Optimizing fleet management in the food delivery business

The food delivery business is rapidly growing, with more and more people relying on food delivery services to get their meals. This growth has led to an increase in the number of vehicles used for food delivery, which means that fleet management is becoming increasingly important. Optimizing fleet management in the food delivery business can help reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure customer satisfaction. In this article, we will explore a few proven methods to optimize fleet management in the food delivery business.

Use GPS Tracking

GPS tracking is a must-have tool for fleet management in the food delivery business. It allows you to track the location of your vehicles in real-time, ensuring that your drivers are on the right route and are delivering food on time. GPS tracking can also help you optimize your delivery routes, reducing the distance your drivers have to travel and saving fuel costs.

Invest in Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

Investing in fuel-efficient vehicles can help reduce fuel costs and improve your fleet’s overall efficiency. Consider replacing older vehicles with newer, more fuel-efficient models. You can also consider implementing eco-driving practices, such as reducing idling time and avoiding hard acceleration and braking.

Optimize Delivery Routes

Optimizing delivery routes can help reduce travel time, save fuel costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Use GPS tracking to monitor traffic patterns and find the most efficient routes for your drivers. You can also consider using route optimization software to automatically generate the most efficient delivery routes for your fleet.

Use Data Analytics

Data analytics can provide valuable insights into your fleet’s performance and help you identify areas for improvement. Collect data on factors such as delivery times, fuel consumption, and maintenance costs, and use this data to identify patterns and trends. This can help you make informed decisions about fleet management and improve your overall efficiency.

Furthermore, fuel management is a crucial aspect of fleet management in the food delivery business. With the rising cost of fuel, efficient fuel management can help reduce costs and improve profitability. 

A fuel management system like Link2Pump can help you track fuel costs and identify areas for improvement. By tracking fuel consumption, you can identify drivers who are not driving efficiently and take steps to reduce fuel consumption. You can also monitor fuel prices and adjust your fuel purchasing strategy to take advantage of lower prices.

Fuel efficiency is critical for fleet management in the food delivery business. A fuel management system can help you monitor fuel efficiency and identify areas for improvement. You can track metrics such as miles per gallon and fuel consumption per mile and use this data to optimize your delivery routes and driver behavior.

Embrace Technology

Technology is constantly evolving, and there are many tools available to help optimize fleet management in the food delivery business. From GPS tracking to route optimization software to driver safety apps, there are many solutions that can help you manage your fleet more efficiently. Consider investing in technology that can help you streamline your operations and improve your bottom line.

If you are searching for alternatives to improve your productivity and bottom line, and want to learn more about our solution, please get in touch.

 

7 suggestions for improving your businesses fleet management operations

Fleet management operations play a critical role in any business that relies on transportation to deliver goods or services. Efficient fleet management can help a company save costs, improve productivity, and enhance customer satisfaction. Here are some suggestions for improving your business’s fleet management operations.

  • Implement a fleet management software

Fleet management software is a powerful tool that can help your business streamline operations and improve efficiency. These software solutions come with a range of features such as GPS tracking, maintenance scheduling, driver management, and real-time reporting. With a fleet management software, you can monitor your vehicles’ location, fuel usage, and driver behavior, enabling you to optimize your operations and reduce costs. Additionally, the software can also provide valuable insights into areas that require improvement, allowing you to make data-driven decisions.

  • Focus on preventive maintenance

Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your vehicles in top condition and avoiding costly repairs. Regular maintenance can help you identify and address potential issues before they become major problems, reducing downtime and keeping your fleet running smoothly. You can use your fleet management software to schedule routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Additionally, ensure that your drivers perform daily checks of their vehicles before they hit the road to identify any potential issues.

  • Invest in driver training

Your drivers are the backbone of your fleet operations, and investing in their training can go a long way in improving your business’s efficiency and productivity. A well-trained driver can operate a vehicle more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and wear and tear on the vehicle. Additionally, training can help drivers understand the importance of safe driving practices, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

  • Use telematics technology

Telematics technology can help you monitor your vehicles’ performance and driver behavior, providing valuable data that can help you optimize your operations. Telematics technology uses sensors and GPS tracking to collect data on your vehicles’ speed, fuel consumption, and other performance metrics. Additionally, the technology can also monitor driver behavior such as harsh braking, speeding, and idling, allowing you to identify areas where drivers can improve and take corrective action.

  • Optimize your routes

Route optimization is key to improving your fleet operations and reducing costs. With a fleet management software, you can plan the most efficient routes for your drivers, considering factors such as traffic, weather, and road conditions. Additionally, you can use the software to track your drivers’ progress and make real-time adjustments to their routes to ensure they arrive at their destinations on time.

  • Monitor fuel consumption

Fuel consumption is a major expense for any fleet operation, and monitoring it closely can help you identify areas where you can save costs. Use your fleet management software to track your vehicles’ fuel usage and identify areas where you can reduce consumption. For example, you can encourage drivers to avoid idling, maintain proper tire pressure, and drive at optimal speeds to reduce fuel consumption.

Link2Pump offers a simple solution that automates the entire fueling and tracking process. This way, you will always know where every drop of fuel is going, keep your inventory under control and do much more to drive fuel efficiency and performance to your fleet.

  • Implement safety protocols

Safety is paramount in any fleet operation, and implementing safety protocols can help you reduce the risk of accidents and protect your drivers, vehicles, and cargo. Ensure that your drivers undergo regular safety training and follow safety protocols such as wearing seat belts, avoiding distracted driving, and taking breaks when necessary. Additionally, ensure that your vehicles are equipped with safety features such as airbags, brakes, and backup cameras.

In conclusion, improving your business’s fleet management operations can have a significant impact on your bottom line. By implementing a fleet management software, focusing on preventive maintenance, investing in driver training, using telematics technology, optimizing your routes, monitoring fuel consumption, and implementing safety protocols, you can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.

If you want to learn more about our solution and are looking for alternatives to improve bottom line and productivity, please, get in touch.

Fuel management system: does your company need it?

Your company’s fuel management is a fundamental strategy for reducing costs within the vehicle fleet. At the end of the month, fuel supply expenses are higher than expected and the financial sector is unable to identify the source?

Carrying out fuel management is a great challenge for companies in the transport segment, it is no wonder that the search for the best technological solutions on the market continues to expand. 

Link2Pump develops the best software for fuel management, generating the opportunity to save resources, analyze metrics and take actions aimed at precise results.

Here are some reasons why a company might need a fuel management system:

Cost control

Fuel is often a significant expense for companies that operate vehicles or machinery. A fuel management system can help companies control their fuel costs by providing real-time visibility into fuel usage and consumption patterns. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions to reduce fuel costs.

Improved fleet management

For companies with a large fleet of vehicles or machinery, fuel management can be a complex and time-consuming task. A fuel management system can help simplify the process by automating many of the manual tasks involved in tracking fuel consumption, such as monitoring fuel levels, tracking fuel purchases, and generating reports. This centralized platform can help companies gain a deeper understanding of fuel consumption patterns and identify opportunities for improvement.

