Use Technology

One of the easiest ways to improve communication between truckers and dispatchers/fleet managers is by using technology. Many companies use software or apps that allow drivers to send messages directly to their supervisors, track shipments in real-time, and receive updates on traffic conditions or other issues that could impact delivery times.

Establish Clear Guidelines

Another important way to improve communication is by establishing clear guidelines for how drivers should communicate with their supervisors. This might include setting expectations around response times for messages or phone calls, as well as outlining what types of information should be communicated (such as changes in delivery schedules or equipment problems).

Be Proactive

Truck drivers can also take a more proactive approach to communication by keeping their supervisors informed about potential issues before they become major problems. For example, if a driver notices an issue with their vehicle during a routine pre or post-trip inspection, they should immediately notify their supervisor so that repairs can be scheduled without delay.

Share Feedback

It’s also important for both truck drivers and dispatchers/fleet managers to share feedback with each other on a regular basis. This could involve discussing what’s working well in terms of communication (such as preferred methods of contact) and what areas could be improved upon (such as response times). By working together to identify areas for improvement, both sides can take steps towards more effective communication overall.

Be Respectful and Patient

Finally, it’s essential for all parties involved in the transportation process to be respectful and patient when communicating with one another. This means avoiding aggressive or confrontational language when addressing issues or concerns, as well as being willing to listen carefully to others’ perspectives before responding. When everyone involved approaches communications with respect and patience, misunderstandings are less likely to occur – ultimately leading to better outcomes for all involved.

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“What’s ultimately the issue here?” said one truck driver who had been stuck since 12:30 a.m. Thursday. “Nobody was prepared for it.”

Amid the heavy Oregon snowfall, drivers found themselves not only stuck on the road, but also met with an inadequate response to their plight from state authorities. As a result of the slow action taken by the ODOT, these individuals faced significant disruptions in navigating through inclement conditions.

“You know, in different states, they’re a little bit more coordinated,” said Roy Skinner, speaking from the cab of his truck on the Interstate 5 ramp to Interstate 84 East.

Traffic chaos ensued near the Lloyd District when the I-84 ramp become blocked by a pair of semis that become wedged together on the narrow, icy passage. Traffic was blocked in this area for the entirety of the night.

“If there was anybody on I-5, I-84, or 205 that had any type of life-threatening emergency … they probably would have died,” said one motorist who got caught in the backup. “There was no getting through that traffic, at all.”

Staffing Shortages at ODOT

ODOT is hampered by a shortage of manpower, according to spokesman Don Hamilton. This has caused their snow removal efforts across the state to be slowed down significantly.

“We were hoping to do better than we did on that,” he said. “We are down in staff right now, we can’t get the roads cleared as quickly as we hoped to because we’re not at full staff.”

In the rapid-onset snowstorm, ODOT was taken by surprise as the roads quickly filled up with stranded vehicles in record time. In some cases, this rapid accumulation of abandoned cars prevented crews from moving through to clear out snow.

This issue continued into Thursday and eventually prompted a full shutdown of southbound I-205 across the Glenn Jackson Bridge for several hours as ODOT crews worked to clear and de-ice the roads for traffic to resume later that day.

“Mother Nature hits us hard sometimes and we go with the tools we best we can, and sometimes Mother Nature wins, and in this case, Mother Nature won,” Hamilton said.

Source: KGW8

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“Tonnage has increased nicely in the last couple of months,” ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello said in a Feb. 21 news release. “I suspect that some of the gain is attributable to capacity coming out of the network, especially those carriers that primarily operate in the spot market and/or bought expensive used equipment in the last couple of years.”

“This would push more freight to contract carriers, which dominate this index,” Costello continued. “It could also be that freight bottomed and is coming up a little, too. So, the gain is likely a little higher demand and a little less supply.”

The index, which uses 2015 as a benchmark of 100, saw a modest increase in January 2023 at 117.1 compared to December 2022’s 116.2 reading and January 2022’s 115.3 record figure – demonstrating slow but steady growth in the months since.

