Optimize truck fleet routes and maximize every mile

Managing a truck fleet today feels like driving through a never-ending obstacle course of financial challenges and technological twists.

Since 2021–22, the trucking industry has struggled to regain momentum post-COVID. Carriers are still chasing rate recoveries to cover rising driver wages—often the largest expense on the balance sheet. Meanwhile, recruiting and retaining qualified drivers remains a persistent challenge. By Q3 last year, 35,000 new trucking companies had shut down.

That's why you need to dial in your truck fleet management in this climate to get more out of every mile. Leveraging technology to plan smarter routes, ramp up backhauls and minimize empty miles only scratches the surface of what's possible.

Here's what you should know about improving truck fleet planning to thrive, even when the road gets rough.

Core aspects of truck fleet planning

Smart planning and the right technology elevate your truck fleet utilization. A Transportation Management System (TMS) is the most comprehensive solution because it helps you manage routes, trucks and budgets on one platform. It streamlines your day-to-day by automating tedious tasks, optimizing truck fleet utilization and identifying potential cost-cutting areas.

How a TMS streamlines shipping and saves money

The underlying goal of a TMS is to make your truck fleet utilization less about guesswork and more about making informed, strategic decisions that keep routes optimized and trucks running full.

With a TMS, you can oversee your entire shipping operation, track every truck and route and ensure you're getting the most from every mile.

First, it helps you effortlessly sift through contracts and rates to secure the best deals. Then, smart algorithms pinpoint the most cost-effective routes, potentially shaving off 2-5% in freight costs while automating the match-pay process to slash even more expenses.

Data-driven fleet optimization strategies

Managing your truck fleet today means staying ahead of rising fuel costs and optimizing every route. Data analytics is your most powerful tool for making it happen.

How data analytics can optimize truck fleet routes and save money

Think about how you plan a road trip: you look at the map, consider traffic updates and check gas prices, right?

Now, imagine doing that for your entire fleet of trucks.

That's where data analytics steps in. It crunches numbers on everything from how full each truck is to the timing of deliveries, road conditions and even fuel costs. This way, you're always using the best possible routes to avoid traffic jams and reduce fuel consumption.

Beyond making trips faster, it also puts real money back in your pocket. Using less fuel, reducing strain on your trucks and using drivers' hours more efficiently all add up to lower costs.

 And there's more... data analytics help keep your operations transparent, ensure you comply with shipping regulations to avoid fines and give you insights that help you manage your fleet better.

By monitoring key metrics like traffic patterns and fuel expenses, you can make intelligent decisions that keep your business running smoothly, competitively and fully optimized.

Tackling rising truck fleet fuel costs

Fuel prices are climbing, creating significant challenges for truck fleets everywhere. As of May 2024, the average price of gasoline hit $3.608 per gallon. Diesel reached $3.848 on May 13 and prices continue to fluctuate.

To stay ahead, fleets are embracing advanced route planning tools and fuel management technologies. Some are also exploring sustainable alternatives, including fuel-efficient vehicles and eco-conscious route strategies that reduce environmental impact while meeting growing consumer demand for greener logistics. With the challenges, fleets must get creative to keep operations competitive and profitable. 

Key takeaways for optimizing your truck fleet utilization

Success in logistics requires a sharp strategy, especially with today's headwinds. For many logistics professionals, advanced solutions and TMS have changed everything for the better from many angles.

With a powerful solution from Infios you can:

•  Automate fleet operations
• Improve route efficiency
• Reduce fuel and freight costs
• Increase driver and asset utilization

Whether it's simplifying shipment planning and claims management, streamlining operations or managing costs effectively, the benefits of truck fleet optimization are substantial.

Industry-leading TMS platforms like Infios’s Transport Management System (TMS), take this to another level. Our systems boost efficiency across all facets of fleet management. This type of platform can completely change the equation and make your operations more competitive and profitable.

See how Infios can revolutionize your fleet management. Schedule a demo today to see our solutions in action.