Inventory management

Fuel inventory management is a critical task for companies that store large quantities of fuel. A fuel management system can help track fuel levels in real-time, reducing the risk of running out of fuel and reducing the need for manual checks. In addition, a fuel management system can provide alerts when fuel levels are low, allowing companies to schedule deliveries and avoid downtime.

Fuel efficiency

A fuel management system can help companies improve their fuel efficiency by tracking and analyzing fuel consumption patterns. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and introduce changes to driving habits, routes, and machinery usage that can help reduce fuel consumption. In addition, a fuel management system can help companies monitor the performance of their vehicles or machinery, allowing them to identify and address any issues that are affecting fuel efficiency.

Integration with other systems

A fuel management system can be integrated with other systems, such as accounting, fleet management, and GPS tracking, to provide a more comprehensive view of a company’s operations. This integration can help companies streamline their operations and make more informed decisions by accessing real-time information from multiple sources.

It can provide many benefits to companies that operate vehicles, machinery, or store fuel. By reducing fuel expenses, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance with regulations, a fuel management system can help companies gain a competitive advantage and improve their bottom line.

Link2Pump developed an innovative — yet simple — device that automates your fuel consumption and helps you control your fleet. Designed to automate fuel dispensers located in yards and garages (internal fueling), access to the system is completely web-based, meaning there’s no need to install software, and it can be used from any computer or smartphone. It’s a one-touch solution for monitoring fueling times, fueling by vehicles, fueling volume, fueling agents, distance traveled by hours worked, average consumption and virtual storage in the tank.

If you are searching for alternatives to improve your productivity and bottom line, and want to learn more about our solution, please get in touch.

Landscaping trends for 2023

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Landscaping is an ever-evolving field that incorporates various aspects of design, horticulture, and environmental management. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the impact of human activities on the environment, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly landscaping solutions has increased. In this article, we will take a look at some of the latest landscaping trends that are shaping the future of this industry.

Sustainable Landscaping
Sustainable landscaping refers to the design and maintenance of outdoor spaces in an environmentally responsible manner. This includes using native plants that are well-adapted to the local climate, reducing water usage through the use of drought-tolerant plants, and implementing sustainable irrigation systems. The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, instead of synthetic ones is also becoming more popular in sustainable landscaping.

Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens are a creative way to add greenery to urban environments, where space is limited. They are designed to grow up instead of out and can be attached to walls, fences, or even free-standing structures. Vertical gardens are not only a beautiful addition to outdoor spaces, but they also provide numerous environmental benefits, such as reducing air pollution and providing shade.

Outdoor Living Spaces
The trend of creating outdoor living spaces that can be used for entertaining, dining, and relaxing continues to gain popularity. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and comfortable seating areas are becoming increasingly common in residential and commercial landscaping projects. These spaces can be designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, using materials like stone, wood, and gravel.

Low Maintenance Landscaping
With busy schedules, many homeowners are looking for low maintenance landscaping options. The use of native plants that are well-adapted to local conditions, as well as the implementation of sustainable practices, can help reduce the amount of time and effort required for landscaping maintenance. The use of raised garden beds and mulch is also becoming more popular, as these methods help retain moisture in the soil and reduce the need for watering.

Green Roofs
Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are becoming more popular in commercial and residential landscaping. These roofs are covered with vegetation and soil, and can provide numerous benefits, such as reducing heat absorption and improving air quality. Green roofs are also a great way to add greenery to urban environments and provide habitat for wildlife.

Landscape Industry Statistics

According to statistics from the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), the landscape industry in the United States generates over $100 billion in annual revenue and employs approximately one million people. The industry has grown steadily over the past decade, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.8% between 2015 and 2019. This growth is projected to continue in the coming years, driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and increased demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly landscaping practices.

One of the most significant segments of the landscape industry is lawn care services. According to a report from IBISWorld, the lawn care services industry in the United States generated $87.6 billion in revenue in 2020 and employed over one million people. This industry is projected to continue growing in the coming years, with increasing demand for services such as fertilization, weed control, and pest management.

According to the NALP, the landscape design and installation segment of the industry generated $22.6 billion in revenue in 2019 and employed over 200,000 people. This segment is also projected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly design practices.

The landscaping industry is constantly evolving and adapting to new trends and technologies. From sustainable and eco-friendly practices to innovative lighting solutions, the future of landscaping is looking bright and promising. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or landscaping professional, these trends can provide inspiration for creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces that will enhance the quality of life for years to come.

Link2Pump made fuel tracking and reporting simple, and it can help your landscaping business. In the era of data and connectivity, Link2Pump empowers businesses to take control of their fuel usage. Our solution combines a web portal and a device connected to your fuel dispenser.

If you want to learn more about our solution and are looking for alternatives to improve bottom line and productivity, please get in touch.

5 strategies for reducing your fleet’s cost per mile

The costs of operating vehicle fleets can add up quickly. Fleet owners deal with typical expenses like maintenance and fuel, and the price of gasoline and diesel can be volatile, especially with supply chain disruptions and international conflict causing spikes. The unpredictability leads logistics professionals to consider every option available for saving. 

Reducing the cost per mile of a fleet is essential to maximize profitability and ensure the sustainability of a transportation business. Here are five strategies that can help you reduce your fleet’s cost per mile:

  1. Implement fuel-efficient driving practices: Encouraging your drivers to adopt fuel-efficient driving practices such as accelerating and braking smoothly, reducing speed, and avoiding idling can significantly reduce fuel consumption and, in turn, the cost per mile.
  2. Regular vehicle maintenance: Regular vehicle maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicles, but also improves fuel efficiency and reduces costly breakdowns. This includes routine checks of the engine, transmission, tires, and brakes, as well as timely replacements of filters and lubricants.
  3. Invest in fuel-efficient vehicles: Upgrading your fleet with fuel-efficient vehicles can significantly reduce fuel costs and decrease the cost per mile. Vehicles equipped with modern fuel-saving technologies such as aerodynamic designs, low-rolling resistance tires, and advanced engine management systems can deliver substantial fuel savings.
  4. Manage routes and schedules efficiently: Efficient route planning and scheduling can reduce miles driven, fuel consumption, and ultimately, the cost per mile. By optimizing routes, reducing unnecessary idling, and avoiding backtracking, you can significantly reduce fuel costs and improve productivity.
  5. Use telematics and data analytics: Telematics systems and data analytics can provide valuable insights into fleet performance, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and make informed decisions that can reduce the cost per mile.

    For example, Link2Pump offers an open API for seamless and free integration with 3rd party software. Your fuel transactions and tank inventory data in the L2P system can interface via web service with basically any software platform, such as fleet fuel cards, billing programs, fleet maintenance, telematics, and much more. You can also export to text and spreadsheet files.

Reducing the cost per mile of your fleet requires a combination of effective management strategies, including fuel-efficient driving practices, regular vehicle maintenance, investment in fuel-efficient vehicles, efficient route planning, and the use of telematics and data analytics. By implementing these strategies, you can reduce your fleet’s cost per mile, improve efficiency, and maximize profitability.