The January year-over-year gain marked the index’s 17th consecutive annual increase. Despite the modest gains in December 2022 and January 2023, tonnage is off 1.4% from a high in September 2022.

At this month’s Recruitment & Retention Conference, Costello predicted that although a mild recession might be on the horizon for 2023 in America, he is optimistic about how resiliently and strongly the freight industry will stand against it.

ATA calculates its monthly tonnage index based on surveys from its membership, and has been doing so since the 1970s.

The Logistics Managers Index which also closely follows the trucking, freight, warehouse, and transportation industries, declined in January 2023 when measured against 2022’s strong number during the pandemic, but increased from December 2022.

January’s LMI of 57.6, while higher than December’s 54.6, was down from the 2022 figure of 71.9. This marks the number’s second consecutive overall increase. The authors of the index noted that back-to-back rates of growth are notable as they come after a run of seven or eight months of declining growth.

The economists charged with compiling the LMI believe the economy is still strong.

“The big U.S. economic news in January was the 517,000 jobs that were added. This came a surprise to some given the high-profile rounds of layoffs occurring at places like Microsoft and FedEx,” Dale Rogers, professor of business at Arizona State University, said in the report. “The losses in tech were more than made up for by gains in other areas — including the transportation and warehousing sectors, which added 23,000 workers in January.”

“The Fed hinted that by slowing down the pace of rate increases they will give the economy time to catch up to the corrections they have already attempted to install,” Rogers said, “thereby avoiding the dreaded overcorrection. Much of the decrease in inflation is due to falling prices in products like food, energy and housing, all of which are particularly impactful to consumers.”

Each month the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals works in conjunction with researchers at Arizona State University, Colorado State University, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, and the University of Nevada-Reno to craft the LMI report to signify if things are looking up or on their way down in the industry. Any read of the LIM calculated above 50 indicates the logistics sector is expanding while anything below 50 indicates a contraction.

Despite some economists’ fears of a possible recession, DAT Analytics based in Beaverton, Oregon reports that its DAT Truckload Volume Index hit new high in January, confirming that trucking is still continuing to grow.

According to DAT, van freight’s Truckload Volume Index (TVI) is 2.8% higher than what it was in December 2022; it is also up 2.8% on the year-over-year scale. Meanwhile, the refrigerated TVI was 3% higher than in December 2022 with an even larger jump of 3.6 % year-over-year. Flatbeds saw double digit gains at increase of 10.7% from December 2022, outpacing all other categories by far and climbing 12.4% year-over-year.

“Volatility gave way to seasonality last month,” DAT Chief of Analytics Ken Adamo said. “After a gangbusters January last year, truckload rates followed a more typical pattern and volumes were remarkably steady this year.”

DAT said their TVI, which illustrates the number of freight loads moved each month, normalized so new data sources can be incorporated without distortion. The index had its baseline set at 100 for January 2015 and since then has been used to gauge changes in truck shipping activity over time.

U.S. Bank’s latest Freight Payment Index reported the steepest year-over-year plunge in truck shipments since 2020, with freight volume during peak shipping season dropping significantly in the fourth quarter of 2022.

The index showed that Q4 truck freight shipments contracted 7.1% year-over-year. That’s the largest drop since Q3 2020 and is down 4.6% compared with the third quarter of 2022.

The slowdown was driven by a significant contraction in the West, where volumes dropped 8.9% year-over-year and 10.6% compared with the third quarter of 2022.

Source: ttnews

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Dynamic pricing is a flexible pricing strategy that can adjust prices in real-time based on changes in market conditions. For example, if there is high demand for a particular product or service, prices can be raised to reflect this increased demand. Similarly, if supply levels are low or costs increase due to external factors like fuel prices or weather conditions, prices can be adjusted accordingly.

The concept of dynamic pricing has been around for decades and has been used in industries such as airlines and hotels where prices can fluctuate dramatically based on consumer demand. In recent years, there have been discussions about whether this pricing model will be adopted by the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry.

Potential Benefits for LTL Industry

The LTL industry operates in a highly competitive market with tight margins. Adopting dynamic pricing could potentially offer several benefits for carriers operating in this space.

