer Tracking Technology

Trailer Tracking Hardware Tips

Yard Management Tips

Best Practices for Effective Trailer Tracking

Why Businesses Use GPS Tracking for Fleet Management

Automating Maintenance With GPS Tracking

How GPS Tracking Makes Maintenance Automation Possible

Integrating GPS With Other Maintenance Automation Tools

Using GPS to Improve and Automate Fleet Maintenance

Why are Maintenance Inspections Necessary?

How Often Do You Need Maintenance Inspections?

What Should Maintenance Inspections Include?

Qualified Inspectors

Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation

Emergency Features

Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports

Thorough Records

Maintenance Inspections Are a Crucial Part of Fleet Management

1. Digitize Paperwork and Scheduling

2. Train Drivers

3. Maintain Part and Equipment Inventory

4. Perform Regular Tire Pressure Checks

5. Review Maintenance Data

The Right Practices Can Streamline Preventive Maintenance

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