In today’s Trucker Tools Market Index Report, we see capacity tightening in some Northeastern markets, while the Tucson, Ariz., reefer market continues to be one of the hottest reefer market in the country. Imports from China to the West Coast continue to surge, creating a traffic jam of container ships around Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif., which is impacting…
There’s no denying that real-time, digital freight tracking benefits your customers. Shippers value freight visibility because it helps them better manage their staffing and other resources. Digital load tracking also makes it easier for your customers to identify inefficiencies in their operations and supply chains. Real-time, digital load tracking improves the efficiency of your own operations and that of your…
It’s that time of year when it seems like there’s a new blizzard moving across the country every week, dumping several inches of snow and creating whiteout conditions, which makes driving difficult. Trucker Tools recently surveyed truckers and carriers like yourself about winter driving and how to deal with winter weather challenges. Nearly 200 drivers and carriers responded to our…
Nationwide reefer tender rejection rates went up slightly last week, as did reefer freight volumes. This reflects high demand and per mile rates for reefer capacity across many parts of the country. On the other side of the coin, dry van spot rates are trending down this week, which is as expected at this time of year. In today’s Trucker…
Since we created the first version of the Trucker Tools free app for truckers, we’ve added over a dozen new tools and features that help you save time and money on the road. From in-app cargo insurance and CDL legal protection options to reserved parking and a crowdsourced weigh scale locator, the Trucker Tools driver app has everything you need.…
Read Time: 5 minutes This how to guide will walk you through how to save load searches in the Trucker Tools app. You can quickly and easily search for your preferred type of load, loads for your preferred lanes, loads at specific locations, etc., the next time you enter the app. In this video, I will show you how to…
This is usually one of the slowest times of the year in trucking. Not this year, however. Distribution of several different COVID-19 vaccines, an increase in volumes at ports and the possibility of a second stimulus are all driving sustained demand for trucks. Companies have developed better systems and protocols for dealing with COVID-19 outbreaks, which has helped manufacturing rebound.…
The life expectancy of truckers is 16 years less than it is for people working in other professions. Long-haul truck drivers also are at a higher risk of becoming obese compared with adults in other occupations in the United States. The longer that truckers stay in the industry, the higher their risk is for developing high blood pressure, high triglycerides,…
It’s hard to believe it, but that’s another year in the books! In the last month of 2020, Trucker Tools’ blogs tackled some big topics to help you succeed in the new year. We interviewed driver Kim Loescher about how she maintains her health on the road and spoke with trucker Roni Bender for our top tips for new truckers…
An increase in freight at ports, consumer spending during the holiday season and a boost in manufacturing volume all made for a very busy December. In December, Trucker Tools shared several timely blog posts that offered guidance on how your brokerage/3PL can continue to grow in 2021 with the right technology-based tools. Our December blogs included an interview with freight…
Knowing where rates and demand will be high and where they’ll be low in the future is valuable information. When you can access this information in advance, you have time to get your truck(s) into hot markets before they heat up and out of cooling markets before they go cold. Trucker Tools’ newly launched Market Index Reports provide truckers and…
Increasing the efficiency of your operations boosts the overall productivity of your freight brokerage or logistics business. When you increase productivity, you can raise your profits margins and/or increase the volume of freight you move. Raising productivity also can ultimately benefit the shippers and carriers with whom you work. When you are able to do things such as share information…
Trucker Tools recently surveyed truckers like you to find out more about how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting you and your livelihood. We conducted the same survey back in April at the beginning of the pandemic. The truckers we surveyed recently say that they continue to struggle with reduced income, reduced hours at truck stops, extended detention time, increased restrictions…
If you’re looking for information on where to go for the highest rates, you’ve found it! Trucker Tools’ Market Index Report uses information from our driver app, broker software platforms and other sources to predict where rates and demand will be highest and lowest in the coming week. Unlike many rate/demand prediction tools, our Market Index Report is free for…
During a busy season like this, it may be difficult for you to make time for exercise or even for stretching your legs for a few minutes. Sitting too long and not moving enough, however, can cause injuries to your back, high blood pressure and even blood clots, depending on your health and family history. Movement also gets your blood…
Trucker Tools’ Market Index Report is a three times/week report that tells truckers like you where capacity will be most needed and where rates will declining in the coming week. Armed with this knowledge, you can get your truck(s) into hot markets in time to take advantage of high demand and rates — and avoid taking loads into areas where…
If you’re like most truckers, you struggle to keep your diet healthy and to find time to get in some exercise. What you may not know is that the average life expectancy for you as a trucker is 16 years less than it is for the rest of the population. It’s also true that the longer you work in the…
In today’s Trucker Tools Market Index Report, you’ll see that demand for flatbed capacity will remain high in industrial and manufacturing centers across the nation over the next week. Reefer demand also will stay elevated for border and port cities. As expected, demand and rates for dry van have decreased in many areas, as we enter a post-holiday lull for…
As a trucker, you do more than drive a truck and trailer. You also have to be a smart businessperson. You have to find loads, track loads for brokers, manage your expenses, navigate traffic and weather, deal with damaged or lost freight, find parking and lots more. Having the right tools on hand helps you manage all of these responsibilities,…
January is traditionally a slow month for freight, following the Christmas and New Year holidays. This year, however, may be a bit different given the events of 2020 and the continuing Covid-19 pandemic. Rates and demand have cooled slightly, but not by as much as in previous Januarys. Outbound tender volumes remain relatively high. Today’s Trucker Tools Market Index Report…
Happy New Year! As we turn the page on 2020 and enter our first week of the new year, Trucker Tools Market Index shows sustained demand for all types of capacity, but especially high demand for reefer. Outbound reefer tender rejection rates peaked at approximately 46 percent just before Christmas, and last week reefer rejection rates in some areas hit…
The Trucker Tools Market Index Report provides truckers and carriers like you with accurate information on where demand and rates are likely to be high in the next five to seven days. Our Market Index predicts capacity demand on a seven-day cycle, which gives you time to get your truck(s) into these hot markets to take advantage of high rates.…
We recently spoke with trucker health and fitness coach Mark Manera about his business, The Trucking Fitness Company, which helps truckers become more physically active. Mark and the co-owners of his company have launched an app and created an online health and fitness coaching system designed specifically for truckers. All of the exercises in the program can be done with…
Recently Prasad Gollapalli from Trucker Tools and Adrian Gonzalez from Adelante met to talk about: A recent survey of truckload carriers on the Trucker Tools Mobile Driver App, and what they identify as services, features and functions from brokers most important to them How today’s technologies can help small to mid-sized brokers punch above their weight and compete with the…
The needs and demands of both consumers and your shippers continue to evolve, which is why as a logistics provider, you have to continually reinvent yourself. What worked last year or a decade ago likely won’t be effective in today’s world of business. As the 2021 25th Annual Third-Party Logistics Study notes, “the future of an outsourced supply chain includes…
There’s never a dull moment in the trucking industry, that’s for sure. Blizzard and high winds warnings are in effect for the Interstate 29 corridor and portions of I-90 and I-94 in the Midwest. This storm is expected to move across the Midwest and Great Lakes into the Northeast tomorrow and into Friday. This incoming storm, as well as increased…
As we’ve seen this year, technology has led the way in giving companies greater adaptability and resiliency when markets are unpredictable. For freight brokerage and logistics companies like yours, the clearest path to greater resiliency and adaptability is digitization. When you use well-designed digital tools and platforms, you gain the ability to increase operational efficiency, scalability and profit margins, while…
Trucker Tools’ integration partnerships offer you greater efficiency, reduce your operational costs and simplify workflows in your freight brokerage/logistics business. We’re excited to announce that we’ve recently partnered with Tailwind Transportation Software, a company whose mission is to help carriers, brokers and 3PLs control the chaos that often accompanies running a transportation business. Our integration partnership with Tailwind makes it…
Trucker Tools’ three times/week Market Index Reports tell you exactly where to expect the highest demand and rates for flatbed, reefer, power only, van and other types of capacity over the next week. Our Market Index Report gives drivers and carriers like you the opportunity to take loads into these hot markets before they get hot, keeping you moving quality…
Why should you be reading every single one of Trucker Tools’ Market Index Reports? Simply put, our Market Index Reports help you stay ahead of rate and demand changes so that you can maximize your earnings. Instead of taking loads into markets where rates for reloads are low, check Trucker Tools’ Market Index Reports before you book your loads. Unlike…
Analysts and thought leaders in logistics are calling digital freight matching the big story of the year — and it’s easy to see why. Where traditional load boards come up short, digital freight matching shines. Trucker Tools’ digital freight matching uses machine learning technology and powerful algorithms to automatically match your open loads with the best available trucks from your…
It’s hard to believe it, but we’re nearing the end of 2020! With this being an even busier peak season than usual, many of you are running as many loads as you can right now to make up for the lull earlier in this roller coaster of a year. If you missed out on some of Trucker Tools’ November blogs…
Making your operations digital opens up a whole new world of possibilities for you as a logistics provider or freight broker. When you digitize your operations and reduce manual activities such as check calls, you do more than make your business more efficient and lower your operating costs. Digitization also provides tangible benefits to your current customers and helps you…
Chris Jolly cut his teeth in the transportation business at age 20 when he started working at a warehouse in Georgia. He spent four and a half years working at the warehouse, learning the ins and outs of the industry. Since then, Chris has worked in logistics sales and operations, and has held leadership roles with some of the biggest…
For truckers like you, peak shipping season really is the most wonderful time of the year. It’s the season when many retailers record the bulk of their sales and when rates are often at their highest. Demand for truck capacity is even more intense than usual right now because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many manufacturers also have ramped up their…
Trucker Tools recently introduced an exciting new option for logistics companies and freight brokers: Broker Advantage. With Broker Advantage, you can communicate and share information with carriers and drivers via Trucker Tools’ free app for drivers and free carrier platform. When you opt in on Broker Advantage, you can create a “home page” for your company within the Trucker Tools…
Transportation is a complicated business with a lot of moving parts. As a logistics company or freight broker operating in today’s market, you need tools in place that allow you to access accurate information on demand, make informed decisions quickly and adapt to new market conditions as needed. The right digital tools help you foster long-standing, productive relationships with top-performing…
Knowing in advance where rates will be high over the next week can help you get your truck(s) into hot markets to capitalize on demand. That’s true whether you’re an owner operator or a trucking company. Trucker Tools’ Market Index Report does just that. Using the data from our broker software platforms and digital tools for drivers and carriers, we…
