TT Podcasts: RoadSigns
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Episode 154: How Can Fleets Control Tire Costs in a Tough Freight Market?
In an industry in which profitability is essential for survival, tire management plays a pivotal role in controlling costs for trucking businesses. In this episode of RoadSigns, experts from Sailun Tires dive into strategies for managing tire expenses amid a challenging freight market. How much do these essential components really affect your bottom line? What will it take for your tire management programs to enhance long-term value? From retreading and fuel efficiency to total cost analysis, optimizing tire performance has never been more crucial or more attainable. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 153: What Will 2025 Bring for Autonomous Trucking?
The road to autonomous trucking has been a long and winding one, but 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for this technology. As self-driving trucks edge closer to commercial deployment, the transportation industry is beginning to explore how autonomous vehicles could fit into real-world freight operations. However, significant challenges remain. What obstacles must be overcome for autonomous trucks to reshape the movement of freight? Host Seth Clevenger sits down with Lori Heino-Royer, head of business development at Waabi, to explore the latest developments, breakthroughs and key industry partnerships. Discover how self-driving technology could work in tandem with trucking’s workforce to redefine transportation. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 152: How Can Video and AI Maximize Safety in Trucking?
Safety has always been paramount in the trucking industry, but advances in technology are making it possible to improve driver performance and prevent more crashes. John Elliott, a trailblazer in the field, demonstrates how onboard video combined with AI-enabled analytics can transform fleet safety. What inspired Elliott to deploy this technology, and why do others now follow his lead? Discover how video and AI are advancing safety in the trucking industry, and learn if your fleet can seize this opportunity. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 151: Inside the Rankings: 2024's Top Global Freight Companies
Last year, the world's largest transportation and logistics giants found themselves navigating numerous headwinds, from a decline in international trade and escalating geopolitical tensions to a growing sense of economic instability. These converging challenges tested the resilience of even the most robust global supply chains, forcing industry leaders to adapt swiftly or risk being left behind in a rapidly shifting landscape. In this episode of RoadSigns, host Seth Clevenger and Transport Topics Features Coordinator Mike Senatore take you behind the scenes to unveil the 2024 Top 50 Global Freight Companies — revealing how the biggest names in global logistics are navigating a turbulent world. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 150: How Can Trucking Companies Thrive Amid a Rate Recession?
Did you know that nearly 70% of U.S. freight moves by truck? Yet many trucking companies are facing significant business challenges in a persistently tough freight market. In this special episode, we pull back the curtain on the freight rate recession, revealing strategies that can help companies not only survive, but thrive. Discover how innovative trucking businesses are turning obstacles into opportunities by investing in technology and leveling up their customer service. Hear from McLeod Software CEO Tom McLeod as he explores the potential for artificial intelligence to boost efficiency and build resilience. Don’t just weather the storm, learn how to grow through it. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 149: How Can You Protect Your Freight During Peak Season? Expert Tips from Seth Clevenger and Dr. Erika Voss
Hackers don't take holidays! And neither should your cybersecurity efforts. In an increasingly digital and connected business landscape, the transportation industry faces rising challenges with cybersecurity threats and fraud. In this special episode, Transport Topics Managing Editor of Features and Multimedia Seth Clevenger sits down with Dr. Erika Voss, Vice President of Information Security for DAT Freight and Analytics, to discuss crucial strategies and best practices for safeguarding information and assets in a high-demand period. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 148: Why Large Shippers Are Growing Their In-House Trucking Divisions
At a time when for-hire trucking capacity is widely available at competitive rates, many large shippers are still choosing to double down on their own private fleets rather than fully capitalizing on favorable freight market conditions. A perfect case study is Walmart, which is now the largest private fleet operator in North America after ramping up investments in its in-house trucking operations in recent years. In this special episode, Seth Clevenger and TT’s features coordinator, Mike Senatore, dive into the details behind the 2024 Top 100 Private Carriers list. Together, they explore why more shippers are deciding to bolster their private fleets, and what this shift means for the industry. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 147: How Can APUs Make Trucking More Sustainable?
Auxiliary power units are becoming an increasingly vital tool for the trucking industry to increase driver comfort while also conserving fuel by reducing engine idling. But to what extent can these systems also enhance environmental sustainability? And how is APU technology evolving? In this episode, we find answers with Mathieu Boivin, CEO of Transtex, which recently acquired electric APU provider DClimate. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 146: How Can Effective Supply Chain Management Transform Fleet Maintenance?
