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Three Ways Location Data is Creating In-roads for Driver Safety and Efficiency

Location Data
Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Three Ways Location Data is Creating In-roads for Driver Safety and Efficiency

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Ensuring a safety-first work culture is essential for those within the transportation and logistics (T&L) industry. In fact, according to the latest National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in the United States, more than one in seven on-the-job deaths occur in the heavy-duty trucking industry. When mapped, approximately 10,000 truck crashes occur every month, across nearly all 50 states.

In today’s interconnected, global supply chain and “need-it-now” world, expectations for delivery windows are shortening, thereby challenging fleet managers to balance increasing fleet speed and efficiency — without sacrificing drivers’ safety.

As a result, many are looking to location data to provide real-time intelligence to inform everything from driver behavior analyses to improved workload scheduling. Here are three ways location intelligence is paving the road for faster, safer, and more efficient fleets.

1. Enhanced driver behavior analyses

It’s imperative fleet owners implement safety-focused measures not only to protect their employees but their businesses as well.

Fleet owners are creating more risk-averse fleets by performing regular analyses of driver behavior using location data. Through real-time analytics and insights provided, fleet managers can compare geospatial (e.g. road features and weather conditions) and other legal factors (e.g. posted speed limits) against an employee’s typical driving habits to make a proper assessment of an employee’s driving behavior.

Additionally, by performing regular analyses of driver behavior, fleet managers can work with employees to improve their driving behaviors and reward these positive habits to ensure they stick going forward – including everything from good driver incentive programs to additional vacation days or even cash bonuses. Along with improvements to overall workplace collaboration and culture, these types of incentive programs can also and lead to better company savings through reduced insurance premiums for good drivers.

2. Increased road condition awareness

Weather conditions can change in a matter of seconds. While snow or extra gravel on the road may serve as minor nuisances for the everyday driver, these types of debris can heavily impact the safety and efficiency of those driving over 6,000 lb. of steel.

To better protect drivers from hazardous road conditions, fleet owners have invested in truck navigation systems equipped with robust location intelligence in order to ensure drivers are navigating through safe and optimal routes. These systems provide up-to-date geospatial and weather data, allowing fleet owners to generate optimal delivery routes avoiding dangerous road conditions or other factors interfering with the delivery process. Simultaneously, the real-time location intelligence these platforms provide can help inform drivers of any sudden accidents, lane closures or even extreme weather.

Take for example a logistics company assigned to transport medical supplies from the East to West Coast in the dead of winter. Prior to the trip, a fleet manager can use a system equipped with real-time location data to create the optimal route avoiding significant weather conditions or road closures for their fleet. Then, if any other spontaneous weather or hazardous road conditions arise while a driver’s on the job, they can reference the data from their truck navigation system and work with their dispatch team to quickly adjust the route to ensure the job is completed in a safe and timely manner.

3. Improved workload scheduling

Workload scheduling for fleets is more complicated than one may think. Outside the challenges of route planning itself, fleet owners must factor in rest time for drivers – including specific areas for drivers to park, rest, eat and even shower. Additionally, fleet managers need to ensure work schedules abide by ELD mandates and are the most fuel and time-efficient from a cost perspective. If a workload schedule doesn’t account for all these factors, fleet owners could face more than just an angry complaint from an employee.

In order to both streamline workload scheduling efforts and ensure the safety of employees, fleet owners are turning to workload scheduling software to facilitate this routine task. These types of software platforms are enterprise-grade and provide real-time location intelligence, making them the optimal solution for fleet managers to effectively plan routes and schedules before drivers leave for their journeys.

As seen by the versatile applications of location intelligence, it’s clear how this modern-day solution is helping commercial fleet operators improve safety protocols within their company. While it may be easier for professionals within the T&L space to use native mapping software found on computers or mobile devices, these programs do not provide the essential intelligence needed in order to plan and facilitate optimal delivery routes. As a result, it’s imperative for fleet owners to look into commercial-grade platforms equipped with location intelligence to create safer work environments going forward.

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Erminio Di Paola has been with HERE for the past 10 years starting his career as Director of Sales Support, then becoming Senior Director product management and most recently as VP Head of Fleet and Supply-Chain solutions. Erminio comes to HERE bringing over a decade of international experience from TomTom and TeleAtlas with a focus on building location-based services and applications while working with different business functions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and an International Executive MBA (SDA Bocconi/UCLA/Fudan).

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DESPITE MANY CHALLENGES, TRUCKERS ARE KEEPING THE SUPPLY CHAIN MOVING. HERE IS HOW.