Choosing a technology partner and the right software for your business are big decisions. Your choices impact your employees, profit margins and ability to meet the expectations of your customers. With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of the questions we frequently get from logistics providers and freight brokers and answered them as honestly as possible. Whether you’re…
Now that you’ve recovered from the most unusual Thanksgiving ever (thanks, COVID), let’s get caught up. In our November blogs, we provided you with a list of the top 10 tools every 3PL and freight broker should be using to stay competitive. We also had some big partnership announcements, a blog featuring Henry Ford (sort of) and tips on why…
In today’s Trucker Tools Market Index Report, you’ll find out which cities and regions will be hot or cold over the next five to seven day period. Our Market Index Report uses real-time load and transaction data from Trucker Tools’ broker software platforms, free carrier platform and driver app to predict where demand for trucks will highest in the coming…
“As truck drivers, we often don’t take our health seriously enough,” notes Kim Loescher, a company driver with Classic Carriers out of Ohio. “We’re on the road so much. We have to be aware of our health and we need to take it more seriously —and exercise and eating habits all play a role.” “As truck drivers, we often don’t…
Let’s face it — sometimes things don’t go as planned. Even your best laid plans can be ruined when something goes sideways. Perhaps your load is damaged in transport or your driver is involved in an accident. Maybe you’re the victim of a theft, a severe weather event or a mechanical failure that results in breakage. Losing a load or…
Today’s Trucker Tools Market Index Report gives you insight into which locations and markets will be hot or cold over the next five to seven day period. This Market Index Report is based on real-time load and transaction data pulled from Trucker Tools’ broker software platforms, free carrier platform and driver app. What makes our Market Index Report different from…
We recently had the pleasure of speaking to company driver Roni Bender, a mother of two and grandmom to one. After a career in customer service, Roni made the transition to trucking a few years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Roni is based in Nashville. She is an OTR driver with Schneider in the Southeast and is loving it.…
Chris Jolly has been around trucking his whole life. His father was a trucker for 35 years and after finishing high school, Chris moved away from his hometown and worked at a warehouse for several years. Eventually, Chris went to college and afterward, got into freight brokerage. For the last 10 years, Chris has held a variety of roles in…
Welcome to Trucker Tools’ Market Index Reports! This is the first edition of our new market index report that tells you which locations and markets will be hot or cold for truckers and carriers over the next five to seven days. All of us at Trucker Tools are excited about our new market index because of what it offers owner…
It takes time to get into markets where rates are high. By the time you get there, the rates in that region may have gone down. Trucker Tools’ new Market Report helps you get into hot markets faster and stay one step ahead of the competition. Our new market reports don’t tell you where rates and volumes are high right…
While he was in school studying to get his physical therapy degree, Mark Manera interned at a health clinic in Southern Missouri. During his internship, Mark saw many OTR truckers as patients who were struggling to exercise and eat healthy. The average life expectancy of a trucker is 16 years less than the rest of the population. Many of the…
It’s been quite a year, one that most of us could not have predicted. Earlier this year, Trucker Tools’ hosted webinars with a panel of seasoned analyst experts to discuss the state of the transportation industry and what to expect in the future. We recently brought back our panel of experts to talk about key takeaways from 2020 and what…
This series of blogs, Smart Capacity Broker Tips, provides practical guidance for freight brokers and logistics companies on using Trucker Tools’ Smart Capacity real-time carrier capacity and relationship management platform. Time to read: four minutes. When choosing the technology to use in your brokerage’s day-to-day operations, a solution’s ability to streamline manual tasks should be at the top of the…
Our team is always looking for new ways to help you out, whether you’re running a load or enjoying some well-deserved time off. Recently, we added a boat-load of new features to the Trucker Tools driver app to do just that: make your life easier. We’ve partnered with other companies in the trucking industry to bring you in-app options that…
Growing up, Kim Loescher’s father had his own construction company and Kim loved going to work with him, playing around with his trucks and moving his equipment. After a career in the medical field as an adult, Kim followed her dad into the trucking business. With help from her dad and studying on her own, Kim passed the CDL and…
Interest in and the use of digital freight matching has grown exponentially since the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020. Never before have we seen a concept take over to such a degree. In years previous, technology innovation and adoption has followed a predictable pattern in this industry: individual companies adopt the technology and, if it’s a results-producing technology, popularity…
Are you looking for tips on choosing the right TMS or do you want to know what to expect in Q4 and beyond? Do you need a strategy for expanding your customer base and meeting your shippers’ load tracking requirements? Look no further! Trucker Tools’ October 2020 blogs have it all. In October, we made announcements about new partnerships with…
There are so many different tools and technologies that you can choose to use as a freight broker. These technologies can help you reduce your operational costs, while saving your shipper and carrier partners time and money. Technology-based tools are designed to reduce manual tasks, which allows you to change how you use your staff. You can let technology handle…
Wouldn’t you like to be able to see a broker’s loads, scan and send documents, learn about discounts and receive updates from that broker all in one place? That’s what Trucker Tools’ new Broker Advantage offers you. With Broker Advantage, brokers and 3PLs have a home page within the Trucker Tools’ free driver app where you can quickly get the…
The story of how Jovanic Bontemps’ Long Island-based trucking company, FR8UP Logistics, got started isn’t your typical one. Jovanic is an IT professional who, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, went all in on trucking. After hearing from his trucker friends about the high demand for reefer and van capacity, Jovanic launched his trucking company in July…
“With great risk comes great reward,” founding father Thomas Jefferson is purported to have said. In freight brokerage and logistics, risk certainly is an inherent part of doing business. When shippers put their cargo in your hands, you become responsible for their freight and its safe passage to its final destination. Trucker Tools is excited to announce a new partnership…
If you’re new to using the Trucker Tools driver app or if you’re a long-time user of our free driver app, you may have questions about how our app-based load tracking and load matching work. You also may want to know more about the driver app’s terms of use, privacy policies and whether or not brokers and logistics companies can…
There’s a famous quote that has been consistently attributed to Henry Ford, founder of Ford Motor Company: “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.” While it’s doubtful that Ford actually ever wrote or uttered these words, the idea is a powerful one. We all get used to doing things a certain way and…
In case you missed out, Trucker Tools’ October 2020 blogs brought big announcements about new features and tools in Trucker Tools’ free app for truckers. The Trucker Tools driver app’s new features include a new overnight and long-term truck parking reservation tool that lets you find, reserve and pay for parking right in the app. We also recently added a…
With truck capacity at historic lows as we head into the peak shipping season, you have to use every tool at your disposal to keep carriers “sticky” and moving your loads. After all, you can’t move loads without trucks, and owner operators and carriers are in high demand. As spot rates across the country continue to rise, the technology that…
Trucker Tools’ software integrations and technical partnerships are powerful because they simplify how you run your business, increase your operational efficiency and reduce repetitive manual tasks for your staff. Our integration partnership with M2M In Motion gives you another option for tracking loads, whether you’re a trucking company, broker or 3PL. Trucker Tools’ partnership with M2M In Motion allows you…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Leading provider of web-native transportation management software adds Trucker Tools real-time load tracking to all TMS subscription tiers Builds on earlier adoption of Trucker Tools Smart Capacity for real-time visibility into available truckload capacity, predictive freight matching Leverages Trucker Tools industry-leading Mobile Driver App for real-time, GPS-based updates on active loads; integration will feed real-time event data…
Trucker Tools is always looking for ways to help you while on the road. We’re excited to share that with the TruckPark and SecureSpace* integration, you will be able to find and reserve parking right from the Trucker Tools app. See below for instructions on how to use this feature with the Trucker Tools app. Step 1 Click on the…
Trucker Tools recently had the pleasure of speaking with trucking couple Lisa and Lee Schmitt. The Schmitts are owner operators based out of Wisconsin who run heavy haul. Lee has been a trucker since the 1980s, so he’s experienced all the ups and downs of the industry over the last 25+ years. After their kids left home a few years…
This year has been a tough one for many small businesses, including freight brokers and 3PLs. If you’re a broker or 3PL that’s on the small size, you may be struggling to match the service and perks that larger 3PLs and mega brokers can offer shippers and carriers. You also may be unable to pivot your business to meet the…
For Nashville native and mother of two Roni Bender, trucking offered an opportunity to travel all over the country and make a good living at the same time. After a career working in customer service for one of the country’s largest mobile phone companies, Roni got her CDL at Roadmaster Drivers School in Middleton, Tenn., two years ago. Today, Roni…
Finding safe and secure overnight truck parking has been a major problem for the trucking industry for more than a decade. Truck parking is a problem that has become even more difficult in recent years, as some states have shut down rest areas to reduce their costs. According to a recent survey by the Federal Highway Administration, the states currently…
Needs and times change, which is why we survey users of the Trucker Tools driver app several times each year. We recently surveyed those of you who use our driver app and free carrier platform to find out how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting how you do business. Most of you who responded to our survey are owner operators and…
Trucker Tools recently hosted a webinar, As Freight Comes Roaring Back, Are Brokers and Their Technology Ready?, featuring Craig Fuller, founder and CEO of FreightWaves, and Trucker Tools’ own CEO and founder, Prasad Gollapalli. In the webinar, we discussed where the freight brokerage market is right now and what to expect for the remainder of 2020. As part of the…
While it can’t solve every problem under the sun, technology can help you run a lean and highly efficient business that minimizes redundancies and maximizes profits. This year, we’ve seen just how powerful technology can be in the logistics and freight brokerage industries. During COVID-19, companies with digital operations have been better able to weather fluctuating demand and uneven truck…
At Trucker Tools, we’re never done. We’re constantly looking for new ways to help you simplify your life on the road, whether it’s making it easy for you to find and reserve overnight parking or helping you find the cheapest fuel on your route. That’s why we’ve partnered with TVC Pro-Driver to bring a new feature to Trucker Tools’ free…
Choosing a transportation management system is one of the biggest technology decisions you will make for your brokerage or logistics company. Getting the right TMS for your operations can mean the difference between growing your business and profit margins or continuing to tread water or even falling behind your competitors. A quality TMS can help you reduce your cost per…
This year has been all about adjustments and change. As we transition from summer into fall/winter, consumer spending is rebounding and volumes generally are up. At the same time, transportation capacity has fallen to record new lows. With all of these factors in play, our September 2020 blogs are focused on the big picture and how adjusting your strategy can…
When you’re at the end of a long day on the road, you want the peace of mind of having a safe place to park your rig for the night. The reality, though, is that finding overnight parking continues to be major problem. According to a DOT survey conducted a few years ago, 90 percent of truck drivers have problems…
