Commercial truck drivers can access voice-to-text technology through their in-cab devices and personal cell phones. The commercial truck driver can initiate texting with simple voice commands; some devices will even read incoming texts aloud. These technologies have their advantages, but trucker texting while driving is not a safe practice.
Load boards allow truck matching
Load boards are one of the most common ways shippers and carriers match up. They allow shippers to post loads with all pertinent information, and carriers with available capacity can log on to find a match. They can also see the market spot rate, which allows them to compare rates with their rates.
Online load boards are becoming an increasingly valuable tool for transportation companies. In the past, a load board was a simple blackboard in a dispatcher’s office with lists of loads and names of truck drivers. However, as technology advanced and the Internet came along, load boards moved online and were soon used by motor carriers throughout North America.
While load boards may seem daunting for the average trucker, they can be a powerful tool for brokers. Most platforms have a rate sourcing tool, which can give brokers an idea of average prices for a specific lane. This can give them a starting point for negotiating rates with carriers and shippers. But before negotiating rates, brokers must find carriers to match their loads. Load boards allow brokers to search for carriers near their pickup points and specify the origin and destination of the load.
Collision mitigation systems
Collision avoidance systems can warn a driver of an impending crash and take automatic action to prevent it. They can use cameras and forward-looking radar to identify a potential collision and generate visual and auditory alerts. If the driver does not respond, these systems may decelerate the vehicle to prevent an impact.
A new report from the NTSB outlines the importance of collision avoidance systems for commercial vehicles. In 2012, nine large truck accidents resulted in 28 fatalities and 90 injuries. This represents nearly half of the two-vehicle crashes that resulted in fatalities. The report also highlights the need for higher performance standards and regulatory action for collision avoidance systems.
Collision mitigation systems can help prevent crashes and save money for truck operators. Wabco’s OnGuard system includes an active braking system that engages the brakes to keep a safe following distance and reduces the impact of collisions with vehicles in front of the truck. The system can also detect obstacles in the blind spot at the rear of a truck. It can also save the truck driver up to 1 percent in fuel costs.
Electronic logging devices
An Electronic Logging Device, or ELD, is an electronic piece of DOT-certified hardware used by truck drivers to track their driving time. It has a screen that allows the driver to monitor its status and print an hour log that fleet managers can view and analyze.
Many ELD systems are available, but not all are created equally. Some require additional in-cab hardware, and others do not offer real-time GPS tracking. Some vendors also charge for additional software features. In addition, if your fleet uses the device for special operations, it’s crucial to choose a vendor specializing in these applications.
Electronic logging devices are a necessary tool for commercial truck drivers. The devices record driving time and service hours, which is necessary to comply with federal regulations. FMCSA has made the devices mandatory for many commercial vehicles starting Dec. 18, 2017. This will mean the end of paper logbooks and the introduction of electronic logging devices. Electronic logging devices also help fleet managers manage their fleet and ensure compliance.
GPS tracking
GPS tracking technology for truck drivers helps companies maximize the security and productivity of their fleets. Tracking technology can help businesses recover stolen assets or cut unnecessary routes and off-hours usage. It can also help dispatchers monitor employee status, including the location of their trucks. With accurate GPS tracking, the entire fleet can be monitored at a glance.
Fleet owners can lower costs associated with fuel consumption by deploying a GPS tracking solution for their trucks. This technology allows businesses to optimize routes, which means less fuel is spent on the trip. Additionally, it allows fleet owners to minimize speeding and idling time. All of these benefits can save company money.
Truck drivers may express concerns about GPS tracking, including concerns over job security and distracted driving. However, these concerns are easily addressed through increased transparency. Technology is constantly evolving, and truckers can expect even more benefits as time goes on. Previously, drivers relied on maps and radio systems to stay on track and find the best route. Using GPS tracking, truckers can quickly pinpoint any issues along the way and ensure they are on the right route.