To begin with, it could help carriers respond quickly to changes in market demand and adjust their rates accordingly. This would allow them to remain competitive while still maintaining profitability.

Additionally, dynamic pricing could help reduce the impact of seasonal fluctuations by adjusting rates during peak periods when capacity constraints are most severe.

Challenges Ahead

While there are potential benefits to adopting dynamic pricing within the LTL industry, there are also significant challenges that must be addressed before implementation.

One of the biggest challenges facing the adoption of dynamic pricing within the LTL industry is the complexity of rate structures. Carriers often have numerous variables that can affect rates depending on factors like shipment size and distance traveled. Implementing a dynamic pricing model would require significant changes to these complex pricing structures which could prove difficult and time consuming.

Another challenge is ensuring transparency and fairness in how rates are calculated under a dynamic pricing model. Customers need to understand why they’re being charged certain rates and feel confident that they’re not being overcharged due to unpredictable market conditions beyond their control.

Overall, it remains unclear whether dynamic pricing will become a common practice within the LTL industry anytime soon. While there are potential benefits associated with this approach, there are also significant challenges that must first be overcome.

But one thing is clear: Carriers will need to continue innovating if they want to remain competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Source: FreightWaves

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Advocacy and Representation

One of the primary benefits of joining a professional trucking association is that it provides you with representation and advocacy on important issues affecting the industry. Associations work hard to promote the interests of their members at the local, state, and national levels by lobbying for favorable legislation and regulations.

They also serve as an important voice when it comes to shaping public perception of the industry. By working together, members are able to raise awareness about crucial issues like safety concerns, cost issues, policy that affects the industry, driver shortages, and environmental sustainability.

Education and Training

Trucking associations often offer educational resources and training programs designed to help drivers stay up to date on industry trends and best practices. These programs may include seminars, webinars, online courses, or certifications that cover topics like safety protocols, regulatory compliance, fuel efficiency tips, technology advancements among others.

By participating in these educational programs offered by the association you belong to, you can enhance your skills as a driver or improve your knowledge as an industry professional.

Networking Opportunities

Professional trucking associations offer excellent networking opportunities for members. You’ll have the chance to connect with other drivers or professionals in the trucking industry who share similar experiences or interests. This can be particularly valuable if you’re looking for new opportunities or seeking advice from experienced peers.

Networking events hosted by associations may include conferences or trade shows where you can interact with vendors showcasing new products related to the trucking industry.

Discounts on Products and Services

Another benefit of being part of a professional trucking association is that members often receive discounts on various products and services related to their work. These discounts may include insurance policies specifically tailored for drivers or businesses within the transportation sector or even discounted prices on tires or fuel purchases.

Overall, joining a professional trucking association provides numerous benefits for both individual drivers as well as businesses operating in this sector. From advocacy efforts aimed at improving safety standards and promoting sustainability practices to educational opportunities designed to keep drivers informed about changes affecting their profession – there are plenty of reasons why becoming part of one could be beneficial for anyone involved in this field.

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What’s Being Proposed?

The FMCSA is proposing a rule that would loosen restrictions for its apprenticeship pilot program for 18–20-year-old drivers. The proposal, if approved, would allow these drivers in the program without holding a CDL, which is currently a prerequisite for younger drivers who wish to be trained by a carrier as part of FMCSA’s Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot.

The proposed rule would allow trainees holding a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) in the SDAP program so long as there is a valid CDL holder in the passenger seat as they drive. This would give them valuable experience and help them meet the minimum requirements for obtaining a CDL.

Why is this being considered now?

A recent request from LTL carrier Pitt Ohio asking that the CDL restriction be lifted for its trainee drivers has prompted the FMCSA to consider lifting the restriction for all carriers that want to register for the program.

“If granted, Pitt Ohio believes it would have less difficulty recruiting drivers to participate in the program,” the agency said in a recent notice.

“FMCSA also seeks comment on whether this exemption should be limited to Pitt Ohio, or whether it should be drafted to apply to any SDAP program participating motor carrier that is currently listed as a certified training provider for purposes of the [regulations], or that enters into a partnership with a certified training provider.”