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Of all the lessons learned from the pandemic, the critical role of supply chain workers remains among the most significant. Simply put, without the people keeping things moving, the supply chain suffers. Truckers are among supply chain workers who represent industry resilience, ensuring deliveries and shipments are fulfilled before, during and after COVID-19. 

However, protecting truck drivers has become less of a thought and more of a formality in the new normal. We looked to Avi Geller, CEO and founder of Maven Machines, to give us an idea of exactly how truck drivers are handling the new logistics climate and what companies can do to further protect, support and retain their workers. 

“The pandemic has had a substantial impact on the trucking industry, requiring fleets to accelerate digital transformation efforts like the widespread adoption of data and AI-based technologies,” Geller said. “Increased demand since 2020, coupled with an ongoing driver shortage, has forced fleets to reevaluate processes, plans and current levels of efficiency. Route optimization and planning technology can automatically provide managers with the best possible plans by considering variables such as traffic, road quality and weather. As route optimization tech becomes more advanced, driver preferences and proficiencies can also be taken into account as variables in machine learning algorithms.”

Geller goes on to explain that in 2021, the stakes are higher than ever before. Companies no longer have room for error when it comes to compliance and transport conditions. And with the surge of demand in pharmaceutical transportation for the COVID vaccine, the transportation sector is under even more pressure to quickly deliver vaccines at accurate temperatures while keeping employees safe. Utilizing technology solutions to keep up with demand and meet shipment requirements will be a significant game-changer for many. 

“Companies must ensure that their drivers adhere to compliance mandates and delivery timelines,” Geller observes. “For instance, COVID-19 vaccines require super cold storage temperatures. Drivers carrying vaccines must follow the appropriate shipping protocols and reach their destinations on time to prevent costly disruptions to the super cold supply chain. More than ever, drivers are relying on fleet management software to increase productivity and using route optimization and workflow technologies to their advantage.”

If retaining drivers was not already an issue, recruiting qualified drivers continues to be a pain point for the trucking industry. And with COVID-19 now in the mix, fleet managers are seeing more of their drivers leaving and a shortage of talent to quickly replace them.

“The trucking industry’s largest challenge today is the shortage of qualified drivers,” Geller says. “We cannot afford to lose drivers, but more are leaving the field than we are able to replace. We need to continue to find ways to revitalize the driver workforce and encourage people to join the profession. The pandemic has only highlighted our dependency on these employees, who are some of the economy’s most essential workers.”

Geller reiterates the importance of providing drivers with an experience that stands out from competing sectors, including providing accommodative tech solutions to minimize redundancies and maintain driver safety as a priority instead of an afterthought.  

“To stop the driver attrition and attract more drivers, fleets must prioritize the driver experience—and the right technology can help them do so,” he says. “Route optimization, ELD, and fleet workflow software foster a safer, more productive work environment by providing drivers with the fastest routes, automating the most tedious tasks, ensuring compliance, and presenting stop-based forms and step-by-step workflows that help them progress smoothly through their assigned trips and ETAs. By better positioning drivers for success, fleets can improve driver satisfaction and give drivers opportunities to be rewarded with pay increases and safety bonuses, which could lead to increased driver recruitment and retainment.

Streamlining operations and communications in the new normal is simply not an option for companies that want to last. The phases of adaptation are behind us.”

Those companies that are left standing in 2021 must continue to advocate for workers while providing a competitive edge for customers through the effective use of technology and automation. Geller’s company, Maven Machines, puts drivers first with their specialized and tailored solutions that optimize operations starting at dispatch all the way through.

“Maven Machines provides fleets with solutions that increase efficiency and elevate their drivers’ work experiences,” he says. “Our solutions for dispatch, route planning, workflow, ELD and fleet management software facilitate driver and trip management while also meeting each fleet’s unique set of operational needs. By eliminating outdated legacy solutions and processes, we are helping to increase fleet success, including driver performance.”

Among the applications tailored specifically for drivers are large, color-coded buttons, alerts, document imaging tools and other utilities that drivers can rely on for communications. Geller states that this technology provides a safe, reliable way for drivers to focus on driving and still manage communications expectations.

“A streamlined messaging system for drivers to communicate with managers, along with other smart features and intuitive user interfaces, keeps drivers safe, on task and satisfied. The driver experience is important, and we’re proud to support drivers with our software.”

For every company, the customer comes first (after the workers, of course). It is important to ensure your solutions portfolio is flexible, adding to the customer experience instead of further complicating it. Maven Machine’s adaptable solution provides solutions for different customer requirements.

