As of 2021, the American Trucking Association predicts that there will be an 80,000-driver shortfall. More than 160,000 truck drivers could be needed by 2030 if the current shortage trend continues, according to industry experts. The pandemic, supply chain crisis, and growing truck driver shortage is causing major delays in deliveries. As a consumer and a business owner, you need to know what the future holds.
Supply shortages, soaring pricing, and a scarcity of qualified truck drivers are among the issues affecting the trucking business. The root cause of the majority, if not all, of these issues, may be traced back to Covid-19. In times of labor shortage, it is particularly widespread among truck drivers, who are particularly vulnerable to Covid-19 because of the distances they travel and the number of people they come into contact with while on the job.
Scientists warn that because of these circumstances, it is probable that the virus will produce a truck driver syndemic based on the Covid-19 virus (disease cluster). Safety concerns are high in the sector, as employers strive to provide safer and cleaner work environments. As a result of this challenges with productivity will arise in addition to debates over immunizations.
Freight challenges that will arise in 2022 and in the future can be resolved through technological solutions. It is necessary for trucking companies to take a number of particular actions in order to be pursuant on the path toward embracing innovative freight technology. First and foremost, they need to seriously consider making these technological investments in their fleets for the sake of efficiency improvements.
A good example of freight technology that can help you save money on fuel is a powertrain. Powertrains are faster and more efficient than other modes of transportation due to the fact that their engines are smaller and lighter. Driver safety and comfort must also be prioritized by companies when implementing new technologies.
When it comes to retention, trucking companies should focus on the improvement of driver experiences their top priority in the coming year. In the trucking sector, adequate remuneration is still a major concern, especially in a world plagued by pandemics and epidemics. Fair wages, as well as safe work surroundings and suitable rest facilities, are all rights that truck drivers should enjoy.
Providing a better overall experience for truckers is critical to the industry’s long-term sustainability. In order to maximize driver workflow, companies must also concentrate on their retention and recruitment initiatives. It is possible for trucking companies that implement fleet management, workflow, and route optimization software to achieve enhanced operational efficiency. Thus far, also providing drivers with a more seamless and stress-free driving experience.
Studies have shown that organizations that place a high priority on driver comfort have fewer drivers who suffer from motorway tiredness. There are a variety of technologies that businesses can implement to improve driver safety and comfort. Seats with reduced pressure points, for example, are one such implementation. Employers can also place a high priority on the well-being of their truck drivers by instituting wellness checks and providing protective equipment.
What are some ways for trucking companies to utilize new technologies?
The development of new tools and innovations that are focused on predictive analysis and automation is incredibly advantageous. One such tool is the use of autonomous tracking, which is described below. In this case, firms are utilizing technology to develop automobiles that are capable of evaluating road conditions and so improving fuel efficiency. Fleets and drivers will be better prepared for anticipated delays and will be able to optimize routes more effectively if they incorporate these technologies into their 2022 planning.
According to Avi Geller, CEO of Maven Machines, trucking businesses must take advantage of the training and education opportunities available to them. Events, incentive-based programs, and even social media posts are some of Geller’s suggestions of how to expand and improve proper technology adoption and use, among other things.
In order to successfully integrate freight technology, there must be a lack of data consistency, a fear of long-haul investment, and concerns about pandemic safety. It is essential to standardize data, especially in the freight business, where millions of data points are generated on a daily basis. Lack of uniformity can be a problem, as it might result in data sets that are completely useless.
One of the most significant obstacles to firms realizing their full potential with freight technologies is the fear of making long-term investments. Successful adoption of technology, on the other hand, results in a return on investment.
The success of using new technology should be judged in terms of efficiency, cost reduction, and the morale of the workforce and management. In the trucking sector, driver safety and comfort are extremely vital to the entire performance of the supply chain, especially when it comes to long hauls.
Vehicle fleets should continue to place a high priority on completely automated software in real-time route optimization and supply chain planning throughout the following calendar year. Trucking companies who make use of data-driven route optimization tools will see significant improvements in both knowledge and efficiency over time.
Disruptions in the supply chain problem are not projected to be remedied until 2022, according to predictions. In the meanwhile, corporations must place a high priority on the well-being of its drivers as well as the development of new technology. Companies may increase their efficiency and profit rates by investing in new fleet additions, as well as driver safety and cleanliness, while also beginning to unclog the current supply chain tangle.
Conclusion
The trucking industry is heading towards some turbulent times. However, companies that embrace new technologies, focus on creating a better work environment and exercise flexibility will be the ones to weather the storm. The are no guarantees for business sustainability or driver retention, however, staying ahead of the curve will always be advantageous over those companies that fail to adapt.
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