Matson Logistics Partners with Trucker Tools for Shipment Visibility and Automated Truckload Booking
Strategic engagement improves precision, timeliness of shipment in-transit updates; streamlines transactions with carriers through Book-It-Now®, an automated, one-click booking tool RESTON, VA – OCTOBER 15, 2020 – Trucker Tools announced today that Matson Logistics has selected Trucker Tools’ app-based visibility solution to improve tracking latency and accuracy for truckload shipments, and the company’s automated Book It Now® feature for one-click…
Earlier this year, Trucker Tools launched a new Visibility Compliance Champions program to recognize top achievers of real-time visibility. The goal of this program is to honor those freight brokers and logistics providers who provide the highest levels of visibility they can with Trucker Tools’ real-time visibility platform. In this blog, we’re recognizing all those who have met or surpassed…
Shippers have endless options when it comes to moving their products: truckload, LTL, expedited, intermodal, air, rail, brokered or direct. As a freight broker or logistics provider, there are steps you can take to stand out to shippers and differentiate yourself from your competition. One of the best places to start is with real-time visibility because it continues to be…
The benefits of achieving greater operational efficiency in your freight brokerage are numerous and significant. Boosting efficiency allows you to shift your staffing resources away from manual tasks to relationship-building activities with shippers and carriers, which helps you grow your business. Operating more efficiently reduces your cost per load and maximizes your profit margins. It also can boost the volume…
There’s certainly never a dull moment in the trucking industry. If you’re like most owner operators and trucking companies, you’re adjusting to the new normal of 2020 and riding the current wave of demand for truck capacity. That means you’re busier than ever. With that in mind, we’ve put together a summary of our September 2020 blogs to get you…
If you’re like most truckers, finding parking, particularly safe and secure overnight parking, is an ongoing problem. On average, truckers spend about an hour each day looking for parking, which adds up to thousands of dollars of lost revenue in a given year. The good news is that you have a new, convenient way to find and reserve parking in…
In a JOC survey last year, more than half of the shippers who responded said that freight visibility is the greatest challenge that technology can address. A recent Gartner Wants and Needs Survey also ranked visibility as the highest priority in the supply chain and in an IHS Markit survey, only 15 percent of the shippers surveyed reported being very…
FreightWaves reported last week that outbound tender rejection rates are at 25 percent, meaning one in four loads are being rejected. The current capacity crunch is just the beginning of what’s expected to be one of the most intense peak shipping seasons in recent history. In a recent panel discussion at the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals’ EDGE 2020…
As freight volumes continue to rise, you need a way to find loads quickly without wasting a lot of time and energy. If you want to make hay while the sun is shining, as the saying goes, know that you have other options beyond load boards. With Trucker Tools’ free driver app, you can quickly find loads with your favorite…
As Rick Mihelic of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency recently wrote in an article for the Commercial Carrier Journal, the only constant in the trucking industry is change. Rising consumer demand for home deliveries, emerging technologies, a fragmented capacity market and VC-funded start-ups are all shaping the evolution of trucking and logistics. Today, there’s a greater focus on…
Over the last 12 months, we’ve seen shippers place greater emphasis on using consistency and compliance metrics to measure success and monitor performance in the trucking sector. In addition to pick-up and delivery freight location data, many shippers are requiring load tracking data for stop points and in-transit, as well. Continuous load tracking updates and multiple load tracking data points…
If you want to reduce the carbon footprint of your trucking business, consider going digital with the help of Trucker Tools. Digitizing operations in your trucking business can be easy when you use free tools like Trucker Tools’ free driver app (or free carrier platform). With Trucker Tools’ driver app and free carrier platform, you have free access to digital…
We know you’re out there working hard on the road and don’t always have time to be at your computer or on your smart phone to read the latest Trucker Tools’ blogs. We’ve put together this summary of our August 2020 blogs to make sure that you don’t miss a thing. Our August blogs were packed with great tips and…
One of the best ways to keep your diet healthy and to save money when you’re on the road is to plan ahead when it comes to food and meals. Meal planning doesn’t have to be complicated or take you a lot of time. It can be as simple as stocking your truck with healthy snacks, freezing meals to bring…
In early 2020 when COVID-19 was first declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization, every industry had to adapt to a new way of doing business, including the logistics industry. In the months since then, it’s become clear that the logistics industry has fundamentally been altered by the COVID-19 pandemic. The volatility, fluctuating consumer demand and unpredictability that…
Trucker Tools’ digital freight matching and Book-It-Now® let you ditch load boards and the back-and-forth phone calls and emails with brokers, leaving you more time for making driving and making money. With Trucker Tools’ Book-It-Now® and digital freight matching, you have the power to find and book loads with your favorite brokers on your schedule, at times that are convenient…
Digital load matching uses technology to pair broker/shipper loads with available truck capacity. Digital load matching is gaining popularity with brokers, 3PLs, carriers and truckers alike because it’s much more effective and efficient than using load boards. When digital load matching software first made an appearance in the industry, it was only affordable to and used by mega brokers and…
To say it’s been a year of ups and downs would be an understatement! It’s been an especially challenging year for truckers, without a doubt. That’s why it’s so important to celebrate the hard work that you do each and every day. You bring food and medicines to all of us all around the country, keep our stores stocked with…
With truckload rates and consumer demand on the rise heading into autumn, finding quality truck capacity has become more challenging. If the increase in freight volume has you musing, “I need a load board – which one should I use?” you may be posing the wrong question. While load boards were the best way to find truck capacity several years…
It’s hard to believe, but another August is officially in the books! As summer turns into autumn, volume is picking up and many in the industry are trying to make up for time and revenue lost earlier in the year due to the initial outbreak of COVID-19. The pandemic certainly has impacted how freight brokers and logistics companies like yours…
Starting your own business is an exciting endeavor, filled with big decisions about how to build the foundation of your business. When it comes to starting your own freight brokerage, there’s certainly no handbook to follow or blueprint to reference, but there are key resources that you can draw upon for training, real-world advice and guidance from industry veterans. Trucker…
All of us here at Trucker Tools believe that any technology-based tool worth its salt has to be intuitive, easy to use and able to deliver on its promise of greater efficiency. We choose to partner with companies and vendors who hold these same values and strive to help logistics companies like yours achieve greater success. That is certainly true…
It’s official: the capacity crunch is here. After a dismal spring and volatile summer (thanks, pandemic), volumes are rebounding, which means capacity is tightening. Trucker Tools’ recently co-hosted a webinar with FreightWaves to discuss the best practices and strategies for brokers and 3PLs to use in a tightening market where trucks are harder to find. Special guest Tom Curee brought…
The future of freight brokerage is all about using technology to your advantage to reduce inefficiencies, while dedicating your human resources to shipper service. It makes sense. Why assign your staff members repetitive manual tasks that can be automated with technology? It makes better business sense to concentrate your human resources on relationship-building activities with shippers and carriers instead. Process…
With produce season in full swing, what better time than now to talk about hauling refrigerated freight! Trucker Tools recently chatted with owner operator Travis Griffin, an Air Force veteran and father of two who is based in Illinois and hauls reefer throughout the Midwest. During our conversation, Travis offered some great advice for truckers who are new to hauling…
Securing truck capacity can be one of the most time-consuming activities in your brokerage operations. If your staff members are posting to load boards, responding to messages and phone calls from carriers, and/or sending emails to carriers every day to find truck capacity, know that there is a better way. Trucker Tools’ Book-It-Now® is a load-booking automation tool that is…
You’ve recently completed your training and gotten your CDL. Way to go! There are lots of possibilities and potential for growth in your career. Lucky for you, we’ve interviewed dozens of seasoned and newbie owner operators over the last year who’ve offered their advice on how to start a trucking business and have a long-lasting, successful career as an owner…
In today’s unpredictable market, you have to make smart strategic decisions that position your freight brokerage business to be successful today and in the future, no matter what that future might look like. Though none of us can predict what the next year will bring, a great place to start is with maximizing your brokerage’s operational efficiency, automating manual tasks…
Trucker Tools is thrilled to introduce brokers and 3PLs to a new avenue for strengthening relationships with carriers with our new Broker Advantage portal. The purpose of Trucker Tools’ Brokerage Advantage portal is to create brand recognition for your brokerage/3PL with carriers through Trucker Tools’ free mobile app and carrier platform. Trucker Tools’ Broker Advantage is a white label interface…
It’s hard to believe it, but another July has come and gone! All of us at Trucker Tools hope the month was a good one for you and your brokerage and that you managed to squeeze in a little vacation time with your loved ones, as well. July was a busy month for us at Trucker Tools. Our July blogs…
Trucker Tools recently had the opportunity to speak with Grace Maher, OTR Capital’s Vice President and Director of Operations, about the company’s new integration partnership with Trucker Tools. In our conversation with Ms. Maher, we learned more about OTR Capital’s beginnings, the company’s focus on carrier service and success, and why Trucker Tools is the right partner for the organization.…
In June, Trucker Tools hosted a webinar panel discussion on Strategies for Brokers on Surviving the Current Market and Thriving in Recovery with Bill Cassidy of JOC, John Schulz of Logistics Management Magazine and Avery Vise of FTR Transportation Intelligence. The discussion was moderated by Trucker Tools’ CEO and founder, Prasad Gollapalli and centered on the challenges brokers were facing…
With regions across the country breaking high temperature records this summer, running produce has never been more challenging. We recently talked to owner operator and veteran reefer driver Tamara Spivey about best practices for hauling refrigerated cargo and how to ensure that the load arrives in good condition. Tamara offered us these tips for hauling produce during this hot summer…
As the trucking market heats up as we head into fall, you’re no doubt looking to capitalize on the demand for trucks and make up for lost time. If your first thought is, “I need a load board — what should I use?” we want to stop you there. The truth is that load boards aren’t the best way for…
Secures registered trademark for truckload industry’s first one-click, automated load booking and confirmation service; enhances trucker engagement with multiple brokers. Smartphone-based app speeds transactions, streamlines workflow for owner-operators, small fleets; reduces time and cost for brokers to cover loads RESTON, VA – AUGUST 24, 2020 – Trucker Tools today announced that it has secured a registered trademark for “Book-It-Now®” as…
After a stint in the United States Air Force in vehicle operations, Milwaukee native Travis Griffin got his CDL and went over-the-road, working for several big names in the trucking industry over the course of his career. Today, Travis is an owner operator who drives his customized Freightliner on a dedicated account in the Midwest for Hirschbach Motor Lines, mainly…
As we head into the end of the summer and get ready for back-to-school and the holidays, things are looking up in the world of trucking. Rates generally are rising and so is demand and that’s great news after a difficult start to 2020. If you’re looking to make the most of this uptick in demand and capitalize on the…
