The Importance of Telematics in the Trucking Industry

Transportation companies have many priorities when it comes to managing their fleet including road and driver safety, customer satisfaction, rising costs, and fleet maintenance, to name a few. This is why telematics is becoming increasingly important to the trucking industry and to the customers it serves.

Here are 5 reasons why we love telematics and why you should too:

1.  Driver behaviour: Truck drivers represent your company – often with tractors and trailers branded with your corporate logo and colours. Through telematics, fleet managers can monitor driver behavior including jack rabbit starts, sudden braking, sharp turns, fast acceleration, and sudden lane crossings. This alerts supervisors that further training or disciplinary action is needed. Safe driving ensures your brand is properly represented on the roads and that your product is delivered safely, and on-time.

2.  GPS tracking: GPS tracking solutions ensure your product is delivered where it is needed, when it is needed. With full fleet visibility, the position of the fleet can be remotely tracked to ensure routes are optimized, and delays are minimized. ETA notifications can also be provided for estimated arrival times through text/email notification to schedule staff and reduce downtime on the loading dock.

3.  Maintenance and repairs: Telematics vehicle diagnostics provide key engine performance data and help track total vehicle mileage. This assists in identifying which vehicles are in need of preventative maintenance and/or repairs, therefore reducing the risk of costly vehicle breakdowns and delivery delays.

4.  Security: In addition to tractor hardware, telematics can also offer trailer monitoring for increased cargo security. Door sensors can be engaged to send alerts when the doors are opened or closed and for reefer trailers, temperature sensors report changes with an accuracy of +/- 0.5 degrees Celsius to prevent costly damages. As well, GPS tracking and alerts let fleet managers keep track of all trailers at all times, a very important feature if a truck is stolen or damaged.

5.  Reporting: Telematics provides near real-time reporting for both the tractor and trailer which allows for data mining and customized reporting. The information can then be used to improve service levels, manage drivers, and provide rich information on deliveries.

The integration of telematics into Canada Cartage’s fleet provides customers with tools that give them a competitive advantage in the marketplace through better fleet visibility, driver transparency, and increased productivity.

Canada Cartage’s telematics is part of a suite of technology solutions that is being offered to our customers as part of a complete range of outsourced transportation service offerings. Contact us at info@canadacartage.com for more information.