“Different customers require different processes, so our flexible Maven Workflow solution takes that into account and provides drivers with the right workflow for their stops and trips,” Geller says. “It is a game-changer in terms of driver productivity. Our dispatch and route optimization software provide drivers with the fastest and safest routes so that they can make more on-time pickups and deliveries. With Maven ELD, drivers use a simple mobile HOS app that allows for faster log editing, helps them reduce HOS violations, and ensures FMCSA compliance.”

In conclusion, providing a safe, reliable, and pleasant experience for drivers and customers is not a new concept. Some would argue that it has always been a priority while others claim it took the pandemic to bring back the saying that when you take care of the workers, they take care of business. 

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Avi Geller is the founder and CEO of Maven Machines. Since 2014, he has led Maven’s growth as an IoT platform that serves the transportation industry through real-time, mobile cloud enterprise software. Avi originally hails from Palo Alto, California, but he started Maven in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, due to the city’s impressive innovation and technology resources. Prior to founding Maven, he held international positions with SAP and contributed to the growth of several successful software companies and startups. Avi has an engineering degree from MIT and an MBA from Northwestern University.

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3pls, Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Things To Consider Before Starting a Logistics Business

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Are you thinking of starting your own business? Then a transport and logistics business can be a good option because it’s booming at this moment and its growth is not going to come to a halt as people are now more inclined towards things being brought to them at their doorsteps without having to venture out and spend time in doing so. But there are certain things to consider before you finally get ready to start.

Build a customer base

It is seen that people start their business with little capital and solely rely on the revenue to be generated to cover all the incurring costs. In this way, they taste failure at a very early stage of their endeavor. The first and foremost thing to do would be to build a strong customer base by portraying the business plan as transport contacts don’t happen just from anywhere or at any time.

Consider the capital and the cost

Decide on the source of the capital you are thinking of to start the business. It may be from an investor. A bank loan can also be a good option. Considering investing money from your savings should be the last resort. Once the initial capital arrives, chalk out a budget that will cover expenses like maintenance cost, license cost, staff salaries, toll expenses, operating costs, etc. Marketing your business may be too early to think of but that will also involve a lot of money later. Besides, you will have to arrange for the security deposits for the vehicles (if you intend to take lease) you would be using. Insurance cost is another yearly expense to be kept in mind.

So, accurately managing the capital is the most crucial thing to do at the onset of your business. If you succeed in doing so, then you are sure to gain recognition as a reputed transport and logistics association in no time.

Buy the right vehicles

If you are thinking of buying a fleet of vehicles for the business, you should minutely go through the service plans and the warranty the vehicle company is willing to offer. Purchasing the right vehicles depends on two major factors –

a) The type of goods you would be transferring

b) The volume of the supplies the vehicles would be carrying

c) The area (or the distance) you want to cover initially while transporting the goods

d) The terrains your vehicles would be covering

There are other factors to look for before buying the vehicles, but summed up above are the most important ones. Once you have these things sorted out you can easily figure out how to run the business efficiently.

Get a proper training

As a newcomer in this business, you might lack confidence. So, you can get proper professional training carried out by various transport agencies. They will provide you with a certificate after the training process which will give you the much-needed qualification for the business.

Conclusion

Whether you are intending to start with a small van or a huge fleet of trucks, you might face tough competition from your fellow businessmen. Always look for ways to improve your business status. Keeping your customers satisfied should be your priority, not only in this business but in every business.

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Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Artificial Intelligence: The Trucking Industry’s Biggest Asset

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About 3.6 million professional truck drivers and another 7.95 million people work in the U.S. trucking industry. It’s an industry well-positioned to benefit from artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Research firm MarketsandMarkets estimates the AI market within the transportation industry will grow at a compound annual growth rate of almost 18% between 2017 and 2030, and its size increase from $1.2 billion in 2017 to $10.3 billion in 2030.

Truck manufacturers including Daimler, Volvo, Navistar, Paccar and others, have already begun developing autonomous truck technology, for example. Waymo, an American autonomous driving technology development company has also installed self-driving technology in semi-trucks and plans to test on haulage routes in New Mexico and Texas. Tesla plans to deliver its first trucks in 2021. Pittsburgh-based Locomotion, an autonomous trucking technology company, expects to equip at least 1,120 Wilson Logistics tractors with its Autonomous Relay Convoy (ARC) technology starting in 2022.

In addition to autonomous driving, the trucking industry has the potential to reap many benefits from AI technology in accident prevention and safety, fuel efficiency, route optimization and workflow management.

