SupplyChain Magazine August 2014 | Page 32

TECHNOLOGY
TRUCKING AND ROAD freight is an integral and fundamental facet of the supply chain which connects the links and drives the entire process .
As such , optimising transportation is a key area of opportunity for supply chain managers to improve efficiency , increase revenue and maximise customer service . To do this , managers need detailed information about trailers , particularly location and whether they are connected or disconnected to a tractor , are loaded or empty and if they are secure .
Without constant visibility of trailers , managers are often challenged with serious issues such as temporarily lost trailers , an increase in cargo theft , reduced driver productivity while searching for empty trailers , inability to identify trailer detention issues , and the prospect of manually inventorying trailer location and status all of which clearly negatively impact return on investment ( ROI ) and partner relationships .
This is where trailer tracking systems emerge as a key tool , improving cargo visibility and ensuring shipments stay on course . Untethered tracking systems that continue to provide data on trailers even after being
Constant visibility of trucking performance
disconnected from the tractor help provide essential trailer information in a timely manner , and increase the chance of recovery in the event of theft .
Trailer Utilisation Trailer utilisation is an important metric that helps determine how efficiently trailers are being used to generate profits .
Since carriers are losing productivity
32 August 2014