How to save fuel on the road

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The cost of fuel is one of the biggest expenses for fleet managers. The past few years have been challenging because of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Here’s how to encourage drivers to save fuel while on the road.

Implementing new policies

The most direct way to encourage fuel-efficient driving habits is to enforce new policies for drivers. Fleet managers could set efficiency metrics for the team and have them aim for specific targets each quarter. Some companies establish a speed limit for their drivers to ensure they get the best mileage possible. 

Training drivers from the beginning

Fleet managers should communicate their expectations from the beginning to make policies effective. Hiring managers and supervisors can encourage fuel-efficient driving habits by showing new people in training. These workers could be entry-level, first-time employees or seasoned veterans. Either way, fleet managers should ensure they know the expectations and metrics they need to reach.  

Giving feedback to drivers is important

Providing feedback is a great way to improve driving habits. Letting employees know how they’re doing and if they’re being fuel-efficient gives them direct knowledge of whether they’re performing well or need improvement. Today’s technology is beneficial because supervisors don’t have to sit with people while they operate. 

Changing driver schedules

Based on traffic patterns in the area, fleet managers should create routes daily. The time of day can impact congestion significantly. One highway could have traffic jams frequently in the morning, but be mostly clear by midday. Driving at night typically brings less traffic on most routes. 

Be aware of fuel capacity

Drivers can go for long stretches in rural areas without seeing a gas station. For example, vehicles on Interstate 70 in Utah can travel for over 100 miles without coming across a service station. Drivers who encounter roads like this should calculate their vehicles’ fuel range to avoid running out of gas. 

Getting regular maintenance checks 

Fleet managers can extend the life of their fleet by getting routine maintenance checks. These appointments increase fuel efficiency by ensuring all parts work at their peak level. Some elements fleet owners should examine are:

  • Tires: Tires can have a significant impact on fuel efficiency. Fleet managers and drivers should track the PSI constantly and ensure it’s optimal for each tire. Underinflated tires compromise fuel mileage by about 0.2% for every pound dropped.
  • Air filter: Another maintenance point affecting fuel economy is the air filter. It will have difficulty with airflow once it traps debris and dirt from the road, resulting in lower efficiency. Fleet managers should regularly replace the air filter to improve fuel economy.
  • Engine: Engine tuneups are a necessity for fleets. Supervisors may see they need to replace the spark plugs or oxygen sensors when tuning the motor. Another way to help the engine is to upgrade the oil to a low-viscosity blend.

Also, having a fleet management software gives you a more comprehensive picture of your fleet’s operations. When you have this well-rounded view of your fleet, you can expand it more efficiently. 

Our company has solutions for several industries, such as agriculture, aviation, construction, government, marinas, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and utilities. If you want to learn more about our solution and are looking for alternatives to improve the bottom line and productivity, please get in touch.

Electric vehicles dominated CES 2023

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CES, or the Consumer Electronics Show, is a massive, annual event where some of the most important technology makers and innovators show off their latest and greatest releases. The show began all the way back in 1967 in New York City, and was a bi-annual event until the late 1990s. Recently, the formerly transient show has settled into Las Vegas as its regular home, typically taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center. In 2023, CES was once again at just about full, in-person capacity, housing major reveals from companies like Samsung, Acer, Asus, HTC, Lenovo, and many, many others.

This year, in addition to the many screen launches, another hot topic was electric cars. Even for those who visited the event, would not be wrong if they thought that all cars in the world are now electric. After all, pretty much everything, from the next generation of motorcycles to a soon-to-be unveiled U.S. Postal Service delivery van, is now battery-powered.

With the Biden administration’s recent announcement of an expected March increase from the present $7,500 incentive for consumers who purchase an electric vehicle, there will soon be an additional financial benefit for buyers. To that end, there is no shortage of options.

About each brand’s releases

At CES, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Stellantis (parent company of Chrysler, Peugeot, Vauxhall, and Fiat) and Volvo all unveiled their versions of EVs that are either presently in the market or slated for delivery later this year.

Finland-based motorcycle manufacturer Verge introduced its 201 HP all-electric super bike, most-powerful two-wheeled vehicle ever produced, while Oshkosh Defense is producing 60,000 new zero emission delivery vehicles for the U.S. Postal Service — 75% of which will be fully electric — slated for 2026.

Dodge most definitely turned heads with the introduction of its new Ram 1500 Revolution fully electric pickup truck, with two 14.2-inch touchscreens, one of which is removable for use outside the vehicle, and its innovative Shadow Mode, which allows the truck to follow its owner at low speeds, perfect for delivering items to multiple nearby locations.

But the unquestioned star of the show was the partnership between Sony and Honda, which are working together to manufacture and sell their unique, entertainment-infused line of electric vehicles under the brand name Afeela.

With 45 integrated cameras and sensors, and safety a top priority, the new line will ultimately feature Level 3 automated driving capabilities under limited conditions, meaning the car can drive autonomously in heavy traffic, but the human driver must take over when the system requests it.

The innovation in one area often launches a movement, and nowhere was that more apparent than in the dozens of power stations and charging options present in the exhibition hall.

Technology industry professionals attend the show to learn about what is new, what is hot, and what is coming. The world’s largest gathering for innovation and technology also allowed us to see and imagine the future.

Tips to conduct a great road test

Comprehensive road tests offer one of the best tools to evaluate an applicant’s technical skills and driving behaviors. But the process involves more than ensuring the truck driver completes the journey. Let’s check some tips to improve this process. 

Create a trusting environment

Before a road test begins, it is important to take some time over a coffee to get to know a job candidate better. This helps break down psychological barriers and establish a sense of trust that will help better gauge the driver’s character, skills, and attitude.

Check the attention to detail

After the candidate has done a circle check, he or she can be measured in the fleet yard. Having a driver couple a tractor to the trailer offers the chance to monitor their attention to details, such as ensuring that the fifth wheel’s jaws have properly closed around the king pin.

Look at what they see

Once you’re on the highway, start a conversation about family, friends, and social activities. Ask questions about the number, location, and even color of vehicles to their left, right or in front of the truck at any moment. And how often are they looking at their mirrors?

Drivers should be seen following the Smith System of Driving’s five key rules. Looking far ahead, expanding their visual field, keeping their eyes moving, ensuring they are seen and predictable, and ensuring they don’t leave themselves boxed in without an escape.

Ask drivers to tell you what they can’t do

The things a driver avoids are just as important as what they do. As they move through an urban environment, can they identify signs that prohibit trucks from entering specific streets? Do they know how to identify routes that cannot accommodate heavy vehicles?

Watch how they behave

Calm drivers are safe drivers. Is a candidate aggressive in their maneuvers and braking? Do they seem aggravated when someone cuts them off or drives too slowly in front of them?

Back up observations

Several skills and approaches can be observed by asking a driver to back into a space or loading dock. Does the candidate get out and look (GOAL)? Back up smoothly and at a low speed? Do they demonstrate patience – especially if they have to repeat the maneuver?