It’s official: the truck capacity crunch is here. Over the last several weeks, we’ve seen rates and demand rise, with outbound tender rejection rates reaching an annual high last week. As a freight broker or logistics provider, a tightening capacity market means you have to move quickly to find and secure the best available truck capacity for your shippers. It…
If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that brokers who leverage the latest technology to their advantage are better able to adapt to uneven demand and market volatility. One of the greatest advantages that technology can offer your brokerage is greater operational efficiency. When your brokerage runs as efficiently as possible, your staff members can focus on shipper…
We know you want to save time and maximize your revenue, but that you’re also short on time. That’s why we’ll make this quick. Trucker Tools’ Book-It-Now® is all about saving you time and keeping those wheels moving. Check out the top three reasons why you should be using Trucker Tools’ Book-It-Now®. 1. Book-It-Now® Saves Time Spending hours on load…
All of us at Trucker Tools hope you’re enjoying your summer and that you’re getting in a least a little R&R with friends and loved ones during this busy season. In case you missed it, we had some fantastic blogs in July featuring interviews with real truckers from all over the country. From Rob Moore’s heavy haul tips and Hazmat…
At Trucker Tools, we’re all about giving you options that make your life easier. That’s why we’re happy to offer ELD integration to trucking companies that prefer to use ELDs for load tracking purposes. Enabling ELD tracking with Trucker Tools is a quick and easy process for you and your staff, but the benefits are big. Tracking a load digitally…
Leading third-party logistics provider bolsters digital freight management resources, gains real-time access to available truckload capacity, improves carrier engagement, shipper responsiveness. RESTON, VA and KNOXVILLE, TN – AUGUST 13, 2020 – Trucker Tools today announced that Axle Logistics is incorporating more of the company’s digital freight management tools, adding Smart Capacity® predictive freight-matching and carrier relationship management to its current…
For Sara Buggs, who grew up in rural Tennessee, getting a CDL and going OTR had always been a lifelong dream. Sara’s great uncle was a trucker and when she was a young child, he would come visit her when he was in town and let her sit in his truck. She loved sitting in her uncle’s rig back then…
Trucker Tools recently got the chance to talk with Aaron Dunn, co-host of PDQ America’s Trucking For Millennials podcast. We chatted with Aaron about how Millennial truckers are different from other generations of truckers and what Millennial truckers are doing to adapt to changes in the market. Aaron also shared what it’s like to be preparing for the Certified Transportation…
Trucker Tools had recently attended the FreightWaves virtual 3PL Summit. During the summit, we were able to connect with many existing clients and answer any questions from prospects around our products. We are always happy to showcase all the benefits and business results our clients see when working with us. Outside of meeting us in the virtual booth, we hosted…
Change is hard. We all get used to doing something a certain way and don’t want to take the time to consider other options. But sometimes, you need to take a look around and see if there’s technology out there that can really take your business to the next level and save time and money— and that time is now.…
In trucking, it’s no secret that time is our most valuable resource. If you shave a few minutes off the time it takes you to do something, that time eventually adds up and you’ve got more drive time. More drive time means more time for making money. That’s why Kingsgate Logistics has teamed up with Trucker Tools. The Trucker Tools…
For Candor Expedite, a full-service logistics provider specializing in expedited services, real-time visibility is essential. Offering hotshot ground services, time sensitive truckload and white glove special services, as well as reefer, truckload and LTL to shippers, Candor Expedite is committed to a 99 percent on-time delivery rate. However, the company struggled over the last two years to get two different…
If you’re a veteran of the transportation industry, you know that the freight market ebbs and flows. Rates and the availability of trucks fluctuate throughout the year based on demand. If you’ve been working in this business for any length of time, you also know that when demand goes up, it takes time for truck capacity to match demand. During…
Alliance brings TVC Pro-Driver to the multi-functional Trucker Tools Mobile Driver App, providing access to trucker-focused legal services, fuel discounts, roadside assistance and more. RESTON, VA and OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – AUGUST 4, 2020 – Trucker Tools today announced a new partnership with TVC Pro-Driver that will provide access to legal representation and other services for independent truckers directly through…
The demand for continuous, real-time freight visibility certainly hasn’t diminished in 2020. If anything, the need for and value of load tracking has increased as every segment of the supply chain looks for a competitive advantage while trying to weather recent market disruptions. If you oversee operations in your brokerage, finding the freight visibility tool that meets your brokerage’s specific…
As a trucker, your goal is to keep your truck fully loaded all the time. You never want your truck to be idle. You want to move more loads and do it quickly. But if you’re an owner operator or a fleet owner using load boards to find loads, you’re missing out on an opportunity to increase your revenue and…
Owner operator and bulk hazmat trucker Gabrielle Simmons recently took time out from trucking to chat with us about what her first two years as an owner operator have been like. Gabrielle spoke to us about the challenges she and other truckers are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic and how she’d wanted to become a trucker since she was 18…
For some truckers, being a company driver is just one stop on their trucking journey, for others, it’s a life-long career. Many owner operators start out as company drivers and then, for one reason or another, opt to go out on their own. We recently spoke with Tamara Spivey about her career in trucking in how and why she transitioned…
Despite recent advances in AI and machine learning-driven technology, operational inefficiencies still abound in the supply chain. These inefficiencies collectively cost us trillions of dollars each year. If you’re wondering what are the inefficiencies that still exist in the supply chain, there are many. Poor supply chain visibility, an over-dependence on manual processes and the inability to quickly draw meaningful…
We love talking to truckers and learning about tricks and tips for making life on the road easier. In our recent conversation with owner operator Rob Moore, we learned just how much money you can save as a trucker when you do simple repairs to your truck yourself. Rob also shared why he got into trucking in the first place…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Trucker Tools Adds Ryder Freight Brokerage to its Digital Carrier Engagement Platform Brokerage division integrates industry-leading Trucker Tools Book It Now® to automate load booking and streamline workflow for owner-operators and small fleets. Launches real-time visibility into available capacity and predictive freight-matching; enhances load-match speed and accuracy, broker productivity and carrier satisfaction; expands capacity choices at competitive…
Most of us love the Where’s Waldo? books, but let’s face it: Where’s Waldo? is not a great approach for your logistics business. If you’re having the Where’s Waldo? experience when it comes to load tracking or finding truck capacity, know that there’s a better way. Tracking loads and finding trucks doesn’t have to feel like looking for a needle…
It’s no secret that freight visibility is a top priority for shippers. American Shipper’s comprehensive Benchmark Visibility Study found that shippers rely on visibility primarily to monitor their shipments, but also for business intelligence and decision-making purposes. As freight visibility has become increasingly important to shippers, it’s become a critical core service offering for both freight brokers and logistics providers.…
Happy Summer! It’s July, which means that we’re more than halfway through 2020, which is hard to believe. It’s been a roller coaster of a few months and we don’t blame you if you missed out on a few Trucker Tools blogs last month. This June Link Roundup gives you quick nuggets of wisdom and news from our favorite blogs…
Trucker Tools is pleased to announce that we’re partnering with Omnitracs to bring you a platform integration that simplifies how you track loads. The integration between Trucker Tool’s real-time visibility platform and Omnitracs ELDs allows you to view truck locations in real-time, without ever needing to pick up the phone or open a new software program. With this integration, location…
Say hello to Sara Buggs, a first-year trucker based out of Knoxville, Tenn., who achieved her life-long dream of becoming a trucker in December of 2019. Sara got her start in trucking at 41 as a Hazmat driver with Skyline Transportation and today drives dry van. She absolutely loves her new career in trucking and is a big fan of…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Expanded collaboration integrates advanced capacity management and automated booking tools into TMS operating platform; significantly reduces cost to cover loads, improves driver productivity, engagement and support. Builds on earlier adoption of Trucker Tools solution for automated, app-based GPS load tracking. RESTON, VA and PITTSBURGH, PA – JULY 15, 2020 – Trucker Tools announced today that ARL Logistics,…
As an owner operator, keeping your operating expenses low lets you keep more of your hard-earned money in your bank account — and that’s always a win. Trucker Tools recently spent some time getting to know owner operator and Redneckanize co-founder Rob Moore, who also happens to be a former mechanic. In our conversation with Rob, he shared how doing…
It’s July, which means that summer is in full-swing. That also means that you may not be at your desk or computer as much as you usually are and you may have missed out on some of our June blogs. Never fear, the June Monthly Link Roundup is here! Our June blogs run the gamut, from exciting announcements about our…
At Trucker Tools, we understand just how important freight visibility is to your brokerage business. When you have real time, digital visibility of the freight you broker, you can provide a better experience and greater value to your shippers. Digital, real-time freight visibility also increases the efficiency of your own operations, which is good news for your bottom line. Real-time…
Company integrates additional time-saving digital freight management tools into flagship StrategyLive TMS platform. Provides one-click automated load booking and confirmation; speeds transactions, streamlines workflow for owner-operators, small fleets; reduces time, cost for brokers to cover loads Complements previous integrations of Trucker Tools Smart Capacity for predictive freight-matching and visibility solution for automated, app-based GPS load tracking Leverages Trucker Tools mobile…
Many shippers now require 80 to 90 percent visibility compliance on their loads, and for good reason. Continuous, real-time visibility helps shippers provide exceptional customer service to their customers and use their resources as efficiently as possible to maximize revenue. Despite the fact that visibility is a top priority for shippers, the trucking industry’s average visibility compliance rate continues to…
Picture this: you spend less time finding capacity, run your business more efficiently, grow your profits, help your carriers, boost volume and reduce your cost per load. That’s the value proposition of Book It Now®, Trucker Tools’ powerful load-booking automation tool. Book It Now® is available to brokers who use Trucker Tools’ digital freight matching platform and for carriers who…
Trucker Tools recently spent some time getting to know Gabrielle Simmons, a bulk hazmat owner operator based out of Colorado. We spoke to Gabrielle to learn more about what her first two years as a trucker have been like and how she got involved with the SHE Trucking Sisterhood, an online community of over 8,000 professional women truck drivers. During…
Based in Chandler, Ariz., owner operator Rob Moore hauls oversized and flatbed freight as RM Transport of Chandler. Rob is a founding member of Redneckanize, a truckers group that shares do it yourself truck repair tips and hosts trucker events at the Mid-American Trucking Show. Trucker Tools recently spoke to Rob about how he got started in trucking and his…
If you’re a broker or 3PL using Trucker Tools’ real-time visibility platform, you may encounter a small number of carriers who are unable to use the real-time visibility tool included in our free driver app. Some larger carriers, in particular, may have company policies in place that don’t allow brokers/3PLs to track loads via drivers’ phones. If this is the…
For Immediate Release Leading 3PL leverages Trucker Tools’ popular mobile driver app and platform to improve load tracking frequency, data quality and timeliness; automate and streamline processes for owner-operators, small-fleet truckload community RESTON, VA and TAMPA, FL – June 25, 2020 – Trucker Tools announced today that BlueGrace Logistics has integrated Trucker Tools into its BlueShip® TMS to improve and…