One of the main hurdles in parts supply chain management is the ongoing issue of product availability. Despite advances, many fleets still struggle with holding vehicles down due to the unavailability of commonly used parts. This problem is exacerbated by many fleets adopting just-in-time inventory programs, which can increase downtime when parts aren't readily available. Factors such as investment costs, obsolescence and loss further complicate the decision to maintain large on-hand stock inventories. So, how can you avoid such hurdles? Is it simply enough to expand inventory and enhance your current technology? In this special episode, we find answers with Cox Automotive's Kevin Clark. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 145: How Is the Rise of ADAS Technology Elevating Truck Safety?
Advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings and onboard camera systems can improve highway safety while also enhancing the efficiency of trucking operations, but only if carriers choose to adopt these technologies. What will it take to accelerate ADAS adoption in the trucking industry? And can expanded technical information and industry outreach convince more fleets to invest in these safety systems? In this episode, Jeff Loftus, chief of the advanced technology division at FMCSA’s office of research and registration, joins TT’s Seth Clevenger to discuss the current outlook on ADAS technology and how it will affect the industry at large. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 144: Inside the List: Transport Topics' 2024 Top 100 For-Hire Carriers
Survival of the fittest in trucking. While enduring a prolonged freight recession, the largest trucking companies in North America have been subject to declining revenue and weaker profits. The financial strain caused by the freight downturn, which took hold in mid-2022 and has continued for two years into the first half of 2024, is plainly evident across the for-hire carrier landscape. What are the biggest pain points for carriers? And how are companies persevering in these challenging conditions? In this special episode, the makers of Transport Topics' updated Top 100 For-Hire Carriers list examine how the freight market slump has altered the competitive landscape in trucking. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 143: How Will AI Empower Data-Driven Fleet Management?
The buzz around AI is deafening, but amid the hype, practical strategies for deployment are emerging. AI applications are expected to improve business decisions in many facets of freight transportation by better utilizing the massive amounts of data companies are gathering on their operations. While the rise of AI may offer a pathway to higher levels of safety and efficiency in the trucking industry, transportation companies and their technology vendors still need to determine the best ways to realize this potential. How are early adopters beginning to harness this latest wave of AI? Let's find out with Corey Cox, senior vice president of innovation for the Tandet Group of companies. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 142: How Can Fleet Tire Programs Be Both Data-Informed and Cost-Effective?
Think fast! Do you know the proper PSI levels for commercial truck tires? Few people do. And yet, advanced tire-monitoring skills are some of the more sought-after in truck maintenance. After all, the biggest fleets monitor more than 9,000 tires at once. Tools that measure and prevent potential failures are essential. But how does one acquire the right tire monitoring tools? Which tools are the best to start with? What data should be collected? In this special episode, we get answers from Robby Hamby, director of commercial product strategy for Bridgestone Americas, and Ken Eggen, chief operating officer of Wolf River Express. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 141: How Does Retreading Impact Fleet Maintenance Operation?
To retread or not to retread, that is the question. For some maintenance managers, the debate between purchasing new tires or retreads is constant. Both offer ways to save on gas and emissions. And, in the current environment of high fuel prices, tire management strategies are integral to fleet operations. So what's the golden rule? In what instances are retreads needed, and in what instances are new tires needed? In this episode, host Michael Freeze finds answers with Alex Aguilar, senior training specialist at Bridgestone Americas. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 140: Inside the List: Transport Topics' 2024 Top 100 Logistics Companies
In 2023, plummeting transportation rates and an oversupply of freight hauling capacity contributed to a challenging business environment for 3PLs. These conditions have persisted into early 2024 as logistics providers wait for the market to rebound. So, when will the market turn? And in the meantime, who is capable of surviving, or even thriving, in these difficult market conditions? In this episode, we examine Transport Topics' updated Top 100 list of the largest logistics companies in North America, and explore how the industry's top players have adapted to a tough freight market and are preparing for the future. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 139: How are Truck Manufacturers Providing Suitable Safety and Connectivity Options for Commercial Fleets?