More than anything else, the candidate should love driving. Any person who loves his/her job does it well. Driving a truck or a car is good employment for those who do not want to work within the confines of an office. These are some of the best ways in which you can hire drivers for your fleet of vehicles.

Government plans to require large contractor emissions reports

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Federal regulators have proposed a new climate-reporting rule that would require large federal contractors to publicly disclose their greenhouse gas emissions, climate-related financial risks and science-based emissions’ reduction targets.

The new proposal, known as the Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Proposed Rule, would amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It was announced by the Department of Defense, General Services Administration and NASA. The agencies are recommending adding the climate reporting as a revision to the FAR, which governs federal contractors.

The federal government is the world’s single largest purchaser of goods and services, spending more than $650 billion in contracts in fiscal 2020 alone, according to the announcement.

The new proposal provides a targeted, risk-based approach by focusing primarily on major federal suppliers. The largest supplier category includes federal contractors receiving more than $50 million in annual contracts, and contractors with more than $7.5 million but less than $50 million in annual contracts.

A science-based target is a target for reducing GHG emissions that is in line with reductions that the latest climate science deems necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius (or 28.4 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees C (34.7° F).

The SEC proposed rule change, first announced in March, would require registrants to include certain climate-related disclosures in their registration statements and periodic reports, including information about climate-related risks that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on their businesses.

So, if you have government contracts, it is more than ever important to be able to measure all processes, for the greatest possible transparency.

IoT and telematics tracking in trucks can help on this mission. Fleet managers can then perform repairs to make them more fuel-efficient or replace them with newer, more economical alternatives. Similarly, data over time can highlight which routes lead to the highest diesel consumption, informing future route planning.

Currently, Link2Pump is an alternative that helps fleets managers to save fuel. If you want to learn more about our solution and are searching for alternatives to manage your fleet, please get in touch.

What to expect from IoT in 2023

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The Internet of Things will be present in 95% of electronics in the coming years. As a result, interest in and demand for products capable of combining management, control, and monitoring will grow rapidly. The scenario serves as a tip for every supplier, at the very least, to make plans to implement IoT in their products, considering the new opportunities and needs of the market.

To keep pace with industry changes and stay competitive, it’s critical to be aware of major trends. Here are the top trends to keep an eye on, shared by Zipit. 

  1. A wider range of connectivity options

The last few years have offered a wider range of connectivity choices for IoT, both by expanding existing technologies like LPWAN( Low-power wide-area network) and through newer technologies like 5G. With the continued proliferation of 5G’s ultra-low latency and higher data transfer rates, we’ll continue to see exciting new solutions evolve and improve. 

  1. Increasing challenges related to cybersecurity

Cybersecurity continues to be top of mind, particularly since the rise in remote work. Seeking new and improved ways of protecting IoT products and systems is and will continue to be a top business priority for years to come. 

  1. Edge computing

One particular technology that continues to advance on the Internet of Things is edge computing. In this model, the IoT data captured by sensors is analyzed and stored at or near the physical site where it’s collected. Edge computing provides the opportunity for more real-time data processing, and it allows businesses and governments to serve customers in new areas while providing greater control and flexibility. Some exciting edge computing use cases include autonomous vehicles, smart cities, healthcare and medicine, industrial IoT, and more.

  1. Advances in big data and machine learning

Learning how to harness the data to further automate decision-making is proving to be an exciting challenge to solve and a key aspect of continuing to enhance the value of IoT. Big data and machine learning will continue enabling IoT to support better and more informed recommendations as we learn to leverage it well.

  1. As-a-service delivery model improvements

Through IoT, using cloud-based services without a large financial outlay will continue to improve the service delivery model. IoT provides a “consume what you need” delivery method through the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud services, and other advances. 

  1. Artificial intelligence (AI)

According to Bloomberg, the $422+ billion global artificial intelligence market is likely to grow at over 39% from now through 2028. This tremendous growth provides incredible opportunities for businesses and governments alike to foster innovation and respond to customer and constituent needs. Artificial intelligence has been advancing IoT by leaps and bounds and shows no sign of slowing down. 

  1. Internationalization

The final trend for 2023 is that device-making customers are expanding their offerings into different countries. Some US-based OEMs are growing by deploying solutions into Canada and various countries in Europe, for example. Likewise, Canadian companies are expanding into the US and various parts of Asia. And this trend continues in other countries as well. Now that more companies have already deployed their solutions in their home countries, they seek to offer their solutions in different markets and regions. 

Tips to managing a downturn

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Trucking is a cyclical business and after most carriers enjoyed some record financial quarters, the economy seems poised to turn south. The risk of a U.S. recession is now 60% according to consensus estimates. But there are things trucking companies can and should be doing to safely weather any kind of looming economic storm.

Be transparent

Reporting on business metrics positively will help managers and stakeholders make lucrative decisions that limit the risk to employees.

  • Create a scorecard for each month detailing fleet size, fuel consumption, and repair costs, while highlighting any benefits received from vendor discounts or partner programs. Then compare those losses to profits gained by holding fast with effective business practices and structured evolution.
  • Provide higher-ups with ways to cut expenses and impact operational efficiency without sacrificing quality, ability, or continuity. If assets aren’t being utilized, propose ways to impact the bottom line by repurposing or removing them.

Don’t stop investing

The worst thing to do in a downturn is to stop investing. You can’t cut your way to profitability. You have to have a plan and stick to the plan. Investments in IT projects, facilities, and new equipment should not be shelved. Every time the economy starts to slow, we want to extend the life of our equipment. But this way, repair costs will rise, putting the carrier in a hole that’s difficult to emerge from. So, continue to invest in your good people, your drivers, your employees.

Optimize your network

Examine your network and focus growth and investments in the most profitable lanes. Discuss with customers which lanes are a good fit and which aren’t, and allocate available capacity to those that make the most sense for both parties. Fleets need to assess each load and lane in their network, based on the revenue they generate and the cost and time it takes to service those lanes.

One thing many carriers don’t have access to is accurate transit times. Take that into account. Give a profit score to every load. Right now would be a good time to start if you’re not already doing that. If you’re responding to RFPs (requests for proposals) without this data, you’re loosing money.

It’s hard to predict when the economy will level out after tanking, so taking steps to prepare for the worst will prevent negative consequences. For fleet managers, the first steps should be protecting employees and assets, removing unnecessary processes, and digitizing manual methods to save on supplies and retain valuable time.

IoT and telematics tracking in trucks can reveal whether specific vehicles use more fuel than others. Fleet managers can then perform repairs to make them more fuel-efficient or replace them with newer, more economical alternatives. Similarly, data over time can highlight which routes lead to the highest diesel consumption, informing future route planning.

Link2Pump is an alternative that helps fleets managers to save fuel. You can improve delivery planning and fuel distribution management, saving money without losing effectiveness and deadlines.