Accident prevention and safety

One hundred percent autonomous driving may be a ways off, but already we’re seeing safety controls incorporated into trucks. For example, a Tesla computer will control its trucks’ semi-autonomous system for accelerating, brakes and steering — though drivers will still need to keep a hand on the wheel.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) revised its HOS to provide more flexibility for drivers. However, many drivers still log 11 hours on the road each day — the potential for mistakes increases during the later period of a driving shift. AI-guided semi-autonomous trucks will help reduce safety hazards created from tired or distracted driving.

Fuel efficiency

One commercial truck can use over $70,000 of fuel each year. Multiply this amount by the number of trucks in a fleet, and you can see why trucking companies constantly search for strategies to improve fuel efficiency. AI-guided, self-driven trucks could cut fuel costs up to 15%, according to Plus (formerly Plus.ai). A U.C. Berkeley Labor Center report estimated the industry could save $35 billion in fuel efficiency gains. Additionally, fuel monitoring and idle reporting features within AI-powered fleet management software platforms can help managers monitor fuel usage to reduce waste and costs.

Fleet management and route optimization

AI offers the perfect partner for fleet managers, increasing their effectiveness and helping to streamline and make processes more efficient. For example, these technologies can detect patterns humans might miss, increasing productivity by more accurately pinpointing which drivers to assign certain loads.

Route optimization benefits from AI, too. The technology streamlines route optimization, minimizing drive time and mileage by enabling fleet managers and drivers to find the most efficient, quickest order to schedule stops. AI can process traffic patterns and use algorithms to predict delays, even alerting dispatchers and managers earlier to facilitate load rescheduling or driver rerouting.

Drivers, fleet managers and customers benefit from AI-driven software capable of using real-time data about traffic, weather, and historical data on transit times to provide more accurate ETAs. Because AI constantly evolves, route optimization will become even more streamlined.

Workflow technology

The trucking industry has already benefited from many technology solutions designed to increase productivity and efficiency.

Drivers and fleets can use AI — together with cloud computing, machine learning (ML) and IoT — to move from paper management to digital management processes. Other technology has enabled fleets to identify customers affected by import tariffs, for example, and connect with those customers to develop mitigation strategies.

AI doesn’t just observe data or patterns. It’s capable of predicting potential scenarios based on past patterns. Workflow and fleet management software incorporating AI technology can help drivers and fleet managers with real-time navigation, data monitoring and predictive maintenance alerts. The future of AI within the trucking industry could include other businesses like capacity-as-a-service, predictive on-demand maintenance and shared insurance optimization.

AI’s future in the trucking industry

CB Insights reported that investors dedicated $2 billion to trucking tech startups in spring 2019. The transport and logistics sector represents $26 billion of total startup funding in the logistics industry.

Artificial intelligence has already begun to deliver on its promise to increase productivity, reliability, safety and sustainability within the trucking sector. While not a turnkey solution, AI technology relies on human knowledge to understand what to do. AI won’t replace people — it will reshape their roles and improve their work processes. AI is revolutionizing the trucking industry and promising to not just drive efficiency, but also better experiences for fleet management, drivers, customers and other critical stakeholders.

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Avi Geller is the founder and CEO of Maven Machines. Since 2014, Avi has led Maven’s growth as an IoT platform that serves the transportation industry through real-time, mobile cloud enterprise software. Avi originally hails from Palo Alto, California, but started Maven in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania due to the city’s impressive innovation and technology resources. Prior to founding Maven, he held international positions with SAP and contributed to the growth of several successful software companies and startups. Avi also has an engineering degree from MIT and an MBA from Northwestern University.

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Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Introducing FleetCheck: An Indicator of the Health of Your Fleet

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In an industry currently struggling with finding and hiring drivers, it grows more and more painful seeing your drivers inexplicably leave — especially when you have a gnawing feeling it probably could have been prevented with a simple conversation.

Not knowing what you don’t know is frustrating, but when viewed through the right lens it’s like so many things in life – an opportunity to improve. It’s not a revolutionary idea that you should want to focus on keeping the drivers you have and learn more about the issues they encounter that make their jobs difficult. Fortunately, the time to implement a retention program that listens to drivers’ needs couldn’t be better.

Putting a plan in place to effectively improve driver retention is easier than it sounds, and with the introduction of Insights earlier this year, Tenstreet clients now have a clearer view into what drivers experience at four distinct stages in their lifecycles. But what about getting a good read on your fleet as a whole, and on a more frequent basis?