Trucker Tools recently hosted a panel discussion on “Surviving COVID-19: What we’ve learned, what brokers and carriers should plan for in the coming months and beyond.” Trucker Tools’ CEO and founder Prasad Gollapalli was joined on the panel by Bill Cassidy, JOC’s senior editor; John Schulz, contributing editor for Logistics Management Magazine; and Avery Vise, VP of trucking at FTR…
Tamara Spivey is a BCO owner operator for Landstar based out of Atlanta, Ga., and a member of the SHE Trucking community. Trucker Tools recently spoke with Tamara to learn more about how and why she got into trucking and about her 20-year career in the industry. We spoke to Tamara about her mentorship of new drivers and her journey…
Too busy to read all of our blogs? No problem, we got you covered with our monthly link roundup. In May, our blogs were all about giving you practical tips for increasing your revenue, maximizing efficiency and taking advantage of the 17+ free tools included in our free driver app. From the new reserved parking options in our driver app…
Read Time: 5 minutes This step by step guide will show you how to search and book loads with Trucker Tools’ new app. Step 1 There are 2 ways to search for loads in the Trucker Tools app. The first, is by clicking on the loads icon on the opening screen. Step 2 You can also search for loads by…
Making just one mistake on a single load, such as paying the wrong carrier, can be detrimental to your brokerage business. Automating and digitizing brokerage activities such as carrier payment processing and load tracking helps you minimize human error and person-to-person contact, which is especially important during the current pandemic. Automation also notably reduces the time (and cost) associated with…
While some brokers have been able to pivot their operations to meet specific consumer demands during the COVID-19 pandemic, most brokers are struggling to adapt to the new market conditions. If you’re still using manual tasks in your everyday operations, the current pandemic should serve as a warning bell. Avoiding the use of technology in your brokerage, no matter what…
We’re approaching the three-month mark of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States and as many states are beginning to relax their quarantine restrictions, freight volumes and rates are starting to pick back up. One lesson learned from the current downturn is that technology can be a major factor in helping brokers adjust and adapt to major market disruptions. Brokers…
One thing we hear from truckers again and again is that trucking is the family business or that a family member inspired them to get into trucking. Trucker Tools recently spoke with Tiffini Springer and Ed Prince, two of the founding members of Redneckanize, to learn more about how the organization was founded and the role that it plays in…
Trucker Tools recently interviewed owner operator Gerald Johnson, known as Trucker G on social media, to learn more about his 28-year career in the trucking industry. Drawing on his previous experience as an owner operator, company diver and trainer, Trucker G offered his perspective on how the industry has changed over the years and where he sees it headed in…
Trucker Tools’ May blogs were loaded with information on our new partnerships, enhanced driver app capabilities, tips for reducing costs in your operations, and more. Just in case you were too busy and didn’t catch all of our May broker blogs, we’ve put together a summary to ensure that you don’t miss out on a thing. We’ve got you covered,…
Trucker Tools recently surveyed logistics providers who move 1,000 loads or less to learn more about their specific needs and operations. Of those that responded to our survey, 71 percent told us that getting new shipper contracts is a top concern. If you’re a broker or 3PL of this size, you probably feel like you’re stuck between a rock and…
For shippers, real-time freight visibility serves more than one purpose. Knowing where a load is located allows the shipper to keep its customer updated on when the shipment will arrive and to drive greater customer satisfaction. Real-time visibility also drives shippers’ resource management and decision-making. Shippers use real-time visibility data to analyze and evaluate the efficiency of their operations, as…
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, trade shows all over the world have been postponed, canceled or rescheduled. Some of the industry’s biggest trade shows, the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) and the Great American Trucking Show (GATS), have been canceled. If you’re a broker who relies on trade shows to network, cultivate new business and evaluate new technology, you may be…
In the current market where freight volumes are down, it’s more important than ever for you to be able to make your business as efficient as possible so that you can maximize your profits and increase volume. If you’re like many owner operators and trucking companies, however, you may be relying on load boards, a time-consuming and outdated technology, to…
If you’re not running your brokerage as efficiently as possible, you’re missing out on opportunities to increase your revenue. One manual task that takes considerable time and attention is reading and responding to emails from carriers. Front estimates that logistics businesses are losing valuable time and revenue due to manual email processes, as much as two hours per employee each…
Logistics division adopts Truckers Tools’ driver-focused platform to streamline interactions, improve the carrier experience, increase “stickiness” and provide quality loads faster for small truckload fleets RESTON, VA and OMAHA, NE – June 4, 2020 – Trucker Tools , which provides a suite of cloud-based truckload freight management and carrier engagement tools for freight brokers and small-fleet operators, announced today that…
Trucker Tools is pleased to announce that we’re partnering with Infinity Software Solutions to bring you a platform integration that automates time-consuming brokerage activities and offers you greater operational efficiency. The integration between Trucker Tools’ real-time visibility platform and ISS’ BrokerPro transportation management solution lets you manage loads, issue rate quotes, access QuickBooks, onboard carriers and track active loads in…
The freight brokerage market is as competitive as ever and we know that you’re always in search of ways to improve your bottom line and differentiate yourself from your competitors. If you’re looking to technology for help in achieving these goals, you’re not alone. According to a recent JOC survey, 67 percent of logistics professionals are planning to invest in…
We just rolled out an update to our free driver app based on feedback we received from truckers just like you. In the newest version of the Trucker Tools driver app, you’ll see that we’ve made it easier for you to find reload opportunities and customize your load searches. Also included in Trucker Tools’ driver app are 17+ other tools…
Company strengthens operating platform, enhances efficiency, reduces costs. Increases timeliness, quality of shipment in-transit data with real-time, accurate app-based GPS load tracking. Leverages industry-leading Trucker Tools mobile driver app to improve carrier engagement, communication, collaboration, reduce annoying manual ‘check calls’. RESTON, VA and beaver, PA – MAY 28, 2020 – Trucker Tools LLC announced today that Beemac Logistics has deployed…
Trucker Tools had the good fortune recently to interview Frank and Stephanie Rebelo, also known as The Trucking Couple. In our conversation with The Trucking Couple, we learned how and why the husband and wife team became team drivers for FedEx’s Custom Critical division and what it’s like to live and work together on a truck. In our conversation with…
The pandemic has been especially tough for owner operators and smaller carriers. Overdrive is reporting that a third of small fleets have completely shut down due to the pandemic. Yet small trucking companies and owner operators are integral to the success of the transportation industry. In recent years, they’re the ones who’ve moved as much as 80 percent of the…
Shippers put their freight and reputations in your hands anytime that you broker a load for them. If for some reason the load arrives late or something unforeseen happens, shippers need to know as soon as possible in order to do their best to keep their own customers happy. That’s ultimately why freight visibility matters so much to shippers: it…
Engagement enables OTR Capital’s carriers to access Trucker Tools predictive freight-matching and automated “Book-it-Now” features. RESTON, VA and ROSWELL, GA – MAY 19, 2020 – Trucker Tools announces a new partnership with OTR Capital that will include a platform integration where Trucker Tools’ freight-matching and automated Book It Now features will be embedded into OTR Capital’s customer portal. The agreement…
The American Transportation Research Institute, the trucking industry’s not-for-profit research center, recently surveyed more than 2,000 motor carriers and commercial drivers and found that truck parking is one of the industry’s top five most urgent needs. If you’re a trucker or motor carrier, this isn’t news to you. Lack of safe and secure truck parking is a continual challenge for…
A diverse customer base makes your brokerage business less dependent on any one customer, industry or market and ultimately can help insulate your brokerage from unforeseen disruptions to the supply chain. When rates are low, adding more shippers to your customer base also allows you to increase freight volume to maintain profit margins. In a recent Trucker Tools survey, more…
Staying competitive and profitable is always a challenge, especially if you’re an owner operator or smaller trucking company. You have to be able to adapt to changing needs in the market, provide great service to your customers and run a lean operation with as few expenses as possible. Trucker Tools recently spoke with industry vet and host of The Driver…
Increasing the operational efficiency of your brokerage helps you compete with larger companies who may have more resources at their disposal and bigger budgets. Boosting operational efficiency also is one of the most effective ways to generate more revenue for your freight brokerage. That’s why we’re excited to announce a new partnership with 3PL Systems, an innovative software solutions provider…
Launched in 2013 by founder and CEO Prasad Gollapalli, Trucker Tools connects owner-operators and trucking companies with freight brokers and logistics providers. Trucker Tools’ software solutions include Smart Capacity, a digital platform for brokers, and the Trucker Tools driver app, a free all-in-one smartphone driver app that simplifies life on the road for truckers. 17+ Tools and Features That Keep…
Company’s customers now can use Smart Capacity’s digital tools and services for predictive freight-matching, access to real-time available truck capacity, automated booking, and timelier load tracking. RESTON, VA and SIGNAL HILL, CA — May 11, 2020 – Trucker Tools announced today that 3PL Systems Inc., a leading provider of transportation planning and management software for freight brokers and logistics providers,…
Just in case you missed some of Trucker Tools’ blogs during the month of April, we’ve rounded up the best of the bunch here for you. In this roundup, learn all about the brand new version of Trucker Tools’ free driver app and two new partnerships that allow you to search for, reserve and pay for overnight parking right in…
A lot happened this April, so to get you back to speed on what you may have missed, here’s our April 2020 Monthly Blog Roundup! In this roundup, find out how Trucker Tools can unlock real-time visibility for your brokerage and learn what you should look for when choosing freight capacity tools for your brokerage. Read about the new version…
We recently released a new version of the Trucker Tools driver app that includes 17+ time-saving, easy-to-use features redesigned to simplify life on the road for the 900,000+ truckers who use our app. Trucker Tools’ driver app provides truckers with instant access to real-time information on open loads, truck stops, rest areas, parking, fuel prices, optimal routes, weigh scales and…
The Best Things in Life Are Free — Including the 17+ Tools and Features in Trucker Tools’ Driver App
Trucker Tools’ newly redesigned driver app is free for truckers, proving that not everything needs to cost a lot of money to have value. Offering a powerful, all-in-one app to truckers isn’t a gimmick or a limited time offer. We’ve made our comprehensive driver app free because we understand that running a successful trucking business is all about keeping expenses…
Before the Coronavirus outbreak, FreightWaves was reporting that 12 to 20 percent of the miles driven by truckers weren’t earning revenue. Since that FreightWaves article was published, the number of empty, deadhead miles has no doubt gone up even more as volumes have been impacted by COVID-19. With outbound tender volumes down by 15 percent or more and rates decreasing,…
Read time: 3 minutes Here’s a detailed step by step guide on how to use load tracking and document scanning in Trucker Tools’ new driver app. Step 1 To access Load Tracking, go to the menu by clicking the menu icon with the three lines in the top left corner of your screen. Step 2 Click on “Tracking”. Step 3…
We recently released a brand new version of the Trucker Tools free driver app with a fresh redesign that is all about making life easier for truckers. This updated version of our app has all of the 17+ tools and features that drivers have come to love, but with a redesigned and reorganized interface that focuses on ease of use…