IKEA begins autonomous freight delivery

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Kodiak Robotics joined IKEA Supply Chain Operations in piloting autonomous freight deliveries in Texas. The partnership includes a Kodiak autonomous heavy-duty truck transporting IKEA products seven days a week between its distribution center in Baytown and its store in Frisco.

Kodiak said the main purpose of running the route is to get a better understanding of how its autonomous driving technology contributes to increased road safety and better working conditions for truck drivers on the longer distances. The driverless truck has a professional safety driver behind the wheel who picks up a loaded trailer at the distribution center each morning and oversees the autonomous delivery to the store by late afternoon.

Kodiak said it’s able to leverage its built-for-scale solution to rapidly and safely add new lanes. These include the recently announced launch of commercial operations between Dallas and Oklahoma City and service between Dallas and Atlanta. Kodiak has been delivering freight daily between Dallas and Houston since mid-2019, and delivering freight between Dallas and San Antonio since mid-2021.

Automated driving

While self-driving passenger cars tend to get the most attention, autonomous driving tech is poised to have an even greater impact on the global trucking and logistics industry.

Autonomous trucks aren’t yet commonplace on the world’s highways, but recent advances in autonomous trucking technologies mean that self-driving trucks could soon become a vital part of modern logistics operations — and an everyday sight for millions of motorists. Autonomous trucking could hugely increase efficiency and reduce costs, as well as help shore up critical weaknesses in many supply chains that cause shortages during disruptions like the Covid-19 pandemic.

Investors are starting to pay more attention to the space, backing increasingly larger deals to autonomous trucking startups lately.

Some recent developments in autonomous logistics are transforming trucks themselves, as auto manufacturers envision a future in which truckers’ cabs serve as mobile offices, fully connected to the grid via 5G and other wireless networking technologies. But beyond the vehicles, an entire industry of supportive technologies has emerged to provide solutions for logistics and goods haulage, from fleet management to freight matching.

Seasonal maintenance tips as the cold weather rolls in

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The time to start thinking about the seasonal checks you need to make to prepare your trucks for the winter months is now. The extreme winter conditions only exacerbate underlying problems that may go unnoticed up to a light comes on, and your truck is sidelined.

Regular and precise maintenance will save you a lot of time, money, and hassle in the long-run so here are some seasonal preparation tips to keep in mind as the cold comes trucking in.

Check tires and tire pressure

We know that the air in tires expands and contracts as the outside temperature fluctuates. Freezing temperatures can obviously make this worse than normal, so it is important to maintain proper inflation on the tires for them to function safely and not cause excess wear. If you have tires with wearing tread, this can cause slippery driving conditions as well. Having correctly inflated tires, and running winter tires in good condition, will help prevent breakdowns and accidents.

Prevent corrosion

The mix of chemicals and salt used to clear the snowy roads on top of the frigid temps can take a toll on your truck’s performance. Corrosion affects every fleet and can ruin your components if the connections are not secure and water tight. By utilizing high-quality parts meant to withstand the harsh demands of winter and prevent moisture, your truck’s uptime is more likely to increase. Using proper lubrication will additionally prevent breakdowns caused by increased friction and corrosion.

Check the battery

The battery is no exception to needing special care in cold weather. It is imperative to make sure the battery is not past its expiration date, so you know it is capable of holding a good charge. You may want to consider keeping a good voltage tester on board. It is important to keep the battery in a fully charged state and the terminals free of corrosion, which can slow or prevent a charge and leave you with a dead battery.

Keep your fuel tank at least half full

Some truckers typically usually get only filling enough fuel for each trip, however, in the winter there are benefits to keeping more fuel in the tank, such as condensation build-up that will add unwanted water into your tank. Even if you have a water separator for fuel going into your tank, condensation build-up can still allow water to get in there after the fact.

Don’t idle trucks

It’s a popular strategy, but starting a cold truck and letting it idle is not only ineffective, but also damaging to your engine. If you need to warm a truck that’s been sitting overnight, drive it around the yard or parking lot. This will exercise the truck more efficiently, allowing it to warm the engine, transmission, differential, and suspension evenly.

Whether you’re running (or driving) one or 100 trucks, maintaining a good routine relies on easy communication between your drivers, fleet managers and operations teams. It’s always a good idea to share seasonal safety messages that remind drivers of any unique conditions. Combine this with regular, thorough vehicle inspections, and it can help keep your fleet in top shape across the colder winter months.

What to expect from public fleets in the future

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With new vehicle advancements being rolled out every year, the current fleet industry is nothing like its predecessors. Telematics, EVs, and a fresh demand for parts has kept the industry moving at an unprecedented pace. To get a better grasp of the current state of the fleet industry, leaders in the field discuss what we can expect in the future.

As the world is working to bounce back from a multi-year pandemic, the fleet industry has noticed a direct hit to the supply chain for not only parts but vehicles. Industry experts have specifically noticed a shortage of a key component for fleets: microchips. The shortage doesn’t just stem from a single instance. Instead, coming out of the pandemic shutdowns, a reduction in vehicle production that was later met with a skyrocketing increase in demand, and that has all led to shortages.

But looking at the industry’s supply chain from a management side, fleets need to plan ahead with purchasing as prices go up and vendors close down. If there is one takeaway from trying to understand the future of vehicles, it’s that telematics will bring the industry into the next century. Able to provide vehicle insight and diagnostics that were previously inaccessible, telematics have created a way to better plan for the next generation of vehicles while better understanding the fleets of today.

From knowing how many miles a vehicle has traveled, to knowing the cost of travel and being able to plan repairs, telematics seems to fit with the natural progression of vehicles and a trend toward more electric components.

Telematics systems are a way to continually learn about the vehicles being driven. It’s with this learning process that he hopes fleets will succeed.

The whole idea is to try to manage your costs. And it comes down to a very basic thing. If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. And that’s what they help you do.

Vehicle fuel consumption, for example, on average represents about 20% of total municipal energy usage for towns. And a good first step in reducing municipal fleet fuel consumption is to understand where and when fuel consumption is occurring.  This information can help municipal officials, staff, and volunteers to identify major sources of fuel consumption, and decide where to focus fuel usage reduction efforts.

Link2Pump service can be very useful in this area, as we offer solutions such as:

— instant tracking of fuel expenditures by department

— real-time tracking and reporting by vehicle, driver, division and more

— no fuel misuse, our system can prevent drivers from accidentally filling gas into diesel powered vehicles

If you want to learn more about our solution and are searching for alternatives to manage your municipal fleet, please get in touch.

What Are the Benefits of a Fuel Management System?

Fuel is the biggest expenditure for efficient fleet management. A custom fuel management system is the perfect solution to understand gas consumption within your fleet.

Many fleet managers are incorporating fuel management systems into their daily operations. Leveraging telematics technology offers valuable insights into fuel usage and allows you to optimize this asset across the board.

A fuel management system enables fleet managers to track fuel usage patterns across their fleet. Without a fuel management system in place, managers often find themselves overspending on fuel and repairs, and drivers may run out of fuel as the result of a misguided fuel meter or taking trips without optimized routes.

