Managing a truck fleet today feels like driving through a never-ending obstacle course of financial challenges and technological twists.
Since 2021-22, the trucking industry has battled to recover COVID-era rates meant to cover the rising wages of drivers, which chew up the largest slice of expenses. And finding good drivers who stick around? Good luck doing that in this labor environment. By Q3 last year, 35,000 new trucking companies closed their doors.
That’s why you need to dial in your truck fleet management in this climate to get more out of every mile. Leveraging technology to plan smarter routes, ramp up backhauls, and minimize empty miles only scratches the surface.
Here’s what you should know about improving truck fleet planning to thrive, even when the road gets rough.
Core Aspects of Truck Fleet Planning
Smart planning and the right technology elevate truck fleet utilization. A transportation management system (TMS) is the most comprehensive solution because it helps fleet managers manage routes, trucks, and budgets on one platform. It streamlines the day-to-day by automating tedious tasks, optimizing truck fleet utilization, and identifying potential cost-cutting areas.
How a TMS Streamlines Shipping and Saves Money
The underlying goal of a TMS is to make truck fleet utilization less about guesswork and more about making informed, strategic decisions that keep routes optimized and trucks running full. With a TMS, you can oversee your entire shipping operation, track every truck and route, and guarantee you’re getting the most from every mile.
Data-Driven Strategies for Truck Fleet Optimization
Managing a truck fleet today means keeping up with rising fuel costs and optimizing every route. Data analytics is the most powerful tool for making it happen.
How Data Analytics Optimize Truck Fleet Routes and Save Money
Think about how you plan a road trip: look at the map, consider traffic updates, and check gas prices, right? Now, imagine doing that for an entire fleet of trucks.
That’s where data analytics steps in. It crunches numbers on everything from how full each truck is to the timing of deliveries, road conditions, and even fuel costs. This way, you’re always using the best possible routes to dodge traffic jams and reduce gas use.
By monitoring key metrics like traffic patterns and fuel expenses, you can make intelligent decisions that keep your business running smoothly, competitively, and fully optimized.
Tackling Rising Truck Fleet Fuel Costs
Fuel prices are climbing, shaking things up for truck fleets everywhere. As of May 2024, the average price of gasoline hit $3.608 per gallon. Diesel reached $3.848 on May 13 and prices continue to fluctuate.
Calculate your potential Saving While Using an enterprise TMS
Key Takeaways for Optimizing Your Truck Fleet Utilization
Success in logistics requires a sharp strategy, especially with today’s headwinds. For many, advanced solutions and TMS changed everything for the better and from many angles. Whether it’s simplifying shipment planning and claims management, streamlining operations, or managing costs effectively, the benefits of truck fleet optimization are manifold.
See how MercuryGate can revolutionize your fleet management. Watch this webinar to start rethinking your truck fleet approach. Schedule a demo today to see our solutions in action.
