Modern technology has found its way into various industries. One of the sectors that saw the benefits of digitalization is trucking. Modern technology is meant to help the driver, providing insights or managing minor tasks. The industry offers new opportunities, providing an excellent CDL driver salary. As technology implementation continues, the demand for drivers that can operate them grows.

Modern trucks are equipped with technology that ensures efficiency and safety. Advanced telematics and electronic logging systems are examples of the implementation meant to aid the driver. Blind spot mirrors and dash cams are commonly used to ensure safety or provide evidence of collision. This post reveals which technologies can be implemented to streamline your trucking business.

Fleet management system

Fleet management systems have tracking and monitoring tools so companies can secure an efficient process. The fleet manager can access real-time data such as location, fuel usage, maintenance schedule, and driver performance. The trucking industry relies on different types of fleet management systems, but most of them include maintenance scheduling, GPS tracking, and driver performance monitoring. The software helps digitalize the process, reducing operation time and related costs. For example, companies can minimize the idle time to reduce fuel costs. In addition, they can monitor the driver and vehicle performance to ensure safe operations.

Electronic logging devices

The electronic logging device records the driver’s working hours to ensure they meet the regulations. The device records the driving time and breaks, sending them to a database. With this, the company and government agencies can verify if the driver complies with federal regulations regarding service hours. But also, this helps enhance safety since drivers need to take breaks to avoid fatigue. The electronic tracking system reduces time by cutting the need for doing paperwork. Also, the system ensures the driver takes enough rest to fight fatigue and ensure safety.

Dynamic routing

Dynamic routing uses data to provide optimal travel routes for full truckload shipments and less-than-truckload shipments. The route is created considering various parameters such as safety, weight, distance, customer preferences, and time. Dynamic routing can plan the route and include factors like weather elements, road conditions, and traffic. With this, the technology helps optimize the course, reduce the time needed, and cut down costs. The system suggests the optimal route, considering real-time road closures and traffic jams. With this, the goods can be delivered on time despite inconveniences.

Mobile apps

Mobile apps find various implementations across different industries. Mobile apps are widely available, so businesses should take advantage of them. Nowadays, mobile devices are mainstream. Therefore, business owners should implement mobile apps that streamline their working process. The use of these apps extends to every aspect of the operations.

Truck drivers can access real-time information to help them make better decisions and ensure on-time deliveries. Drivers have their driving schedules, routes, weather conditions, and delivery times on their mobile devices.They have all the needed information within a few taps, which helps them save time and cut costs. For example, they can get notified about road closures and readjust the route on time.

In addition, the mobile devices provide streamlined communication between the driver and dispatcher. GPS tracking and in-app messaging ensure streamlined communication so that any issues can be solved immediately.

Also, there are mobile apps that can help with drivers’ health and well-being. Health apps help drivers maintain their physical health, recommending rest, physical activity, or nutritious foods. Such mobile apps can also track their blood pressure and heart rate through smartwatches.

Also, let’s not forget that being a truck driver can result in loneliness. They can easily connect with family and friends through messaging or video chat apps. Many useful apps are free and readily available, so businesses don’t have to invest to feel their benefits.

Self-driving trucks

Autonomous vehicles find their implementation for commercial use. Autonomous trucks promise a lot since they can be operated without human intervention. The self-driving trucks are equipped with advanced cameras and sensors that allow them to operate.

A self-driving truck would be the top invention in the industry. Even though there are efforts to make this reality, the current technological development is far from fully autonomous vehicles. Such trucks are still in the testing phase, and it is still unclear if they will reach mainstream use. But, some autonomous features are implemented in modern trucks. They still require human input, focusing on helping the driver and cutting down their tasks. Trucking businesses see this as an opportunity to cut down costs. Driver salaries and benefits cost them a lot, so they are looking for ways to automate their operations.

Despite reducing costs, autonomous vehicles allow maximum efficiency. Autonomous vehicles can work 24/7 without taking a rest. According to federal regulations, truck drivers have limited working hours and mandatory rest to avoid dangerous situations due to fatigue. With the new technology, deliveries will be more efficient. But these aren’t the only benefits. Autonomous trucks rely on sophisticated technology to optimize the route and save time while reducing fuel costs.

For now, 20 US states allow commercial use of autonomous trucks. Most states allow self-driving truck testing but with human backup. But the implementation of this technology for interstate traveling isn’t allowed yet.

Final thoughts

Modern technology is changing the trucking industry we know now. However, the implementation is facing particular challenges. It is unknown if some technologies will be a part of the working process since they need to pass the test phase. Technology is transforming the industry, intending to streamline the process and reduce costs. While mobile apps and electronic logging devices are already part of the process, more advanced technologies like autonomous trucks are still waiting to be implemented.

If you own a trucking business, the technologies discussed in this post should be your focus. The chances that you already use some of them to a certain extent are huge. As a business owner, you should keep up to date with the changes and drive innovation to become more competitive in the dynamic market.