Technology is reshaping almost every aspect of the trucking industry, whether it be modern rigs becoming easier and safer to drive, route planning, recalculation done on the fly or tracking expenses on the road.
Fleet ownership and management are leading a technology revolution in the back office and maintenance yards, propelled by technology solutions offering new ways to increase efficiencies, advance safety and reduce costs. Not all changes are technological either, with fleet operators revitalizing everyday tasks.
One shift in the commercial trucking industry is the pivot to proactive fleet maintenance. Instead of waiting until a rig breaks down, operations are utilizing technology pre- and post-trip to identify and fix small problems before a breakdown occurs, helping improve federal safety compliance.
It may not strike many as a big deal and seem as logical as changing car brakes any time wear and tear appears, but is actually far more complicated. Carriers are investing in updated hardware, software, training and continuous education in hopes of minimizing costly major repairs. Carriers are using advanced diagnostics to uncover a host of problems before they become detrimental and sideline a commercial vehicle.
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Truck driver risk monitoring tools like SambaSafety’s has also helped revolutionize commercial trucking, due to an ever-increasing number of companies collecting data points and analyzing trends in hopes of making more informed business decisions. The tool allows for fleet managers to marry MVR and CSA data intelligence and easily transmit real-time information, sharing it across teams. Through accessibility and affordability of commercial truck risk management software, staying on top of commercially licensed drivers becomes much easier, no matter the size of your fleet.
One of the best tools fleets are equipped with when thinking about proactive fleet maintenance and management is their driver population. Many companies are transforming federally required inspections into integral parts of their proactive maintenance strategy, engaging drivers early by training them on what to look for and using technology to actively communicate. Investing time and money in training and tools shows drivers that a company is serious about providing reliable vehicles, making vehicle care a coordinated effort. Drivers will subsequently feel as invested in keeping trucks on the road as the company itself does.
Applying asset performance management principles from the business and manufacturing world helps fleet operations establish efficient technology-based programs. Software is used by companies to monitor driver performance and develop more efficient systems for vehicle upkeep, maintenance scheduling and cost calculations, providing insight into commercial fleet performance.
An unexpected outcome from trucking companies embracing technology is the piqued interest seen from the next generation of workers. Young, tech-savvy candidates are seeing the industry’s digital push and viewing the commercial transportation industry in a new light. Consider that we are close to a large portion of drivers closing in on the end of their careers. Just as they are about to hang up their keys, there is a clear need for companies to drive toward technological advancement and engage with the next generation.
To learn more about how technology can transform the way fleets do business, download our free checklist below.