Pitt Ohio estimates 25 CLP holders would operate under the exemption per year.

As it currently stands, the number of participants in the program is “far short of the up to 3,000 apprentices that the federal government was initially seeking says Tim Kordula, who runs Karl’s Transport Commercial Drivers CDL Training School. Given this information, Kordula feels the FMCSA’s proposal to ease the SDAP requirements does not come as a surprise.

As an early participant in the program, Kordula is a big supporter of the exemption Pitt Ohio is seeking.

“I know they have a training facility so they already have the students in class as we do, so this would be a huge plus to enroll them while still holding the CLP to get the jump-start on the SDAP,” Kordula told FreightWaves. “I think it would be a huge benefit for the program if FMCSA broadened the exemption for everybody.”

Why It Matters?

The trucking industry has been experiencing a shortage of qualified drivers in recent years. With an aging workforce and increased demand for goods transportation, there simply aren’t enough drivers to meet demand.

By easing the CDL requirement for trainees, the FMCSA hopes to encourage more people to enter the profession and fill this gap. This could also help address some of the safety concerns associated with inexperienced drivers by giving them more opportunities to gain hands-on experience before driving solo.

Potential Concerns

While many in the industry support this proposal, some have raised concerns about potential safety risks associated with allowing inexperienced drivers on the road – especially if the experienced driver is unable to provide proper guidance.

Additionally, some organizations argue that simply easing regulations won’t solve the underlying issue of driver shortages in the long term. Instead, they suggest focusing on improving working conditions and pay rates to attract more people into the profession.

The proposed rule by FMCSA represents an effort by regulators to address ongoing issues related to driver shortages in the trucking industry. While there are concerns about potential safety risks associated with easing CDL requirements for trainees, this approach could also offer significant benefits by providing more opportunities for new drivers entering into this field.

Ultimately, it will be up to stakeholders across all aspects of this industry – from regulators and employers down through individual drivers themselves – to work together towards finding solutions that balance safety with practicality when it comes to meeting our freight transportation needs.

Source: FreightWaves

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What Caused the Recall?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) raised concerns about Tesla’s Autopilot system after investigating several crashes involving Tesla vehicles. According to NHTSA, there were at least 11 incidents where Teslas on Autopilot hit parked emergency vehicles. In one case, a driver was killed in California when his Tesla crashed into a highway barrier while in self-driving mode.

Following these incidents, Tesla agreed to recall certain models that have been equipped with its Full Self-Driving (FSD) or Autopilot features. The recall affects Model S sedans built between 2014 and 2018, Model X SUVs built between 2016 and 2018, and Model Y SUVs made between 2020 and early 2021.

How Does This Affect the Trucking Industry?

While this recall is for passenger cars only, it highlights some of the risks associated with self-driving technology that could also impact the trucking industry. As more companies explore autonomous trucks as a means of improving efficiency and reducing costs, it’s important to consider the potential risks involved.

One major concern is cybersecurity; as trucks become more connected through IoT devices and other technologies, they may become vulnerable to cyber-attacks that could compromise their systems. Additionally, there’s also the risk of accidents like those seen with Teslas if autonomous trucks fail to recognize obstacles or operate erratically.

However, it’s worth noting that many experts believe self-driving technology has great potential for improving safety and efficiency in trucking. By reducing human error and improving fuel economy through optimized driving patterns, autonomous trucks could help save lives on the road while reducing transportation costs.

The recent recall of Tesla vehicles underscores some of the challenges associated with self-driving technology. As companies continue to explore autonomous trucks as a means of improving efficiency and reducing costs in the trucking industry, it’s important to address these challenges head-on by investing in robust cybersecurity measures and taking steps to ensure safe operation on our roads.

Source: TruckersReport

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According to ZF, the partnership was originally planned to deploy in 2020, but was delayed by “COVID and commercial matters.”

“We continue to work closely with our Commercial Vehicle customers to provide ADAS technology that can help to make the roadways safer for all travelers,” said Julien Plenchette, Senior Vice President, Americas with ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions division, adding that his company was pleased to integrate “this critical safety technology” into Paccar’s newest truck platform.