Checking the oil in your fleet

Your fleet is the engine that keeps your company moving. If you neglect to regularly check the oil in your car, you run the risk of damaging vital engine parts, which could lead to expensive repairs or even a total replacement. Just like using a dipstick to check oil levels in your car gives you a good indicator of your engine’s health, you need a way to regularly check the overall health of your fleet.

Today, we’re introducing a new retention survey to our Insights platform that gives you a look into all the moving parts of your company. Our new FleetCheck survey module works similarly to an NPS tool in that it sends an anonymous two-question survey to your drivers once a week (or twice, depending on your preference). It gives you visibility into the current condition of your fleet at a regular frequency to show you immediately whether your fleet is running smoothly or if it needs something more to keep it going strong.

How surveys help you retain drivers

When drivers take your FleetCheck surveys, dashboard reporting automatically compiles the results, showing you an overall ranking, how many drivers responded, which drivers have not responded, and which drivers are detractors (or gave a below average score) – which may indicate an at-risk driver who could be saved with an intervention. Detractors are given the option of foregoing their anonymity should they wish to discuss their issue 1-on-1 with their manager.

You’ll also be able to see the satisfaction levels of your fleet week-over-week and month-over-month, connecting carrier and industry events to general driver sentiment–helping with that bigger picture objective–and ensuring your fleet is well-lubricated with everything it needs to give it power to drive.

As drivers start to see their feedback put into action, they’re more likely to feel like a valuable contributor in the organization and will grow more empowered to share things they otherwise might keep to themselves. Strengthening the driver-carrier connection cultivates a more dependable and loyal driver base, and ensures you get the most miles out of your fleet.

Finding and hiring drivers requires time, resources, and capital – all of which are wasted when drivers leave because nobody’s listening. Find out what you don’t know by checking in with your fleet. When drivers and carriers are communicating regularly, retention rates improve, trucks stay full, and your company runs more smoothly.

Need help building a retention solution?

Complement FleetCheck with additional Insights surveys to get a more holistic view of a driver’s sentiment both across his tenure and at specific stages therein.

Not sure what you need or how to get started? Reach out to us today! Our industry-experienced team will help you create a plan to help you listen to your drivers so they stay with you for the long haul.

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6 Safety Tips for Transporting Oversized Loads

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Stepping behind the wheel of a transport vehicle is dangerous enough, but when oversized loads are added to the mix, the risks are exponentially increased. Hauling these, whether across long or short distances, is no joke. It’s difficult and stressful, and there are many elements to consider, including traffic, road hazards and weather conditions.

That’s why it’s important that every driver understands, and is armed with, some safety tips to improve the experience. Here’s what every truck operator should know before hitting the highway with an oversized load.

1. Plan the Route Ahead of Time

Planning the route is a no-brainer, and modern technologies can be used to do it smarter and better. Logistics and route-planning tools can be used to research traffic, hazards, weather conditions, construction and any other encounters one might come across on the open road. Most importantly, drivers should always have a set of contingencies handy that allows them to choose alternate routes or roadways because there’s no telling what may happen.

Whether it’s the primary choice or an alternative, every route plan should include information about travel times, delays, fueling locations, and break spots. It’s important to think about every possible factor when planning the route. Not having a stringent refueling plan in place can balloon transportation costs, as drivers are forced to go out of their way or choose fueling stations that are less than ideal or overpriced.

2. Know the Weather

It doesn’t matter whether drivers use their smartphones or listen to the radio — they should always have a beat on the local weather and any upcoming changes. The entire forecast should be referenced and recorded before the drive. Any updates or changes should also be monitored throughout the journey. Some loads cannot be exposed to inclement weather, so it’s vital to avoid rainy, overcast or muggy areas.

Hauling oversized loads should never happen in extreme weather conditions, except in rare circumstances, such as a major emergency. If possible, find a rest stop to wait out the storm and hit the road when it’s safe to travel again.

3. Reference the Laws

There are rules and regulations about hauling oversized loads or items. Drivers and their sponsors must abide by those laws at all times. Nearly every state, province, and country has custom and defined dimensions for what constitutes an oversized load. Most describe it as anything wider than 8.5 feet, which takes up a substantial portion of the driving or travel lanes on roadways. Weight and height limitations may also apply, and it’s up to the drivers to know them.

Furthermore, hauling oversized loads requires a permit, which details the origin of the shipment and its destination. Driving without one can result in severe fines and sometimes other penalties and may even come with a license suspension for the driver. It’s important to keep all documentation updated before, during and after a haul.

