Transport telematics - what is it?
What is telematics of transport? It's a very advanced module that allows increasing efficiency and profits of a transport company. Most intelligent systems are based on a mix of solutions from the field of telecommunications, automation, and information technology. A well-designed program allows optimization of most of the logistic processes that increase efficiency and even allows combining several routes into one for significant cost reduction. Modern processes also contribute to an even better layout of the vehicle fleet, which not only does not return empty but can also perform several tasks at once. Current telematics systems not only use a central database with fast calculation processes but also allow connection to external units - these can be company laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The right software allows for remote connectivity with the driver and provides a huge, geographic database that can easily be used. One of the basics of telematics is devices mounted directly on vehicles that connect remotely to the company's central database.
How does transportation telematics work?
How does telematics work for transportation companies? Everything is based on a central database unit, which makes its resources available to further devices in the company and drivers in vehicles. Using Wi-Fi or GSM technology, the driver can connect to the forwarder at any time and talk to him about problems on the road. The forwarder, using a well-composed geographic database, can easily find a new route that will hook up with all the reloading points and shipment addressees. A great telematics system can leverage multiple resources at once that will greatly simplify logistics processes, as well as respond to unforeseen situations.
How does telematics improve transportation? It is a complex system that utilizes multiple cost-effective resources. It greatly simplifies decision-making in freight transportation. Most systems use:
- Internet networks,
- Cellular networks,
- Radio communications systems,
- Geographical databases,
- traffic databases,
- satellite navigation systems,
- devices and weather databases,
- road traffic monitoring devices,
- radars set up along roads,
- traffic cameras.
These are dozens of factors, devices, and data, which then need to be processed and logical conclusions drawn from them. Telematics systems allow for full cooperation between headquarters, dispatcher, and driver. This translates into better working conditions, as well as more beneficial decisions.
What are the best telematics solutions?
Which telematics systems are the best? It all depends on the solutions you decide on. There are several large companies in the market today that are responsible for building a complete software offering for medium and larger trucking companies. Small companies with a national scope do not need such extensive subsystems - however, it is worth investing in certain IT solutions. They guarantee even better operation on routes and significantly increase efficiency. Which at the same time means much higher profits. Good computer software and devices in the vehicle must also have a user-friendly interface, which will be understandable for every employee. It is worth implementing modern telematics solutions - they give much better results.
Where to look for good telematics systems? You can look for them directly at the manufacturers or go to a trade fair, where the manufacturer will show how the system works in real-time. Investing in innovative information technologies not only increases the efficiency of driving on a single route but also allows to significantly reduce costs. Today's software packages are very rich and geared towards different types of customers. Using the entire telematics system along with helpful subsystems allows you to enter a higher level of logistics. The trucking company then grows much faster and can dispense with unnecessary elements that were previously overlooked. Good traffic telematics analyzes, counts, and optimizes.
Road telematics - why is it worth it?
Why is road telematics so profitable in logistics? Because the company system and its subsystems work in real-time. Rich traffic databases can be accessed at any time and immediate decisions can be made based on analysis. A good telematics system also allows you to make complex plans for the future and adjust them in real-time at the same time - if necessary. Access to modern road and weather databases also allows you to anticipate certain situations on the road and make the necessary adjustments to your route or split it into two vehicles. These types of systems work for optimization and cost-effectiveness. It is an investment in the greater efficiency of logistics mechanisms and information.
Is it profitable to invest in telematics solutions? Most cases indicate that it is. At the very beginning, it is necessary to invest in the vehicle fleet and the company's IT, but the result is unlimited real-time access to rich databases. It is safe to say that this is a considerable saving in fixed costs, fleet, fuel, and also in communication with drivers. The dispatcher can easily control their work area, respond to any situation, and quickly connect with each driver. This is a very profitable investment that will contribute to a significant reduction in costs that you did not notice before.