With automated supply, the logistics become much more agile: times are shortened, and you no longer depend on external factors that reduce business efficiency. In addition to being able to be placed in strategic locations, a fuel management solution allows the entire fueling process, including vehicle identification and odometer reading, to be completed quickly.

Another important point is to avoid and reduce fraud. Companies tend to lose a lot of money in the risk management process. A software system solves this issue by ascertaining that the right vehicle is fueled at the correct time and place. Indeed, managers can monitor their fleet conveniently and at all times.

Moreover, small issues can become serious ones if not repaired in a timely manner. For example: 

— Flat or under-inflated tires can reduce mileage by up to 30%

— Engine problems reduce mileage by 4% on average

— Faulty oxygen sensors cut up to 40% off mileage

— Brake drag can also affect driver safety and fuel consumption.

A fuel tracking system can track anomalies in your fleet’s fuel consumption, which can be either indicative of potential maintenance issues or the result of driving behavior.

Having a properly developed fuel management system can help mitigate these risks and expenses, not only by giving you a window into your fleet’s performance, but by protecting your drivers and overall fleet performance.

Fleet management software gives you a more comprehensive picture of your fleet’s operations. When you have this well-rounded view of your fleet, you can expand it more efficiently. By understanding your current fleet, you can find opportunities to bring in more jobs.

So, to sum up, the main advantages of installing your own fueling point are:

  • Fuel quality assurance, reducing the risk of fraud and ensuring that the entire fleet can have the same performance;
  • Elimination of the costs of moving machinery/vehicles to the gas station;
  • Practicality and speed of supply, since it will have the availability of supply 24 hours;
  • Fuel tax refund; 
  • Centralization and rationalization of consumption control. 

If you’re looking to install a fleet management system for your team’s vehicles, get in touch.

Fuel Tax Credit Extended for Propane Autogas Vehicles

The Propane Education & Research Council’s Alternative Fuel Tax Credit was recently passed by the U.S. Congress as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, 2022. PERC said it encourages fleet operators to take advantage of the tax credit.

Propane autogas fleet operators who apply for the tax credit will be able to claim a credit for every gasoline gallon equivalent of propane autogas purchased, or about 37 cents per gallon, according to PERC. The bill not only extends the credits through Dec. 31, 2024, but fleet owners can also apply for credits retroactively for any fuel purchases made in 2022. Tax-exempt entities that use propane autogas from an on-site fueling station for a vehicle fleet also qualify for the incentive.

Thousands of fleets across the country rely on propane autogas every day for environmental sustainability, and these credits provide another opportunity for fleets to ensure they’re also realizing financial sustainability.

The new law also retroactively extends the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit, which allows operators to claim up to 30% or $30,000 of the cost of installing qualified alternative fuel vehicle refueling property, including propane autogas refueling equipment.

Tax refunds can reduce fuel costs

Tax refunds can reduce fuel costs, but still, many companies lose a lot of money each year by not accurately filing for fuel tax refunds. You can surely save your company a great deal with Link2Pump managing process.

Fleet managers often fail to accurately file for all the on-road taxes for the diesel fuel that is used to power tax-exempt processes of non-road everyday equipment, including concrete mixers, dump trucks and other construction site machinery.

Link2Pump can easily track and reconcile all information required for filing fuel tax refund claims with a one-click report. It is easy to save money with our service. The best part is that facilitating the tax refunds process is one of the many features of our equipment, and you don’t have to pay anything extra for it.

If you want to learn more about our solution and are looking for alternatives to improve bottom line and productivity, please, get in touch.

How Trucking is Tackling the Diesel Technician Shortage

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The professionals needed to repair heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles require a set of skills distinct from the “grease monkeys” of 40 years ago. It’s time the industry pivots to reflect this change, say those closest to the issue.

The industry faces a looming question: How will it train enough technicians on alternative-fuel engines, battery-electric vehicles, fuel-cell-electric vehicles, and the latest smart-screen dashboards? The need for new skills and knowledge has caused schools to upgrade their curricula. But how can fleets help address this critical issue?

There are no easy or concrete answers. But what is certain is that you want to train techs on innovative technologies now, so we have technicians who can work on them later.

Schools have enough students in the pipeline today, but not necessarily students mastering skills the diesel industry needs. Educational gaps can take some blame for this. However, fleets working in silos versus partnering with educational facilities share responsibility, too.

Heightening concerns are issues surrounding the industry’s need for technicians tomorrow and the educational pipeline of today. According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics projections for 2020-2030, demand for diesel technicians will continue to rise, albeit slightly slower than before, at about 1% a year. This growth will generate a need for 25,000 new diesel positions by 2030.

But that’s not accounting for the technicians that will be needed to replace those leaving the industry — 163,000 positions by 2030. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a giant spike in technicians changing careers, leaving the workforce or retiring early. There’s no question that the technician shortage has grown more acute in the last decade.

TechForce Foundation’s 2021 Transportation Technician Supply and Demand Report explains the void as a matter of supply and demand. The demand for automotive, collision and diesel technicians in 2021 exceeded the number of technicians completing their certification in 2020 by over 500%. That means the industry must quintuple the number of technicians entering the field just to keep pace with current demands.

People still apply the concept of dirty work to commercial vehicle repairs. It’s a stigma that persists and drives people away. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) classes also can steer students toward these careers. Many students gravitate toward robotics and computer electronics, both of which are in high demand in the technician space. The industry needs these skills, and they are rewarding careers.

Encouraging job shadows and internships at the high school level can attract more students to the fold, as can recruiting students while they attend post-secondary education. Penske, for example, employs recruiters to forge working relationships at vocational-technical schools and at the high school level.

Another creative method of reaching out to young people is the TMC SuperTech augmented reality game, which lets players progress through a career as a maintenance technician to a shop owner in the trucking industry. The app, sponsored by the Arkansas Office of Skills Development, TA Petro, Cummins, Dana, and others, is inspired by TMC’s national technician skills competition.

Scholarships also help drive this effort. TMC and Old World Industries have partnered to offer a series of scholarships for students looking to pursue an education in heavy-duty commercial vehicle maintenance. The PEAK Performance Scholarships will support two students with up to $12,500 each for their education at a college or vocational school.

The technician shortage lacks a short-term answer. But fleets that think long-term will do better than those that don’t. These forward thinkers will partner with education and industry to access recent graduates trained to their needs. They will recruit well and from diverse groups. And they will do what it takes to keep technicians for the long haul.

 

4 policies every fleet safety program should have

Rules, policies, and procedures are not “safety.” Safety and accident prevention come down to human behaviors. After all, rules won’t always stop your drivers from making unsafe choices. A fleet safety policy and related fleet safety programs will protect you from litigation and set the standard in place for your employees.

But why is a fleet safety policy important?

]The fact is, driving is the most dangerous thing your employees do. So, a fleet safety policy consists of rules and guidelines directly related to driving a company vehicle. To improve profits, it’s crucial to reduce your cost of loss. This is most effectively done by hiring safe employees and training them to be defensive drivers.