Read Time: 5 minutes This how to guide will show you how to use the filter feature in the Trucker Tools app. Our filter is available throughout some of the most popular tools on the app, such as finding/booking loads, truck stop guide, weigh scales, rest areas, Walmart locations and others. In this blog, you will learn how to navigate…
We recently joined Jacinda Duran, known on social media as Jacinda Lady Truck’n, for a conversation about growing up in a trucking family, how she got into long-haul trucking and why she loves what she does. During our discussion, Jacinda offered insight into what it’s like to be an enclosed car hauler for Plycar Automotive Logistics. She shared with us…
Trucker Tools is thrilled to announce a new partnership with OTR Capital, a well-respected transportation services company based in Roswell, Ga. Like Trucker Tools, OTR Capital is committed to providing you with the support you need to succeed and to weather the ups and downs of the freight market. The integration between Trucker Tools and OTR Capital provides you with…
Trucker Tools to integrate SecurSpace network into its Smart Capacity platform and mobile driver app, adds nearly 1,000 new locations for overnight and extended commercial truck parking RESTON, VA and CHARLOTTE, NC – APRIL 28, 2020 – Trucker Tools , which provides real-time shipment visibility, trip planning, freight-matching and automated booking tools for freight brokers and small-fleet truckload carriers, announced…
As a trucker, we know you’re feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic firsthand. With many businesses closed, there’s less freight on the road and you may be having a hard time keeping your truck(s) moving. If you’re a trucker who is out on the road hauling essential freight, you may be having problems finding hand sanitizer, food and other…
In today’s hyper-competitive freight brokerage market, you have to be able to deliver real-time visibility to shippers if you want to stay relevant. Real-time visibility keeps shippers agile and competitive, which is why it’s become increasingly common for shippers to expect real-time visibility from you and your brokerage. But if you’re like most brokers, you may be providing visibility to…
It’s a tough time. We’re all being impacted by the Coronavirus in one way or another. With that being said, as a trucker, you’re facing challenges that many folks aren’t, which is why Trucker Tools recently surveyed you and your fellow truckers about how COVID-19 is affecting you and your business. We think it’s important to stay in touch with…
During this stressful time, it’s important to reduce face-to-face contact and access real-time information quickly when you’re out on the road. If you’re like most truckers, you may be struggling to find open rest areas, food and supplies along your route due to the COVID-19 pandemic. You also may be having trouble finding good loads with your favorite brokers or…
Though it certainly is a difficult time for all of us, the challenges that truckers currently face due to the COVID-19 pandemic are substantial. Truckers are on the front lines, literally keeping food, medicine and supplies moving across the country, ensuring that families, hospitals and grocery stores have what they need, all while risking possible exposure to the virus. Trucker…
Read Time: 2 minutes This is a step by step guide on how to use the weigh scale feature in Trucker Tools new driver app. Step 1 To access the weigh scales feature, click on the weigh scales icon on the explore tab of the opening screen. This will show you all the weigh scales near your current location. Step…
Read time: 5 minutes Here is a step by step guide on how to use the Route & Fuel Optimizer feature in Trucker Tools’ new driver app. Step 1 To access the Route and Fuel Optimizer feature, go to the menu by clicking the menu icon with the three lines in the top left corner of your screen. Step 2…
Read time: 2 minutes Here is a step by step guide on how to use the Truck Stop Guide feature in Trucker Tools’ new driver app. Step 1 Begin by opening the Trucker Tools driver app and tapping on the Truck Stop Guide icon. You will see the truck stops nearby your current location, sorted by distance from closest to…
Read time: 4 minutes This is a step by step guide on how to find and book loads with the Book It Now® tool in the new Trucker Tools driver app. Step 1 To view Book-It-Now® loads, click on the Loads icon from the explore tab on the opening screen. You may be prompted to enter in your phone number…
Last week, we rolled out the new version of our free Trucker Tools driver app to close to 900,000 truckers across the country. This latest release of the Trucker Tools driver app focuses on improving the user experience for truckers, as well as ease of use. Our driver app has all of the same features and tools that truckers love…
Trucker Tools becomes first digital carrier management platform to launch “in app” access for TruckPark’s extensive network of overnight commercial truck parking resources RESTON, VA and CHICAGO, IL – APRIL 16, 2020 – Trucker Tools , which provides a suite of cloud-based truckload freight management and carrier engagement tools for freight brokers and small-fleet operators, announced it has entered into…
With so much going on, you may have missed out on some of our March blogs. No worries. We’ve created a roundup of our best blogs from the month of March to get you caught up. In this roundup, you’ll learn more about Trucker Tools’ new COVID-19 resource tool, available in the Trucker Tools driver app. We provide you with…
Truckers like you are keeping food, medicines, equipment and other vital supplies flowing across the United States throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As a trucker, having easy-to-use tools at your fingertips is more important now than it ever has been. The quicker you can access information on available loads, parking, weigh stations, fuel prices and truck stops, the quicker you can…
There are a dizzying number of load boards, digital freight marketplaces and truck capacity options available to you as a freight broker or logistics provider. When deciding which freight capacity tools to use in your business, it’s a good idea to target solutions that reduce the time and resources that you devote to finding and finalizing truck capacity. Greater operational…
And with that, another March is in the books. In case you missed some of our blogs during the busy month of March, we’ve put together this roundup of our top blogs of the month, including how to deal with disruptions to the supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, we’ve written several blogs that deal with COVID-19, its…
Trucker Tools recently spent some time getting to know Gerald Johnson, known as Trucker G on Facebook and YouTube. Trucker G is a contracted owner-operator based out of Springfield, Mo., who is joined on the road by his wife, Mrs. G. In our recent conversation with Trucker G, he told us about his lifelong career as a trucker and why…
In case you missed it, our blogs in February were all about providing you with tips on how to run your trucking business better, increase drive time, find the best rates and reduce your workload. From preparing for spring snow to using the latest technology to automate load searches and load bookings, our February blogs are all about helping you…
Host of The Driver’s Side, a video series for and about truckers, Wayne Campbell has been working in the trucking industry for several decades. Trucker Tools recently spoke with Wayne about the different roles and careers he’s had in the industry over the years, including his stint as an oilfield driver. As an oilfield trucker, Wayne hauled fracking sand for…
As many other industries suspend business and halt service in compliance with state and federal mandates that aim to curb the spread of COVID-19, the transportation industry’s role in ensuring food and supplies are transported to where they are needed has become more important than ever. One of the challenges you may be facing right now as a freight broker…
Gerald Johnson, known on social media as Trucker G, has been in the trucking industry for the last 28 years. He’s been a company driver, trainer and currently is a contract owner-operator. Trucker G has helped 100s of drivers get their CDLs and today mentors new drivers. He travels with his wife, Mrs. G, and two dogs on the road…
Owner-operators Tiffini Springer and Ed Prince are two of the founders of Redneckanize, a non-profit that provides a gathering place for truckers at the Mid-America Trucking Show. For the last eight years, Redneckanize has set up shop in the Papa John’s parking lot at MATS, providing truckers with good company, hot meals, and entertainment, no matter what the weather. In…
Whether you’re a freight broker, logistics provider, carrier or owner-operator, it’s crucial to use tools that automate your daily activities, speed up your manual processes and reduce person-to-person interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doing so keeps your business operational and profitable, reduces overhead and protects you, your colleagues and employees from potential exposure to the virus. Maintaining your productivity also…
Known on social media as The Trucking Couple, Frank and Stephanie Rebelo haul freight for FedEx’s Custom Critical division, which provides same-day and overnight delivery of expedited freight to wholesalers, hospitals and retailers. Trucker Tools recently spoke with Frank to learn more about the couple got into hauling expedited freight and what it’s like working with a big company like…
Now more than ever, automating activities is crucial to ensuring that your brokerage remains efficient and functional. Innovative tools like Trucker Tools’ Book-It-Now reduce the time that you spend on finding and booking truck capacity. Book-It-Now for brokers eliminates the back and forth telephone calls you usually make to carriers about available trucks, rates and to finalize appointments. At the…
Company waives overage fees for users of nationwide digital freight tracking service, provides unlimited use of real-time shipment visibility platform for 60 days. Adds new “COVID-19” section to mobile driver app, launches clearinghouse detailing key information, support resources, operational tips to help truckers manage during crisis. RESTON, VA – MARCH 27, 2020 – Trucker Tools, which provides real-time shipment visibility,…
It’s more important than ever for you to stay as healthy as possible when you’re out on the road. The demand for trucks and supplies will likely continue to be high as Americans stay home to try to avoid exposure to and the spread of COVID-19. To help protect your own health and that of your family, and to ensure…
We’ve compiled this blog in an effort to keep you up to date on the most relevant news and to help you find any critical support and information from brokers, shippers, truck stops, gas stations, and other relevant sources. We will update this blog with the most up to date information as it becomes available to us. Last updated…
Carriers are the key to greater supply chain visibility. Despite their obviously vital role in load visibility, 69 percent of the truckers who responded to a recent Trucker Tools survey reported that they aren’t given a choice of which load tracking method to use when hauling a load for a broker. When carriers, particularly owner operators and small carriers, aren’t…
As a driver, owner operator or trucking company, you’re no doubt aware that truckload visibility, also known as load tracking and freight visibility, is a high priority for freight brokers and logistics companies. What you may not know is why the ability to closely track freight when it’s on your truck is so important to shippers, whose freight you’re transporting.…
With new developments occurring every day, we’ve put together a brief summary of the impact that COVID-19 (also known as the Coronavirus) currently is having on the trucking industry, as well as the latest news. As always, Trucker Tools sends a big thank you to all of you truckers out there who are on the road, making sure our grocery…
It’s a difficult time for everyone, from health care workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic to businesses trying to survive during a shutdown of public gatherings. The pandemic is hitting the transportation industry as we see layoffs of drivers and brokerage/logistics staff members, disruption of intermodal and import/export traffic, and truck capacity tightening in the Southern United…
Freight visibility technology is the X-factor when it comes to beating out the competition, whether you’re a freight broker, logistics provider or shipper. The real-time, automated load tracking provided by freight visibility technology like Trucker Tools digital load tracking platform reduces check calls, facilitates data sharing, automates communications, increases operational efficiency and raises service levels across the entire supply chain.…
Automating truck searches and bookings is important for your brokerage or logistics company because it is a relatively simple and cost-effective way to harness the capabilities of the latest technology to increase revenue. Recent advances in artificial intelligence, automation and machine learning are giving brokers and 3PLs of all sizes access to powerful technology that can increase operational efficiency, strengthen…