4. Use the Right Securement

When hauling loads of any size, it’s critical to keep the pieces, items or components locked down and secured. There are many different types of fastening devices, from ropes and straps to friction mats and binders. They’re not always interchangeable, and sometimes those devices are not ideal for certain loads or gear. It’s up to the drivers to know which securement tools are best for a particular load. Using the wrong devices can have major repercussions and may or may not lead to the heavy load falling off the trailer or transport.

What’s more, those devices should be inspected regularly to ensure they’re in proper working order and have not been damaged in any way. This should be done before and after a haul, and any broken or failing items should be replaced right away.

5. Drive Defensively

It’s important to drive defensively and safely when hauling oversized loads. This is not to be confused with going slowly. It can seem safer to maintain slower speeds, but that’s a misconception, more so on highways and major roadways. It’s best to drive at the recommended speed limit and to remain in lanes that are expressly labeled for trucks — sometimes, there are dedicated lanes you must stay in with an oversized haul.

Drivers should make a habit of checking their speed regularly during a trip. They should also maintain a safe stopping distance that’s far enough away from vehicles and other cars nearby.

6. Proactive Maintenance

The last thing anyone wants during an oversized haul is for the truck to malfunction or break down. It’s important to carry out proactive maintenance on a vehicle or fleet before a big trip to prevent that from happening. Fluids should be topped up and monitored, the tires should be checked, spare parts and gear should be added to the truck, and basic maintenance should be handled.

Another facet of this is to have a service plan at the ready if and when something does happen. Drivers should always know who to call and where to go to get their vehicles serviced or where the much-needed support is going to come from. That can be something researched when building the initial route plan, or it can be information that’s gathered and recorded over time. Either way, every driver should know what to do if their truck breaks down.

Be Safe When Hauling Oversized Loads

Proper planning is crucial to a successful trip. It’s vital to plan the route and situational factors, research local weather conditions and work around them, drive defensively, and use the correct securements. It’s also important to know and understand the laws and keep all permits and documentation up to date. Proactive maintenance should be followed to keep the trucks or fleet in tip-top shape. Every driver should have a plan of action if and when their vehicle breaks down or malfunctions.

By knowing and adhering to these safety guidelines, drivers can secure their health and success while hauling oversized loads. That assurance alone is worth its weight in gold.

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Emily Newton is an industrial journalist. As Editor-in-Chief of Revolutionized, she regularly covers how technology is changing the industry.

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Heavy-Duty Trucks Market: Top Key Trends Fostering the Industry Outlook through 2026

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The heavy-duty trucks market size is poised to expand at substantial CAGR during the forecast period. With the incorporation of advanced technologies including IoT, AI, smart navigation systems, and accident prevention technologies, the heavy-duty trucks industry worldwide is sure to undergo expansion. Focus on emission reduction, environmental sustainability, and efficient engines is expected to drive the demand for these trucks over the forthcoming years.

The following ten major factors have been observed across the heavy-duty trucks industry outlook:

Government investments in infrastructural activities in the Asia Pacific

With the thriving construction and real estate sector of countries such as India, South Korea, and China, heavy-duty trucks are expected to see a greater deployment rate in the next few years. By 2026, the Asia Pacific market share should have gained substantially from the numerous government investments and initiatives toward the promotion of construction activities in the region.

This includes the allotment of a massive government expenditure toward digitalization, integration of artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), 5G networks, and intercity transportation networks.

Scrappage policy to boost India’s expansion

As part of the focus on economic recovery, the Indian government has been intending to incentivize heavy-duty truck owners to purchase new heavy-duty trucks and other commercial vehicles, discouraging usage of old, polluting ones via its new scrappage policy in Budget 2021.

The move will not only ensure lower pollution rates but also encourage the advancement of the heavy-trucks segment of the commercial vehicle market, which has been witnessing a decline in the past two years across the nation. The Indian market is likely to gain considerable revenue, thanks to the proposal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to provide new heavy-duty trucks with a discount of road tax as well as a waiver of the registration fee.

Growing demand for diesel heavy-duty trucks

The diesel engine segment of the APAC heavy-duty trucks market is expected to witness a significant expansion through the projected timeline, by credit to the lower fuel consumption alongside the higher efficiency of these engines when compared with gasoline trucks. Integration with compression-ignition of these trucks ensures their fuel efficiency. The lower costs and easy availability of diesel are likely to boost the demand for diesel-powered heavy-duty trucks in the upcoming years across APAC.

Focus on product launches across the Asia Pacific

Several industry leaders in the APAC heavy-duty trucks industry have been seeking to expand their presence through product launches. For instance, in June 2020, Mahindra introduced its Blazo X, a commercial truck with optimized fuel efficiency, across India. Similarly, in January 2021, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) launched its new heavy-duty specialized refrigerated truck for safely and efficiently transporting COVID-19 vaccines throughout India.