What is the ZF Driver Assistance Platform?

OnTraX Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) technology is being utilized to increase safety on the roads. Using a forward-facing camera, this system detects lane markings and activates when it has determined that the truck is in its lane and traveling at least 40mph. This advanced feature offers drivers timely corrective guidance if it senses the tractor has begun to drift from its lane without the turn signal activate and will enable gentle counter steering motions that help bring the truck back into proper position.

Conversely, when the turn signal is engaged, the driver can cross the lane without intervention. The system is also designed to recognize when critical maneuvers are being implemented by the driver due to hand wheel speed input from the driver, and will cease corrective intervention during obstacle avoidance.

The introduction of ZF’s Driver Assistance Platform represents an interesting development in trucking technology. Kenworth and Peterbilt are among the first manufacturers to adopt this system; however, it’s likely that more will follow suit in the coming years as demand for advanced safety features continues to grow.

Source: ccjdigital

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The Impact of Weather on Trucking Operations

Weather can affect all aspects of trucking operations, from scheduling deliveries to ensuring driver safety. Here are some ways in which weather can impact the industry:

Delivery schedules

Weather-related delays can throw off delivery schedules and cause disruptions in supply chains. Extreme weather events like hurricanes or blizzards can shut down entire regions and cause backlogs in shipments.

Driver safety

Driving in poor weather conditions increases the risk of accidents and injuries. Rain or snow can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, while high winds can cause trucks to sway or even tip over.

Equipment maintenance

Extreme temperatures or precipitation can cause wear and tear on trucks and trailers. For example, salt used to melt ice on roads during winter months can corrode metal parts if not cleaned properly.

Tips for Preparing for Weather Conditions

While you may not be able to control the weather, there are steps you can take to prepare for it. Here are some tips:

Check the forecast

Before hitting the road, check local weather forecasts along your route. This will give you an idea of what conditions to expect and allow you to plan accordingly.

Plan routes carefully

In adverse weather conditions, consider taking alternate routes that may be safer or less congested than your usual route, or have less large bridges as these can create additional hazards in adverse weather. Be sure to communicate any changes with dispatchers or fleet managers.

Maintain equipment regularly

Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping trucks in good condition year-round. During periods of extreme heat or cold, pay extra attention to tire pressure, battery health, and other components that may be affected by temperature changes.

Stock up on supplies

Keep emergency supplies like blankets, food, water, and first aid kits in your truck cab at all times in case you get stranded due to bad weather.

Weather is an inevitable part of life as a trucker; however, with careful planning and preparation, you can minimize its impact on your operations while maximizing driver safety. By implementing these tips, you’ll be better prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way – but remember no load is worth your life. Always drive to your comfort level. We truckers drive in a lot of adverse weather, but always  keep in mind that when conditions are too bad, it’s best to find a place to park and communicate with dispatch. Stay safe out there!

The post The Impact of Weather on Trucking Operations and How to Prepare for It appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“Truck driving remains at the core of our country’s economic abilities, and we see evidence of the growing need for new drivers every day,” FleetForce Owner Tra Williams said. “We’re excited to show what can be done to meet this tremendous need. Thanks to our new locations, there’ll soon be an influx of highly trained professional drivers on the road. That’s going to be a huge help to Florida industries, in addition to the U.S. supply chain and economy.”

Armed with strong partnerships, FleetForce is expanding its training network. Six new sites are set to open this year in collaboration with community colleges around Florida. Sites in Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Niceville, Daytona Beach, Ocala, and New Port Richey will join the existing lineup, and later this year the school has plans to launch in Lake City and Gainesville as well marking a total of eight new locations for the company’s initiatives throughout the state.

“Recruiting and retaining the next generation of professional truck drivers requires a paradigm shift — a change from the old model,” Florida Trucking Association President Alix Miller said. “The success of FleetForce is a direct reflection of improving accessibility, efficiency and promoting a new image of trucking for students. And with these new locations opening around Florida, trucking companies will have more local access to new, well-trained talent, further bolstering our workforce and the economy of Florida.”

Source: ttnews

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