When you hear the phrase “operational efficiency,” do you think of mega carriers and Fortune 500 companies? If so, it may be time to rethink your definition of operational efficiency and consider what it can offer your trucking business. The truth is that one of the most effective methods for boosting profit margins in your business is to increase operational…
Digital Freight Matching for Brokers — Seven Ways To Find and Secure Truck Capacity More Efficiently
It’s crystal clear that using load boards, phone calls and emails to find and secure truck capacity isn’t efficient. All three of these methods shift your human resources away from serving your shippers and concentrate your staffing on manual processes. In lieu of using these outdated, manual methods for finding and booking trucks, you can leverage the power of Trucker…
RESTON, VA – MARCH 11, 2020 – Trucker Tools , which provides real-time shipment visibility, trip planning, freight-matching and automated booking tools for freight brokers and truckload carriers, announced it has been recognized in Gartner’s Market Guide for Real-Time Transportation Visibility Platforms. According to the research, published last month and authored by Bart De Muynck, Gartner VP Analyst, “real-time transportation…
In case you missed it, our February blogs were loaded with information on how to minimize inefficiencies and maximize profits for your brokerage/3PL. Choosing load visibility and truck capacity solutions that integrate with your current TMS are crucial to streamlining your brokerage processes and upping operational efficiency. That’s why Trucker Tools is pleased to announce two new integration partners, HighJump…
Meet Frank and Stephanie Rebelo, also known as The Trucking Couple. Frank and Stephanie made a real lifestyle change when they began team driving and hauling expedited freight, selling their home and cars to truly live life on the road. Frank and Stephanie team-drive for Hyfield Trucking, a carrier that provides same-day and overnight delivery of expedited freight for FedEx’s…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. Our January blogs were packed with valuable business tips for new drivers, veteran truckers and carrier dispatchers. We covered a lot of ground, from advice on how to improve your load searches to how we’ve addressed your privacy and…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. Our January blogs were packed with valuable business tips on how to increase revenue in your brokerage in 2020. We covered a lot of ground — from how to reduce check calls and our automated Book-It-Now tool to how…
We recently had a sit-down with Wayne Campbell of The Driver’s Side to discuss his video series for and about truck drivers and his perspective on the trucking industry. We chatted with Wayne about the many diverse roles he’s held in the industry, from driving for NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal and running reefer freight to being a lease purchase operator…
Trucker Tools recently surveyed truckers about visibility tools and their preferences. In the survey, we asked truckers about their preferred methods for load tracking. Of those who responded, five percent answered that their preferred freight tracking method is using an ELD device. Only 18 percent of the truckers surveyed prefer single function mobile apps that only track freight. That means…
Your ideal technology provider helps you increase the efficiency of your business, anticipate trends, and strengthen your relationships with partners and customers. Above all, your technology partner should be exactly that: a partner, not just a vendor who disappears once you’ve purchased their solution. In a recent webinar, we spoke with Diana Bullington of Syfan Logistics, who shared her insights…
In an increasingly digital world, seamless platform integration is essential if you want to provide the best experience possible for your customers and increase the operational efficiency of your brokerage/logistics company. That’s why we’re excited to welcome HighJump as one of our newest integration partners. Named one of Inbound Logistics’ Top 100 Logistics IT Providers for 2019, HighJump’s solutions encompass…
Trucker Tools recently spent some time getting to know Jacinda Duran, also known as Jacinda Lady Truck’n. As a third-generation female truck driver who grew up around trucking, Jacinda spoke to us about her journey from driving limos to working as a FedEx courier. In our conversation with Jacinda, we learned about her current career as an enclosed car hauler…
Teknowlogi rolls out Smart Capacity’s predictive freight-matching, capacity management tools to improve visibility, timely access to accurate, real-time available truckload capacity for TMS Users Sets integration timetable for automated “Book it Now” feature, other carrier collaboration tools to streamline booking process, improve driver engagement, reduce brokers’ variable costs to cover loads Complements earlier strategic integration of Trucker Tools features and…
Minutes and hours matter when you’re a trucker. When you spend an hour or two searching for and securing a truck load, it means you have an hour or two less for driving and making money. That’s why we’re excited about Book-It-Now, our new fully automated freight booking platform for brokers and carriers. Book-It-Now eliminates the back and forth phone…
How much is your current freight visibility tool costing you? At first glance, that may seem like a straightforward question that can be easily answered, but is it? Your current load tracking tool may be costing you more than you think. If your digital load tracking solution isn’t reducing the time you spend on load tracking or doesn’t reduce phone…
As the weather starts to warm up from south to north, there is usually lots of produce that needs to be moved, but not enough trucks, which is good news for owner-operators and trucking companies. Knowing where to go at specific times this spring, summer and fall can help you get the highest produce hauling rates and maximize your earnings.…
In 2018, respondents to Gartner’s Wants and Needs Survey ranked visibility as the highest priority in the supply chain. Despite the clear need for freight visibility, the average freight tracking compliance success rate for brokers and 3PLs remains in the range of 30 to 40 percent. That means for every 100 loads, 60 to 70 aren’t visible. In an increasingly…
When considering solutions to implement in your brokerage, cost is one of the factors that figures heavily in the decisions you make. Keep in mind, however, that the true cost of a solution often is more than just the initial purchase price and any recurring monthly fees. To understand the true cost of any technology-based solution, you should consider the…
With all the pressure on brokers today to update their systems and provide real-time data to shippers, how do brokers – particularly middle marker players – make an informed, successful choice about what technology platforms to adopt. With all the third-party, cloud-based network solutions available today, it makes no sense for a broker to try to build their own. Delay…
If you’re a freight broker, you’re expected to provide top-notch service, including continuous load tracking, to your shippers to retain their business. At the same time, you also must foster good relationships with high-quality carriers in order to meet your shippers’ needs. In your role as an intermediary between carriers and shippers, you have to walk that fine line of…
If you’re like most brokers and logistics providers, you find that delivering continuous freight visibility to your shippers can be difficult. The single feature carrier visibility apps that your shippers may ask you to use are often unpopular with carriers. Some carriers may flat out refuse to use these single feature load tracking apps altogether. The alternative to digital freight…
If you’re a dispatcher for a small to mid-sized trucking company, one of the biggest challenges you face on a daily basis is finding high-quality freight with preferred brokers that matches your available truck capacity. Using load boards is time-consuming and labor intensive because the data posted on load boards may be inaccurate and/or becomes outdated quickly. You also typically…
Shippers increasingly use data analysis to reduce inefficiencies, improve processes and increase revenue. According to American Shipper, 59 percent of shippers use performance metrics to manage freight costs. As a broker or 3PL, you can expect that shippers may require you to meet specific performance standards, known as Key Performance Indicators, to retain their business. On Time in Full (OTIF)…
New year, new decade! Now is the perfect time to consider how you can make 2020 a profitable one for your trucking business. Creating a strategy for success and making some simple adjustments to how you do business can reap major dividends later in the year. Check out our tips for ensuring this year is a great one for you…
Improving your operational efficiency, i.e. the cost effectiveness of your internal processes, provides one of the quickest and affordable pathways to growing your profit margins. Making your brokerage operate more efficiently, however, requires more than just considering and/or reducing your fixed operating costs. You also need to choose comprehensive, affordable technology-based solutions that are designed to increase operational efficiency. If…
You’ve finished trucking school, passed the knowledge and road skills tests, and gotten your commercial driver’s license. Congratulations! Now comes the fun part: learning how to make your career as a trucker a successful one. Here at Trucker Tools we’re always looking for way to help carriers make their lives easier. Check out our five tips for new drivers that…
While true there’s a mobile app for nearly everything these days, not all mobile apps are created equally — including those designed for use in the transportation industry. In this blog we highlight the differences between the Trucker Tools free driver app and other trucking, visibility and freight matching apps in use today by brokers, 3PLs and carriers. At the…
As an owner-operator or owner of a trucking company, your profit margins are directly impacted by how much money you spend to run your business, i.e. your operating costs. Understanding how much it takes to run your trucking business each month helps you identify any redundancies and reduce expenses, which ultimately can up your take home pay. In this blog,…
Sharae Moore is a trucker based in Chattanooga, Tenn., who is the founder of She Trucking, an online community for women in the trucking industry with more than 5,000 members. In addition to managing She Trucking, Sharae is an instructor at Chattanooga State Community College where she teaches CDL classes. Trucker Tools recently spoke with Sharae about her recommendations for new…
If you’re a carrier dispatcher using load boards, you’re probably spending a lot of time finding loads. You may have to pay for multiple monthly load board subscriptions just to see the information posted. The load information that is posted on the load boards to which you subscribe may be out of date and/or incorrect by the time you see…
Company Snapshot: LTI Delivers is an Iowa based transportation solutions provider that offers logistics, trucking, and intermodal services. LTI Delivers is a full-service transportation company that offers transportation management, freight brokerage and truckload services encompassing freight management, temperature-controlled, refrigerated, dry van, bulk, hopper, and dedicated solutions. LTI Delivers places a high value on customer satisfaction and long-term retention of its…
Last month, we surveyed a group of truckers to get their thoughts on load tracking technologies. Needless to say, privacy, transparency and poor performance are still major concerns for truckers when it comes to load tracking mobile apps. In this blog, we discuss the results of this short survey, including some of the comments from individual truckers, and how the…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out these summaries of Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. Happy New Year from the Trucker Tools team! December is always a busy month, which is why we’ve rounded up our best blogs of the month for you right here! We closed out 2019 and the…
For small and mid-sized brokerages, choosing technology with a high return on investment is crucial, especially when competing with larger brokers. The results that LTI Delivers has achieved with Trucker Tools proves that you don’t need limitless resources, expensive infrastructure or a long timeline to increase the service that you provide to shippers as a brokerage. With smart decision making,…
Schneider is one of the largest and most successful trucking companies in the country. The company employs approximately 20,000 people across the United States with annual revenue of approximately $5 billion. Schneider’s services encompass truckload, intermodal, brokerage, and logistics. In a recent webinar with Trucker Tools and Talking Logistics, Ben Schuchart, VP of Operations for Schneider Transportation Management, discussed how…
Load tracking (also known as freight visibility) is something that your broker and 3PL partners likely talk to you about a lot. It may also be a source of frustration for you, especially if you’re an owner-operator or small to mid-sized trucking company that works with many different brokers and 3PLs. In this blog, we break down why visibility is…
Providing accurate, continuous visibility to your shipper customers is more important than ever in your freight brokerage or logistics business. If you want to retain your current shipper customers and potentially grow your business, you have to be able to deliver freight visibility that goes beyond the industry average 30 to 40 percent tracking compliance success rate. Many shippers require…