U.S. auto sector to flesh out higher gains

The heavy-duty trucks market in the U.S. has been exhibiting growth due to higher demand for transportation of cargo and goods, generating more revenue. The American Trucking Association (ATA) findings reveal that over 71% of the freight tonnage across the U.S. is transported using trucks. The thriving cross-border trade between the U.S. and neighboring countries is expected to boost the North American heavy-duty trucks market size.

Integration with ADAS technologies in North America

With technologically advanced heavy-duty trucks being developed by the leading manufacturers across the region, the market in North America is sure to soar. The focus on driver assistance and automation technologies has been a major trend defining the market’s progress. Recently, heavy-duty truck manufacturers have been prioritizing accident prevention and blind-spot monitoring through the adoption of ADAS systems in their product offerings.

Expanding demand for 4×2 axle heavy-duty trucks in Europe

Big trucks with multiple axles offer a better driving experience than single axle trucks. The demand for these vehicles has been spiraling across Europe’s heavy-duty trucks market. There is a growing utilization of 4×2 axle heavy-duty trucks, primarily triggered by the stringent regulatory policies of the European Commission. The EU has enforced permissible weight carriage as per the axle count of heavy-duty trucks.

300-400 horsepower trucks to gain traction across Europe

Owing to the advantages of 300-400 horsepower trucks, the demand for these vehicles has been witnessing an uptick. These trucks feature superior fuel efficiency alongside a lower engine weight. The segment is expected to surge at a high CAGR through the forecast years, due to their comparatively lower costs and enhanced abilities to haul heavy loads.

Hefty penalties for non-compliance with EU standards

Numerous heavy-duty truck manufacturers in Europe have been investing in the integration of innovative technologies aiming at achieving the zero-emission target from 2025 onward, in order to avoid payment of hefty penalties for non-compliance with EU standards. Recently, the EU has announced the adoption of carbon-neutrality targets and standards for heavy-duty trucks.

These include a 15% reduction from 2025, which will augment to 30% by 2030, attaining zero emissions by 2050. The implementation of such regulatory frameworks is certain to flesh out more demand for electrified trucks across the European region.

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Old Dominion Freight Line adds Daimler’s 2021 Freightliner Ride of Pride Tractor, Honoring U.S. Military, to its Fleet

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Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. (Nasdaq: ODFL) took delivery of a specially-wrapped 2022 Freightliner Cascadia tractor as part of manufacturer Daimler Trucks’ 2021 Ride of Pride program. The tractor’s patriotic design honors America’s veterans, some of whom will have the chance to drive the tractor as it crosses the country over the next several years.

The Ride of Pride program launched several months after the 9/11 tragedy, as designers at Daimler’s Cleveland, N.C. plant considered ways to honor past, present and future military veterans, with an emphasis on POW/MIA service members. The first tractor, “Eagle One,” took to the road in 2002, and the unveiling of each year’s Ride of Pride trucks has been a Memorial Day tradition ever since. Daimler has now produced more than 30 Ride of Pride tractors for carriers across the U.S. Old Dominion took delivery of its first Ride of Pride Truck in a presentation at its corporate office in Thomasville.

“Each of these tractors is built with P.R.I.D.E. – passion, respect, integrity, discipline and excellence. Those are the tenets our veterans follow when they’re serving our country, and we want the tractor to represent each one of them,” said Darrell Plonk, logistics manager at Daimler’s Cleveland, N.C. Freightliner plant.

Old Dominion’s Ride of Pride tractor begins its journey this month at the carrier’s Greensboro, N.C. service center, where it will haul freight for the next six months. After that, it will rotate to a different Old Dominion service center biannually and will be driven by veterans at each facility.

“Veterans are a core part of the OD Family, and we’re proud we have the chance to honor our service members in such a unique way,” said Jim Raynor, vice president of maintenance and equipment at Old Dominion Freight Line. “Whether the tractor is at one of our service centers, on the road to its destination, or at a customer’s dock, we hope it will serve as a reminder to those who see it of the debt we owe those who have served our country.”

To learn more about Daimler’s Ride of Pride tractors, visit the program’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RideofPride. To learn more about Old Dominion Freight Line, visit www.odfl.com.