Quick! Can you explain how current truck makers are changing freight operations forever? Those who can, know there’s a certain synergy that is built into today's commercial trucks — prioritizing driver comfort, freight connectivity tools, proactive maintenance alerts, safety platforms and fuel economy. And, for those who can't ... Transport Topics' Michael Freeze has you covered. In this episode, he talks with Volvo's Chayene de Souza and Magnus Gustafson on how new, connected trucks can boost your business, enhance safety practices, and reinforce preventative maintenance plans. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
RoadShow Episode 15: Amanda Shuier and Brian Antonellis
Every year, at ATA's Technology & Maintenance Council meeting, nearly 5,000 fleet technology and maintenance professionals gather to break ground on trucking innovation. At this year's meeting, our host, Michael Freeze, found himself on the front line of change. In this special RoadShow episode, Michael first speaks with the newly installed TMC Chair Amanda Shuier, the first female chair since 1988. She shares what inspires her about the position and discusses her goals, including plans to tackle the technician shortage, engagement programs for the younger population, and incentivizing the industry to communicate more cross-sector. Then, Michael speaks with Brian Antonellis, known for managing high-quality and cost-effective fleet programs, about how industry leaders can more effectively maximize and manage complex fleet operations. What leadership tips and tricks will you learn from them? Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 138: Can Logistics Help Realize Sustainability for the Trucking Industry?
The Environmental Protection Agency's Phase 3 greenhouse gas emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles are set to take effect beginning in model year 2027. The Biden administration says the proposed standards would cut CO2 emissions by nearly 10 billion tons. To prepare for the impending requirement, the trucking industry is beginning to look toward alternative fuels like biodiesel, natural gas and electric power — making trucks cleaner and greener. However, will the trucking industry be able to keep up with evolving standards and new proposed rulings? Is the United States infrastructure prepared for a greener future? To find answers, we speak with DHL Express U.S. CEO Greg Hewitt, a sustainability realist who specializes in logistics operations and practical, short-term sustainability goals. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 137: How Can Trucking Companies Fight Fuel Card Skimming?
Imagine a threat lurking at every fuel stop, one that's draining over a billion dollars annually from unsuspecting fleet drivers. This invisible menace? Fuel card skimming — a sophisticated scam where cybercriminals steal more than just fuel charges right from under carrier noses. How do they do it, and more importantly, how can we stop them? This week, join our host Michael Freeze as he sits down with Meghann Erhart, executive vice president of Relay Payments, to expose the underbelly of this high-stakes fraud. Together, they'll delve into the world of phishing schemes and identity theft, uncovering the latest tactics used by these skimmers and sharing essential tips to shield your company — and yourself — from their grasp. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 136: How to Be Inclusive in the Trucking Industry?
The future of the North American trucking industry depends on continued advancements in safety, maintenance, technology, cost and productivity. In less than a week, 5,000 industry professionals will gather to share knowledge, research and insight with the purpose of advancing the trucking industry into a more successful, sustainable era. ATA's Technology & Maintenance Council, which is at the forefront of the latest in trucking products, equipment and technology, is expected to spotlight technical issues and industry innovation during its annual meeting March 4-7 in New Orleans. In this special episode of RoadSigns, hosts Seth Clevenger and Michael Freeze give listeners the inside scoop of what to expect at TMC Annual, rising trends in maintenance and technology, and who to watch as we step into the next chapter of trucking. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 135: How to Be Inclusive in the Trucking Industry?
With workforce shortages lingering, trucking companies are working hard to expand their driver recruitment reach by bolstering diversity and inclusion initiatives. Diverse businesses tend to be more successful due to reduced turnover, increased profits, better decision-making and improved innovation. In this episode, we wonder — how can companies reach success through inclusion? What specific steps should recruiters take to attract more minorities? With our guest, COMTO's April Rai, we unlocked numerous tips to increase workforce diversity and grow profits. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 134: Can Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Deliver for Trucking?
The transportation industry is under pressure from government regulators and some shipping customers to reduce carbon emissions. However, factors such as long distances, variable routes, high uptime requirements, strict driving-time limits and maximizing payload capacity make decarbonization particularly difficult for longhaul trucking. Given the added weight and charging requirements of battery-electric trucks, some truck makers and suppliers are investing in hydrogen. Hydrogen fuel cell trucks, which convert hydrogen into electricity to run an electric powertrain, have emerged as one of the more promising technology pathways to zero emissions. But how, where and when can these vehicles fit into the freight transportation industry? Find out with Parker Meeks, the CEO of Hyzon, a company that designs and manufactures fuel cell technology for heavy-duty transport applications. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 133: What Are Trucking’s Emerging Cybersecurity Threats?
Cyber Threat Alert: 30% of small businesses view phishing as their biggest digital menace, reports Cybersecurity Magazine. Surprisingly, 83% aren't ready for the financial aftermath of a cyberattack. How do you prevent your business from falling victim? What are the key defenses against cyberthreats? In our latest episode, we're joined by Ben Gardiner, a renowned cybersecurity expert at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association. With over 10 years in embedded systems and extensive hacking know-how, Ben provides practical, effective strategies to shield your business. He offers insights into operating systems and a comprehensive guide to cyber resilience. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 132: When Will Autonomous Trucks Take Off?