Efficiency equals cost-savings for your shipper partners, which is why shippers lean heavily on key performance indicators (KPIs) to gauge the efficiency of their operations. Shippers define what their KPIs are, so there may be some variance between shippers. However, most shippers are concerned with four major transportation KPIs: on-time delivery, on-time pick-up, dwell time and on-time delivery to the…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out these summaries of Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. Happy New Year from the Trucker Tools team! December is always a busy month, which is why we’ve rounded up our best blogs of the month for you right here! We closed out 2019 and the…
The trucking industry currently is at a critical juncture. Trucking is being reshaped, as we speak, influenced by emerging digital freight start-ups and the entrance of corporations like Uber Freight and Amazon into the market. New technology, a global economy and an increase in the number of small trucking companies also are changing how all of us in the trucking…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out these summaries of Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. Happy Holidays from all of us here at Trucker Tools! In the spirit of giving, we’ve put together a summary of our best blogs from the last month. In this roundup, learn more about Trucker Tools’…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out these summaries of Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. Happy Holidays from all of us here at Trucker Tools! In the spirit of giving, we’ve put together a summary of our best blogs from the last month. In this roundup, learn more about Trucker Tools’…
Implements fully operational, advanced digital carrier engagement platform, completely automates load booking and confirmation process. Reduces time, cost to “cover” a load from as much as 2 hours to less than 15 minutes. Expands Kingsgate’s access to a capacity network of over 725,000 truckers on the industry-leading Trucker Tools Mobile Driver App. Addresses driver demands for increased automation, quality loads…
Begins network-wide commercial operation of a fully automated, third-party digital freight booking platform for brokers and carriers. Significantly enhances ease of doing business for independent truckers and small fleets; improves driver experience, productivity, satisfaction. RESTON, VA – NOVEMBER 12, 2019 – Trucker Tools LLC, which provides shipment visibility, carrier capacity management and predictive freight-matching solutions for the transportation industry, announced…
In a recent survey, shippers named visibility as the top problem that technology is capable of solving. Despite visibility’s importance to shippers, average tracking compliance success rates in the trucking industry hover between 30 and 40 percent. As you likely know, one of the biggest inhibitors of greater visibility is low carrier adoption of freight tracking technology. In this blog,…
As a trucker, you need tools that simplify life on the road — plain and simple. You don’t want to use seven or eight different mobile apps during the course of your day that drains your battery or use up all your data. You definitely don’t want to use apps that don’t respect your privacy. And if you’re like most…
The federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission received more than 400 gender-discrimination complaints between 2005 and 2015, which is a substantial number, considering that only six percent of truck drivers are female. Of those, one in six reported a racial component of the misconduct and two-thirds said they were retaliated against for reporting the harassment or assault. Though no large-scale studies…
Real-time visibility is what you need to deliver high-quality results and service. But if you’re like most brokers, you track a large portion of your loads by making phone calls to dispatchers or truckers. Even though you realize that calling each dispatcher/trucker multiple times isn’t a cost-effective process for your business, you may struggle to find an effective visibility solution…
Hauling temperature-controlled loads come with its own challenges, no matter what the season. In the winter, cold weather and rapid fluctuations in outdoor temperatures can cause freight to freeze or completely ruin temp-controlled loads that include produce or pharmaceutical products. Even a temperature deviation of two degrees can potentially decrease the shelf life of freight by up to 50 percent,…
Teknowlogi, Trucker Tools’ newest integration partner, is a California-based transportation automation company known for its innovative solutions that leverage the power of automation and artificial intelligence. The company’s focus on delivering a high return on investment, ease of use, and high-quality service and support to its customers matches Trucker Tools’ values, which center on providing ongoing value and support to multiple…
Brian Phillips is a flatbed owner-operator who works for RiverDog Express in its Open Deck trucking division. When he’s not on the road pulling his 53’ Reitnouer Low Pro Step Deck, he’s creating content for his YouTube channel, Driven Trucking, which has more than one million views and 16,000 subscribers. On his YouTube channel, Brian offers tips, perspective, and advice…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out these summaries of Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. We covered a lot of ground in our blogs in October! In this roundup, you can find out what most visibility vendors don’t want you to know (don’t worry, it’s good news) and how to reduce your…
In our monthly link round-up, combat fear of missing out by checking out these summaries of Trucker Tools’ top blogs from the last month. We covered a lot of ground in our blogs in October! In this roundup, you can learn more about how Trucker Tools’ load tracking provides transparency for truckers and how using Trucker Tools’ driver app can improve…
Featured Speakers: Ben Schuchart, Vice President of Operations, Schneider Transportation Management Prasad Gollapalli, Founder and CEO, Trucker Tools Today’s truckload transportation industry relies on tens of thousands of “micro” fleets and independent owner-operators. They’re challenged every day to keep the wheels turning and move as many loads as quickly, safely and on-time as possible. That’s how they make money and…
For the last 66 years, J.J. Keller & Associates has been providing safety and regulatory compliance expertise to employers in the transportation industry. The company’s offerings have evolved over the years to include DOT, OSHA workplace safety, construction industry, and human resources products and services, as well as online courses and video training. J.J. Keller also develops and offers technology-based…
In October, Trucker Tools’ carrier network surpassed the 800,000 mark. Translation: more than three-quarters of a million truckers have downloaded and are using Trucker Tools’ free driver app! Last April, our carrier network was 600,000-strong, which means it has increased by 25 percent over a short six month period. The good news is that your brokerage can tap into Trucker Tools’ large carrier…
Here at Trucker Tools, we stand by what we say. When we say that our Book-It-Now load booking software fully automates your booking process with carriers, we mean it! Trucker Tools Book-It-Now solution makes the load booking experience seamless for both you and your carrier partners. When you use Book-It-Now in your brokerage, you gain a tremendous efficiency advantage that ultimately can…
Freight visibility — knowing precisely where shipments are and when they will arrive — is one of the most significant challenges for the supply chain. When visibility is accurate and continuous, every segment of the supply chain benefits, from truckers and dispatchers to brokers, shippers, and consumers. If real-time load tracking data isn’t available, the negative effects also are felt across…
If you’re a broker running 100 loads or less each month, you may think that a high-quality, accurate load tracking platform is out of your financial reach. Think again! At Trucker Tools, we create solutions that specifically serve the needs of small and mid-sized brokerages like yours. That’s why our load tracking platform is made to integrate with all of the…
The entire team here at Trucker Tools is excited to introduce the newest version of our free driver app, which can be your go-to app while you’re on the road and during home time. The biggest change in our newest, soon to be released version of Trucker Tools’ driver app is the way that it looks. Based on feedback from you…
Featured Speakers: Mike Riccio, Chief Marketing Officer, Leonard’s Express Prasad Gollapalli, Founder and CEO, Trucker Tools As 2019 comes to a close one development stands out – it has been a year of remarkable, disruptive and transformative change for technology in transportation. At the heart has been the rise of digital platforms, and their promise for remaking – some would…
This series of blogs, Driver App Tips, provides practical guidance for truckers on using Trucker Tools’ free mobile driver application. Read time: two minutes. Time to apply new skill: one minute. Benefits: • Find nearby truck stops, cheapest fuel in seconds. • Plan stops on your route. • Reduce time spent using multiple apps. • Increase efficiency. One of the…
With previous experience working for shipper, carrier and broker companies, industry influencer Craig Bliss has a unique perspective on the ins and outs of today’s freight market. Trucker Tools recently interviewed Craig about the current state of the industry and asked him how owner-operators and small trucking companies can meet the challenges of today’s competitive market. Here, we’ve gathered Craig’s advice on…
Watch the recording of our recent webinar with Choptank Transport. The challenge of visibility – the technology options, ensuring timeliness and quality and accomplishing it reliably and accurately – has been the bane of carriers and brokers ever since the first truck picked up the first shipment, and the customer asked, “where’s my load.” Yet defining the ideal visibility solution,…
Time is money in the trucking business, especially for owner-operators and trucking companies. It’s pretty simple: when you reduce the time you spend on manual tasks in your trucking business, you gain more time for moving freight, finding the next load and making more money. Earlier this year, we added a powerful new digital load booking feature to the Trucker Tools free driver app…
At Trucker Tools, we specialize in delivering solutions that make brokers, 3PLs, and carriers more efficient in their daily operations. This dedication to creating practical, easy to use solutions that automate daily tasks using leading-edge technology has led to widespread adoption of both our free driver app and Smart Capacity real-time carrier capacity and relationship management platform. Here are five statistics…
Efficiency is everything in the transportation business, especially for carriers and owner-operators. Time saved on daily tasks can be the difference between a decent year and a fantastic year when it comes to revenue. Check out these five facts about the Trucker Tools driver app that illustrate why so many owner-operators and carriers have incorporated Trucker Tools’ solutions into their…
We’re happy to report that Trucker Tools has received a FreightWaves 2020 FreightTech 100 Award for the second consecutive year! The FreightTech 100 Awards recognize the most innovative, impactful and disruptive leaders in the freight industry. Trucker Tools is proud to be recognized again on this year’s list. FreightWaves received more than 1,200 nominations for this year’s FreightTech 100 Awards, encompassing a…
Over the summer, the development team at Trucker Tools has been hard at work on making our free mobile driver app better than ever. We are excited to announce that a new version of the Trucker Tools driver app is scheduled to be available in Apple’s App Store this fall, followed by the Google Play Store shortly thereafter. With the…
We’re excited to name Freight Management Systems, Inc. as a new integration partner because of the company’s long-standing commitment to continuous improvement and helping its customers flourish. For the last 30 years, FMS has been providing logistics software solutions to trucking companies and freight brokers, forwarders and agents of all sizes. With an emphasis on helping transportation companies automate manual…
In our recent FreightWaves webinar on how visibility is non-negotiable for brokers, several of the webinar’s attendees posed some thoughtful questions to Trucker Tools’ CEO Prasad Gollapalli about Trucker Tools’ visibility solution and the freight market. We loved the insightful questions from the audience, so we’re sharing those here with Prasad’s responses. Read on to learn more about how Trucker…
If you’re like most truckers, you no doubt have some strong opinions about freight tracking apps. Maybe you refuse to use tracking apps altogether because you feel like you never know when tracking starts and stops. Or you may use some freight tracking apps, but do so uneasily, always wondering if the location data pulled from the app will somehow…
Time is everything in the transportation business. If you can reduce the time that you spend finding and securing capacity, you can reduce your brokerage’s cost per load, increase overall load volume and ultimately increase profitability for your business. Read on to learn how Trucker Tools’ Book-It-Now can help you reduce the variable cost of covering a load to practically…