All successful logistics companies use some kind of trucking software. But have you ever wondered why?
What trucking software benefits do they bring to the table?
Here's the catch.
When the company grows, the number of operations increases as well. That means that you or your staff have less time to manage those essential trucking operations. But, you have to.
To stay competitive in the trucking industry, you need to move freight efficiently, reliably, and affordably.
In such cases, a trucking management software (TMS) is a game-changer allowing you to focus on the vital aspects of the business.
Below, find a list of benefits that trucking software can have for your company.
1. Improved control and efficiency
Your trucking company is not the only one in the business. And if you don't focus on improving your trucking services, your clients without any hesitation would replace you with a better trucking service provider.
You have to make sure that your trucking company provides better services to your clients than your competitors do.
Trucking software allows you to keep track of all important activities that keep your trucking business moving.
A trucking management software provides you with the data that needs to be analyzed to find insights on which activities need to be optimized and improved.
This kind of software helps optimize route planning and load scheduling, reducing empty miles and maximizing resource utilization.
And that efficiency in return leads to cost savings in fuel, labor, and fleet maintenance.
2. Enhanced visibility and real time-tracking
A trucking software can provide you with real-time tracking and truck monitoring provide great visibility of every truck location and status.
That advantage is that it allows fleet managers to address issues promptly by making faster decisions when needed. From here you can decide to call the driver to request an update on what is happening or to not disturb the driver.
With greater visibility of the truck, you have better control over the shipment and you can inform the customer when the cargo is late and what's the reason for it.
That also benefits the customer who, being well informed about the delay, can make their own decisions that fit their needs.
3. Cost reduction
To stay competitive in the trucking business, when there is a chance, you have to cut operational costs.
Fleet management systems can help identify cost-saving opportunities such as more efficient routes, reduced detention times, and improved inventory management, for example.
For example, a TMS (transportation management software) helps ensure that their freight is moved at the lowest possible cost and with the best possible service.
This can result in lower operational expenses as well as quicker and more efficient product delivery to consumers.
The more money you can save, the more money you can keep.
4. Customer Satisfaction
With improved visibility and accurate delivery times, you can provide better service to your customers.
Meeting delivery windows and providing real-time updates can lead to higher customer satisfaction and retention.
5. Compliance management
TMS systems can help you stay compliant with regulatory requirements, including Hours of Service (HOS) rules and safety regulations.
Avoiding violations can prevent fines and legal issues.
6. Reporting and Analytics
Many trucking software systems provide reporting and analytics tools such as dashboards, predictive analytics, specialized maps, and charts. Trucking businesses can use these data and look for insights.
For example, accounting software provides reports that uncovers insights where costs can be reduced.
This data-driven insight helps in making informed decisions and identifying areas for improvement of the business.
7. Paperless documentation
Many trucking software provide digital document transfer solutions. That option reduces the reliance on paper documents and simplifies the management of essential paperwork such as bills of lading, invoices, or receipts.
8. Helps with training
Among all these trucking software advantages deserves its place the training aspect.
If a driver is lost on route, you can simply login in and provide them directions over the phone.
Paired with the daily reports, you can show new-starters at the end of a shift easier routes in which to get pickups and deliveries done. Compare this to no tracking, and you might otherwise have a driver taking a longer than needed delivery route for years.