Fleet safety policies you must implement

  1. Journey Management

A journey management policy covers things like pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, schedules, routes, and emergency procedures. The goal of a journey management policy is to ensure your drivers minimize their risk of breakdowns and other emergencies on the road. These emergencies are expensive and often dangerous.

  1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents in the U.S. Most notably, distracted driving includes texting and driving. However, it also includes speaking with a hands-free device, day-dreaming, rubbernecking, talking to passengers, eating or drinking while driving, and much more. Distracted driving causes serious and even fatal accidents. That’s why you have a moral obligation to prevent distracted driving. You can also have a financial incentive.

Your distracted driving policy should include examples of distracted driving, a strict no-phones policy, and resulting punishments for breaking the policy.

  1. Seat Belts

The use and need of seat belts are so obvious that we don’t need to explain. But you must clarify it for your employees. Simply put: your drivers’ risk of death greatly increases when they refuse to wear a seat belt.

  1. Drugs & Alcohol

Similar to seat belt usage, this one is obvious. Drugs and alcohol use by drivers greatly increases the risk of collision. This includes alcohol, marijuana, stimulants, depressants, and more. Sadly, though, drug and alcohol use while driving is common in many industries. You must protect yourself and your employees from this with a drug and alcohol policy.

Fleet safety policies are crucial for establishing expectations, rules, procedures, and punishments regarding safety. Implementing them, you will have a drastic reduction in accidents, injuries, and cost of loss. The money you save will probably double what you invested to put the program into place.

Safety for your fleet with technology and planning

A fleet has no greater asset than its drivers. Protecting the health and well-being of your drivers and ensuring they get home safely to their families each night is critical. Your drivers’ behavior and performance are also the key to your company’s reputation, reliability, and profitability. As a result, keeping them safe, retaining them as employees, and building a culture of safety together is of utmost importance.

While driver safety is paramount, many of these safety solutions also come with additional benefits. A well-implemented solution can reduce insurance and collision costs, assist in fleet maintenance management, offset the impact of volatile fuel prices, and provide both high-level visibility into how your fleet is running, and profound insights into individual driver behavior. The better prepared businesses are to implement these safety solutions, the more success they will find. This data is taken from the Fleet Safety Report 2022. 

The study shows that 74% thought GPS tracking was very or extremely effective in helping improve safety, with 68% of those using dash cams. Not only do GPS tracking and dash cams prove to make fleets safer, but training and safety policies set them up for success. Around three fifths of fleet safety professionals surveyed relied on driver training (65%) and written safety policies and procedures (59%) as their key fleet safety strategies. A main sticking point (41%) was turning plans into reality.

What safety strategies are fleets using?

One way businesses have found success in this area is creating policies tailored for this purpose. Many organizations already have policy manuals to detail what they expect from drivers, from speeding to taking breaks. As the technology evolves, so can the policy. Many companies offer templates to make it easier for businesses to fill in the information for a complete policy to add to a manual.

In addition, driver bonuses can help create benchmarks and safety goals, and drivers will know that safety is non-negotiable when coming on to the team, which also helps build a culture that considers safety a top priority. Currently, only 25% of fleet professionals surveyed noted that they used advanced safety technologies, such as fatigue monitoring, in-cab alerts of distracted driving, upcoming hazards, and driver behavior telematics.

Top 10 strategies to prioritize safety at your organization: 

1 – Make an organization-wide dedication to focus on fleet safety goals

2 – Use templates for policies and procedures to guide the steps along the way

3 – Have leaders use the technology as an example for others

4 – Lean on your technology provider to help you define and realize your goals

5 – Use telematics alerts and reporting knowing which drivers would benefit most from coaching, and use the data to avoid ‘he said, she said’ type conversations

6 – Establish the KPIs that matter most to your business and track against them

7 – Survey drivers and technicians to understand what incentives will get them on board with your policies

8 – Consider making safety fun through gamification and contests, such as driver scorecards and public rewards for driver improvement

9 – Share overall progress with your team, so they know their efforts are appreciated and contributing to a safer, stronger organization

10 – Understand it takes time to change a culture, but keep going

How fleet manager’s roles work with EVs

If you’re not on a continual quest as a fleet manager to use data to hone your processes, create efficiencies, and conserve your fleet budget, you’re not doing your job.

Over the years, you’ve figured out how to manage well enough through automated rules and exception reporting. But there was always the promise that these systems could talk to each other and that information would flow through a single pane of glass, although that never happened. And that’s okay because the benefits offered by these individual systems are more than enough to offset the extra management hassle.

But now we have electric vehicles. EVs are more than just an internal combustion engine (ICE) swapped for a battery. They’re computers on wheels — and they bring new and heightened requirements around connectivity, software management, and data mining along with them.

And now, what changes in your role as a manager?

Unlike fueling an ICE engine, EVs can take eight hours or more to reach 80% capacity on a Level 2 charger. This dictates remote monitoring of home or depot chargers, often after work hours, to make sure they are, in fact, plugged in and receiving juice. An EV that fails to charge will really screw up your next day.

Understanding Battery State-of-Charge

With EVs’ limited ranges and the lack of public infrastructure, fleet managers need to know how much juice their EVs have left to strategize on how not to get stranded.  

Reimbursing for Home EV Charging

Another aspect of home charge management for fleets involves separating utility bills by personal and work expense for fleet vehicle charging, and then reimbursing the employee accurately.

Managing Vehicle, Driver Data

Managing vehicle and driver data is still important in the ICE world, but takes on even greater importance with EVs. These data sets are needed to understand battery efficiency (the costliest component of an EV by far) and how range is affected by factors such as driving style and payload, stops, road grade, and external temperature.

So, the industry has already overcome these challenges. If you’re about to embark on your EV pilot, it’s better to be prepared for them before you start.

Ready-Mix concrete market growing to exhibit a remarkable CAGR of 8.50% by 2029

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Global Ready-Mix Concrete Market was valued at USD 181.14 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 1427.31 billion by 2029, registering a CAGR of 8.50% during the forecast period of 2022-2029. The increasing investments in the construction industry extend profitable opportunities to the market players in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029.

North America dominates the market in terms of market share and market revenue, and will continue to flourish its dominance during the forecast period of 2022-2029. The market growth over this region is attributed to the increase in new infrastructure projects within the region.

We know that the recent outbreak of coronavirus had a negative impact on the ready-mix concrete market. The severe disruptions in various manufacturing, as well as the supply chain operations due to the various precautionary lockdowns, hampered the market. During the COVID-19 outbreak’s lockdown, the various end users of the ready-mix concrete market were impacted. Construction activity had slowed around the world, resulting in a considerable reduction in the demand for ready-mix concrete. 

On the brighter side, the increasing investments in the construction industry extend profitable opportunities to the market players in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029. Additionally, due to its great convenience, improved quality, and ease of use, the product is frequently utilized as a substitute for unusual concrete, further expanding the future growth of the ready-mix concrete market.

Managing the Fleet

To deliver ready-mixed concrete profitably, communications between dispatchers, drivers, and customers are crucial. Along with time constraints of a perishable product comes the need to balance customer orders with available trucks.

