The importance of planning trips in trucking

Upon the passage of the ELD Mandate, it was clear that trucking companies would be forced to reconsider many of their strategies.

One of which was trip planning for their drivers. With trucking operations no longer able to use AOBRD or paper logs, they’re forced to adapt to the rules and regulations put forward by the FMCSA’s ELD Mandate.

Consequently, trip planning has become an important factor in running a successful company in 2020. By planning a trip and securing loads early, drivers and dispatchers give each other enough time to work within the hours of service rules that are tracked by an ELD.

Of course, planning well ahead of time is a luxury for some. When it comes down to it, truckers depend on load boards and sometimes have to wait until the last minute to book a load to get optimal pricing.

However, not establishing a solid plan well ahead of time can create difficulties while you’re on the road. For example, by booking a load at least a week in advance (which yes, can be difficult) truckers can plan their routes effectively, while also consider things like parking reservations and stops.

In a last-minute planning scenario, however, truckers may lose precious hours of service stuck in traffic, as they did not give themselves enough time to plan their routes. This may then push back drop-off times, which ultimately only affects their pockets. 

So, how does one go about planning ahead of time effectively? 

Well, in addition to working with a good dispatcher, a comprehensive software solution can also go a long way in aiding the process of planning a trip and securing loads.

By leveraging a Transportation Management System, companies can make sure that all their documents and information are in one place for them to access when necessary. Additionally, it allows them to stay organized when they need to start planning their trips.

Additionally, it can just improve your operation as a whole. By tracking drivers and equipment, integrating all your much-needed apps like Quickbooks, Google Maps, and load boards, along with merging full and LTL loads, you can completely reinvigorate your company. 

Completely organizing your company from A to Z, transportation companies no longer have to worry about using a couple of different apps to stay organized. They can have it all in one place. 

UTECH offers UTECH TMS, which is an all-inclusive solution that offers all of the aforementioned features, and so much more. Click here to learn more!

So, what do you think about trip planning? Has it helped you in the past? Let us know in the comments or on social media!

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