The new ELD mandate for Canadian trucks becomes enforceable on January 1st, 2023, so fleets already have the momentum to implement end-to-end automation. Trucking companies that successfully deploy automated fleet management processes enable valuable benefits for drivers, maintenance, and back-office people.
How ELD systems can drive fleet management automation
In a recent interview, ISAAC CEO Jacques DeLarochellière stressed that “automation is about having the answers at the right time—not chasing the answers.” ELD systems can play a key part in delivering timely answers that support crucial aspects of automated fleet management.
Such a system can serve as a hub that helps to push the right information at the right time to the right people. At the same time, it can collect individual truck data that feeds automated workflows. Automated, self-driving trucks grab all the headlines, but automated dispatching, fleet planning, and maintenance can deliver real-world value and benefits right now.
Three benefits of automated workflows for fleets
Automation keeps the wheels turning
Drivers can rely on ELD systems and automation to quickly give them the information they need. When drivers must present logs to authorities, they won’t need to fumble around with software and paperwork. Instead, automated processes help to deliver the information to people who enforce regulations.
Less time looking for data allows drivers to keep the wheels turning.
Automation helps to address labor shortages
Automated systems also help to reduce the amount of work required to manage fleets and comply with regulations. Otherwise, when drivers don’t have the answers they need in front of them, they will pass this type of workload to people in the back office. Increased workloads require a larger workforce, while automation can reduce the overall volume of work required.
Automation delivers actionable insight
Automation provides access to insight for many aspects of fleet management, such as maintenance. ELD systems can also include components that analyze a truck’s data network, revealing a type of maintenance needed, and potentially unseen issues that could create delays.
With enough data, automated systems can help to implement preventative repair schedules that maximize the availability of trucks while extending the lifespan of the entire fleet.
ELD regulations reveal an opportunity to automate
ELD regulations signal a permanent shift in the way that the North American trucking industry will move forward. These regulations provide additional motivation for companies to fully embrace an automated, data-driven approach to fleet management.
It’s important to understand that automated workflows don’t replace drivers, dispatchers, and other people. Instead, the systems automatically push timely information that enriches the day-to-day work of people while opening up more time to perform critical work.
Companies with significant fleets can leverage not only the electronic logging of service hours, but also automated workflows to transform the way they manage every aspect of fleet operations. Nearly all businesses have an opportunity to create greater efficiency, transparency, and productivity through automation.
Talk to our experts to discover how automation benefits your fleet.