The vehicle location system’s versatility has a major impact on coordinating business. That’s because the system integrates a real-time, enhanced Global Positioning System (GPS) vehicle tracking function with an onboard data recorder, wireless, real-time, and two-way in-cab communications terminals. All vehicle location and status information, as well as fleet management reports, are delivered via the Internet.

The status and location of each truck needs to be as accurate as the driver’s input. There was constant chatter between dispatchers trying to confirm or get updates on locations and the status of each truck. This results in a much quieter, much more efficient dispatch department.

Survey shows carriers remain optimistic about demand

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Carriers are optimistic about growth in volume and rates this year, despite rising fuel and equipment costs that are squeezing profitability, according to the latest Bloomberg and Truckstop.com survey. 

About 72% of respondents expect load growth over the next six months, vs. 71% in 4Q and 1Q a year ago. Temperature-controlled carriers were most optimistic with 77% expecting higher volume, followed by 74% of flatbed carriers who are benefiting from a strong housing market.

Fewer carriers are optimistic when looking at rates: About 55% of respondents expect spot rates (ex-fuel surcharges) to rise in the next six months, vs. 59% in 4Q. About 14% of carriers expect rates to decline over the next six months, in-line with historical averages. Only 2% of truckers polled expect rates to drop quickly this year, and another 32% expect them to slowly moderate.

More carriers are hauling fewer loads: Truckload spot demand rose 4.3% year-over-year in 1Q, based on the Bloomberg | Truckstop.com survey, a seventh straight quarterly gain after dropping 16% in 2Q20 as the pandemic began. Median volume growth was closer to flat, given the wide divide between those carriers experiencing growth and those not moving as many loads. About 37% of respondents hauled more loads vs. 1Q21. About 32% recorded a drop vs. 25% in 4Q21 as the number of carriers who experienced flat volume decreased to 31% sequentially from 38%.

Rising fuel costs are a concern for carriers: About 56% of carriers said that higher fuel costs are the industry’s greatest challenge. Lower rates are the second-biggest concern in 2022 at 21% of the sample, followed by the weakening economy (16%). Despite these concerns, about 69% of those surveyed anticipate the truckload market will remain tight this year.

How can Fuel Tracking Technology help you save fuel?

  • Reduce engine idle time
  • Have better control of the routes taken by vehicles
  • Know how efficient drivers are being
  • Create the best routes for vehicles

Link2Pump services account across the US, helping businesses to save human and financial resources in the fuel tracking and reporting process. By automating and managing fuel dispensing from bulk storage tanks, we turn a complex process into a simple experience.

Link2Pump Pedestal automates the fueling process on-site, capturing the data points you need and sending them to your online account in real-time. Account access is available from any device, anywhere, any time. Fully compatible with mechanical, digital, and electronic dispensers, each unit controls up to 4 fueling points and features extensive data input options and restriction capabilities.

Loss of fuel, or fuel that goes unaccounted for, is a sometimes-overlooked expense. Fuel theft is nearly a $133 billion issue that includes stolen, adulterated, and defrauded products. But here’s the good news: Fuel loss can be prevented, and the bottom line can be protected. Card-locking control technology combats the potential of fuel theft by allowing only authorized individuals to access fuel.

When fuel can account for up to 50% of a job’s total operating costs, it’s important to do everything possible to protect fuel assets. 

Our company has solutions for several industries, such as agriculture, aviation, construction, government, marinas, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and utilities. If you want to learn more about our solution and are searching for alternatives to improve the bottom line and productivity, please get in touch.

 

Electric vehicle demand – has the world got enough lithium?

As the auto industry shifts away from fossil fuels and toward battery power, lithium is in the spotlight. Demand for the metal has skyrocketed recently, as has its price.

The bad news for the world is that it potentially has nowhere near enough of it to power all the electric vehicle (EV) batteries it wants – and needs.

Global EV purchases jumped to 6.6 million in 2021 from 3 million a year earlier, meaning that EVs made up 9% of the market, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). They accounted for all the growth in worldwide car sales, which rose to 66.7 million last year, up from 63.8 million in 2020. This implies that non-EV sales fell by 700,000.

How much lithium does an EV need?

A lithium-ion battery pack for a single electric car contains about 8 kilograms (kg) of lithium, according to figures from US Department of Energy science and engineering research center Argonne National Laboratory.

Global lithium production totaled 100,000 tons (90.7 million kg) last year, while worldwide reserves stand at about 22 million tons (20 billion kg), according to the US Geological Survey. 

Dividing lithium production by the amount required per battery shows that enough lithium was mined last year to make just under 11.4 million EV batteries.

What are car companies doing about it?

Uncertainty around the supply of lithium has pushed automakers to go straight to the source and secure their own supplies. Ford announced agreements with lithium companies that will allow it to build 600,000 electric vehicles per year starting in 2023. General Motors has made similar deals. 

Both have made a point of inking deals with US-based suppliers. After being burned by the ongoing computer-chip shortage, automakers want to avoid becoming over reliant on imports. Most of the current lithium supply is mined in South America or Australia and processed in China. Tesla has said it’s looking into processing lithium itself.

Securing enough battery-grade lithium is one of the most difficult challenges automakers face in the near term. Sources of the metal are still fairly limited because there wasn’t much demand for it until EVs started taking off. But the industry is working to grow supply.

Common causes of semi-truck breakdowns

While semi truck towing is an option available at your disposal in the event of a breakdown, it is ideal that you know the most prevalent causes of semi-truck breakdowns, so you can prepare accordingly.

Tire Blowout

When hauling heavy loads across vast distances, tire blowouts can be a significant concern. To minimize the risk of a blowout, you should always stay up to date with rotation and other relevant maintenance needs. Driving with correct tire pressure can also help to prevent blowouts.

Overheating

Overheating can be caused by a variety of problems. Oftentimes, this is due to a bad radiator cap or leaking coolant. If there’s coolant bubbling up around a head gasket, then there’s a good chance that your head gasket will need to be replaced. Moreover, overheating could result from a thermostat that isn’t properly opening and closing.

Oil Leak

With an oil leak, insufficient lubrication could result in metal-on-metal contact, causing moving parts to fail. Oil leaks should be addressed soon after they’re identified. And by always keeping current with your truck’s oil changes, you’ll greatly reduce the risk of damage occurring due to friction.

Battery or Alternator

Your truck’s battery or alternator can be very prone to breakdowns. Fortunately, you will always notice warning signs if there are any issues with the battery or the alternator.

For instance, when you notice your light flickering while your truck is idle, you need to check your truck’s alternator or battery right away.

That is why preventive maintenance is essential for keeping a fleet on the road. By using a maintenance schedule and regularly inspecting essential vehicle components, fleet managers can extend the lifespan of their fleet vehicles and reduce unplanned downtime.

Increasingly, longer-term preventative and predictive maintenance is the preferred answer. For managers, knowing how to streamline this maintenance approach will make it easier to avoid disruptions without making inspections or repairs less effective.