Technology Trends

In years the changes are the only constant thing that we can expect. Even in business, there is nothing more expected than changes. Also, when it comes to the trucking industry, there is a constant change, like: changing fuel costs, increased regulations, driver shortages, etc. These issues definitely have an effect on industry revenue. However, they are not technically disruptive.

Nowadays, three distinct trends are disrupting this industry – telematics, last-mile delivery and driverless trucks. But whether companies like it or not, fighting these changes is futile. The future is now.

1. Telematics

This fleet management technology enables vehicles to send, receive and store information related to that vehicle via telecommunication devices. This technology gives full visibility into every aspect of your vehicle’s situation (location, detention time, equipment issues etc.). And provides the data necessary to optimize your entire fleet’s performance.
Fleet managers that are dealing with this challenge need to look at telematics as more than just a way to be compliant with new and potential regulations. The data provided also give information that can be used to make more strategic decisions for fleet operations and performance. So, at the end, the positive impact of the telematics on the business in general is the most important thing for the companies.

2. Last-Mile Delivery

Nowadays businesses are trying to find more traditional ways to get their goods to customers faster and at less expense. Despite these traditional ways there are some new option like Wal-Mart’s use of employees to deliver goods ordered online to customers located on the employee’s route home, or Amazon’s drone delivery initiative.
The closer proximity to the customer means faster delivery, and makes the customer happy. That also means savings in time and fuel, reduced chances of delivery delays due to weather or construction, and a range of other issues that can plague long-range delivery.
But, finally, shippers need to do their due diligence to decide what works best for their type of business.

3. Driverless Trucks

Despite many statements, autonomous trucks will not be “human-less” trucks, at least in the beginning. You’ll still need someone on board for the near future to guarantee that unforeseen issues can be dealt with. So, don’t wait for autonomous trucks to take advantage of today’s safety technology. From parking assist, to lane departure warnings, to technology that’s able to monitor the health of the driver, technology that will ensure greater safety and reduce risk is available. In the end, do a cost-benefit analysis and ascertain the ROI on installing such technology.