In today’s busy transportation world, organization is both increasingly difficult and more important than ever. Fleet owners, carriers and logistics companies have an enormous amount to keep track of and coordinate. Enter GPS. Though not a new technology, advanced GPS is now being used in load tracking devices to collect and transfer data, and it could be a game-changer in the world of transportation logistics. Learn more as we explore three areas in which GPS tracking is making a big impact.
Improved Fleet Management and Planning
The primary advantage tracking offers is better organization overall for the fleet, its drivers and its managers, according to CustomerThink. By monitoring where all fleet vehicles and products are located at all times, this technology places an enormous amount of valuable information in the fleet coordinators’ hands. They are able to plan driver assignments, and operations in general, optimize routes and make key decisions more effectively for smoother transportation operations.
Tracking also aids communication by maintaining a constant connection with fleet vehicles and workers, transmitting statistics and updates from vehicles en route. This knowledge then allows operators to stay updated on product locations, make updates and fulfill maintenance needs almost immediately, reducing delays and unnecessary waste. In case of problems, the situation can also be reported, investigated and dealt with promptly, with as little damage and delay as possible.
All of this adds up to enhanced efficiency overall. Better planning, optimization and connection means greater fuel efficiency, less downtime and faster reactions — in short, a cohesive network that makes everything run more smoothly.
Extra Security and Safety
As a result of this connection and information exchange, the entire transportation process becomes more secure. The company can monitor shipments to ensure their safe status and on-track progress. Considering that the US loses an estimated $30 billion in cargo theft annually, with an average loss per theft of nearly $200,000 in 2017, according to CargoNet, the value of this added security can’t be overstated. With GPS load tracking, companies and customers alike can keep an eye on shipments, prevent theft and more easily recover stolen goods. In addition to theft protection, tracking also helps secure against simple loss and accident, which is hardly rare with the massive volume of freight moving around the world at any given time. On top of that, the extra monitoring can enhance driver performance and safety through added oversight and communication.
Enhanced Customer Service and Satisfaction
The bottom line for much of this is better service. Products reach customers faster, operations are more secure and transparent and the transportation company provides a better service overall. Particularly as tracking allows customers to watch shipment progress themselves, this makes customers more confident about the security of their products and more satisfied with the experience. Which is, of course, simply good business.
SmartWay is a third party logistics company based in Kansas City. To learn more about shipping options and services, visit our website.