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About Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is one of the largest North American less-than-truckload (“LTL”) motor carriers and provides regional, inter-regional and national LTL services through a single integrated, union-free organization. Our service offerings, which include expedited transportation, are provided through an expansive network of service centers located throughout the continental United States. The Company also maintains strategic alliances with other carriers to provide LTL services throughout North America. In addition to its core LTL services, the Company offers a range of value-added services including container drayage, truckload brokerage and supply chain consulting.

trucking
Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Digital Trends for the Trucking Industry in 2021

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The first quarter of a new year is a great time for fleet leaders to reflect on how their current plans for the year are going and then adjust accordingly if needed. What’s working for you? What should you stop doing? What should you start doing?

For the trucking industry, one trend for 2021 is clear. Digital is the way forward. While fleet management software has been on the scene for a few years, some parts of the supply chain still rely on analog processes and clunky, legacy solutions. The pandemic added additional stress in the logistics industry, largely due to volume fluctuations, and highlighted the need for better technology that will help drive more efficient logistics operations.

Automation

A specific growth area of trucking technology is the adoption of solutions that use AI and ML for automation. AI-powered, cloud-based solutions for route optimization will take some of the headache out of a route planner’s job by helping planners match the right driver and load with the best route. Route optimization tech can deliver an optimized route for the driver in just a few clicks.

By adopting automated route planning and optimization software, planners will then be able to focus on exceptional cases, while still being able to adjust routes manually if needed.

Data and analytics

A positive byproduct of digital transformation and technology adoption is increased access to data. Despite data making its way into nearly every industry to optimize workflow, improve business processes, and increase revenue, only 23 percent of fleets use data to inform decision-making. Because of the heavy demand for drivers and fleets, especially due to the current qualified driver shortage, fleets need to leverage AI, driver-specific metrics, and cloud management software to create more informed and productive drivers and plans.

Fleets have not always utilized data and analytics to their advantage. Fleets can now leverage real-time, cloud-based software and data to decrease planning time and optimize operations so that drivers can make more deliveries in less time. The demand for real-time visibility and on-time pickups and deliveries by shippers and receivers is only increasing, and the bar for fleets to compete successfully is getting higher.

Digital transformation

Fleets across the spectrum, from truckload to LTL and final mile, need technology solutions to work as efficiently as possible to empower their planners, drivers, and managers, from anywhere, at any time. They need to move to the cloud for enhanced communication, security, and access to data. As a result, fleets can rise above the competition if they optimize fleet management and workflow solutions and implement software to improve decision-making.

Automation, data visibility, and cloud-based digitization in the trucking industry wouldn’t be possible without a strategic decision by fleet leadership to prioritize digital transformation solutions. Digital solutions are required to best enable all parties in the supply chain, and fleet leaders need to pave the way with tech adoption. With the power of AI, machine learning, and cloud-based software, fleets will run faster, more efficiently, and more profitably than ever before.

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Avi Geller is the founder and CEO of Maven Machines. Since 2014, Avi has led Maven’s growth as an IoT platform that serves the transportation industry through real-time, mobile cloud enterprise software. Avi originally hails from Palo Alto, California, but started Maven in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania due to the city’s impressive innovation and technology resources. Prior to founding Maven, he held international positions with SAP and contributed to the growth of several successful software companies and startups. Avi also has an engineering degree from MIT and an MBA from Northwestern University.

ROADSTAR
Archives, Dispatches, Global Trade Daily

ROADSTAR MILLION MILE SAFE DRIVER WINS LANDSTAR ALL-STAR TRUCK GIVEAWAY

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Every year, Landstar gives away a truck, including all registration fees and taxes, to a Million Mile Safe Driver independent owner-operator for the Jacksonville, Florida-based worldwide, asset-light provider of integrated transportation management solutions. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, July 8 was the first time the Landstar All-Star Truck Giveaway took place virtually, via Zoom video conferencing.

That did not dampen the excitement of Bobby Jordan, who a 2020 Freightliner Cascadia 126 at the 2020 Landstar All-Star Truck Giveaway sponsored by Pilot Flying J.

“Wow! Thank you very much,” said a very emotional Jordan, once he realized he’d won the giveaway truck. “Landstar has been good to me from the very beginning.” 

The Soso, Mississippi, resident had been one of four randomly drawn “Roadstar” finalists. Roadstar is Landstar’s highest honor for truck owner-operators deemed the “best of the best” based on their high levels of safety, productivity and excellence in customer service. 

Each finalist selected a box that they hoped contained the key to the giveaway truck. Jordan, who picked first, selected the box with the key that started his new viper blue Freightliner Cascadia with a suite of safety systems, fuel efficiency features, a Detroit DD15, 14.8-liter engine and a Detroit DT12 automated transmission.