December 2016 9logisticstechoutlook.comsubmitting delivery paperwork is often handled from the cab of a truck. And in the case of companies with multiple trucks and drivers, owners may need to dispatch loads to other drivers--even if they're on the road themselves. It's drastically different from the way many shippers operate. When working at a desk in an office, mobile technology is just one of several convenient options. But for carriers, a mobile solution may be the only way they can stay connected. After all, it's pretty difficult to bring a desktop computer on the road. Even laptops and tablets--while smaller--don't have as many connectivity options as they primarily rely on WiFi hotspots. Whereas a smartphone can connect anywhere the cell phone provider's latest 3G or 4G coverage extends.How Shippers Benefit from Carrier TechnologyThere are numerous benefits for shippers when carriers and drivers are properly supported through technology. · Connectivity means visibilityWith the right technology (i.e., mobile technology), carriers and drivers are more likely to be connected most or all of the time. This leads to a new level of visibility for shippers. It allows the logistics provider and shipper to find out about a truck breaking down after only five minutes rather than five hours after the delivery was scheduled. This close level of visibility makes it easier to address issues before they become full-blown problems. ·Faster documentation submissionsIf the logistics provider's carrier technology has mobile documentation support (and it really should) it's faster and easier for carriers to submit paperwork. Many tools even let carriers take pictures on their phone and upload directly from there. Eliminating the need for bulky scanners, fax machines, or truck stop hardware means carriers can be timelier in these areas of business, which in turn helps close invoices and resolve outstanding claims faster and with less hassle.· Accurate data collectionData automatically collected via a carrier smartphone app will probably be more accurate and timely than relying on check calls and human estimates. Improving a supply chain relies heavily on analysis of historical shipping data, but it's only helpful if that data is accurate. Basing a decision solely on anecdotal estimates passed on from a driver to a dispatcher to the provider's representative can sometimes feel more like a game of telephone rather than accurate planning. It's much easier to make supply chain changes and improvements based on accurate data pulled straight from a single technology source. Tomorrow's Outlook for Carrier TechnologyToday's logistics industry faces problems ranging from recruitment to static pay rates and many are turning to technology to help. Already the use of mobile technology is booming in the trucking industry, and more industry-specific mobile apps are on the market from both logistics providers and other companies every day. Apps to improve safety or compliance, apps that make efficient use of a driver's time, and apps that connect carriers and shippers are all vying for the top spot with carriers. Technology adoption rates in the industry are likely to climb as new offerings help improve carrier efficiency and contain costs. We'll continue to see the number of carrier-focused apps grow for some time, but those that stand the test of time will need these three things to be successful:· Easy to use and learn interfaceNo one has time to read lengthy manuals to understand how to use an app. Any successful carrier technology must be easily navigated by even the most basic user and deliver all relevant information clearly and concisely. · Wide variety of tools and capabilitiesAn app that uses GPS to track a shipment is great, but it won't compare to one that can do that and allows for document upload directly from the device. Going back to the easy to use aspect, carriers will prefer an app that can do everything rather than switching across many apps to get the job done.· Direct connections to freight opportunitiesCarriers, no matter how big or small, need to keep their equipment full and on the road. A technology solution that directly connects them to hundreds or thousands of loads across the country or the world will be more valuable than those that don't. · Trucks are crucial to our economyAs long as products continue to be bought and sold, effective transportation will be necessary. No matter what the future of carrier technology holds, smart logistics providers will focus on and support carriers in all aspects of their business so they can improve performance, profitability, and efficiency--all while on the road. One system can easily diminish any gaps that may occur when information exists across multiple systems
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