As the trucking industry continues its quest to prevent crashes and streamline the movement of freight, autonomous trucks are entering the spotlight. These self-driving vehicles promise to unlock not only enhanced safety but also remarkable efficiency gains for freight transport. Among those who have experienced this emerging technology firsthand is Seth Clevenger, who shares insights from his recent encounter with an autonomous truck prototype developed by Torc Robotics. Delving deeper, Seth speaks with Torc CEO Peter Vaughan Schmidt and Joanna Buttler, head of Daimler Truck’s global autonomous technology group. Together, they discuss the timeline for these trucks entering the market and how they could blend into existing fleet operations. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion that peers into the future of the trucking industry. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 131: Roundabout: Year in Review
Did you know that despite significant advancements in reducing emissions, our medium- and heavy-duty trucks still contribute a substantial 23% to transportation emissions? Since 1988, we've seen legislation transform the transportation landscape, advocating for alternative fuels for a healthier planet. In 2021, these changes led to a remarkable 98% reduction in emissions from new trucks. Yet, there's more road to cover. In this special year-in-review episode, we delve into the journey and future of alternative fuel trucks. How are they paving the way for a greener 2024? What does this mean for you and our environment? Join us as we explore these groundbreaking developments and envision a brighter, more sustainable future. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 130: How to Be a Sustainable Trucking Business
Did you know? Global greenhouse emissions from transportation is close to 25%, and in the U.S. it is 29%. By 2030, current emissions need to be cut by 45% to remain on track for a net zero 2050. How can trucking — an industry so dependent on fossil fuels — move to a greener, lower emissions future? In this how-to episode, we delve into strategic fleet sustainability with industry expert and ERoad's chief sustainability officer, Craig Marris. Carve out a practical, effective road map to a greener, more efficient fleet in this 60-minute session. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 129: How Can Connected Truck Technology Improve Fleet Management?
To run a truck fleet is to know a truck fleet, and when a truck is not operating at peak performance or breaks down on the side of the road, your operations suffer. Truck manufacturers such as Volvo Trucks North America have introduced an array of telematics and remote diagnostics tools designed to make it easier for trucking operations to monitor the health of their vehicles and the performance of their drivers through connected vehicle technology. Comparing the company’s connected trucks to an “iPhone on wheels,” VTNA President Peter Voorhoeve outlines how the truck maker is helping its customers make better use of this information to run their fleets more effectively. In this episode, he delves into the importance of proactive technology tools to help boost the productivity of your drivers and trucks. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 128: How Can Cloud Computing and AI Improve Fleet Management?
As the boundaries between the physical and digital realms continue to blur, transportation software companies are increasingly embracing cloud-based IT systems and AI to enable data-driven business decisions and reduce driver guesswork. One technology firm pursuing this path is Trimble, a software and telematics provider focused on connecting supply chain data streams within a unified, cloud-based ecosystem. The company believes this more connected approach to IT can empower trucking companies to optimize their planning processes, ensuring precise arrival times, guiding drivers to the optimal entry points, minimizing wasted time at facilities, maximizing asset utilization and enhancing the overall driver experience. In this episode, we are joined by Rishi Mehra, the sector vice president of Trimble’s Maps division. Rishi sheds light on the immense support that transportation technology can provide to enhance the efficiency of the physical supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 127: How to Start Your Own Trucking Business
Did you know that a staggering 70% of all freight in the United States is currently transported by the trucking industry? What's more, experts anticipate a remarkable 27% growth in the sector over the next decade. Whether you're eager to launch your own trucking business or are eyeing expansion opportunities for an existing one, the timing couldn't be better. But how can you ensure a successful journey in this highly competitive field? Join us as we introduce you to a seasoned trucking business owner who transformed a simple idea into a thriving enterprise, spanning three successful decades. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
This RoadSigns workshop is available for replay here: https://pages.ttnews.com/how-to-start-trucking-business.html
You can also sign up for the next workshop 'How To Be a Sustainable Trucking Business' that is now open for registration: https://pages.ttnews.com/how-to-be-a-sustainable-trucking-business.html
Workshop registrants receive special downloads and an exclusive Q&A experience with the industry expert.
Episode 126: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 50 Global Freight Companies
After spending the past few years grappling with severe port congestion and supply chain disruptions, international shippers and their freight transportation providers now face limited industrial real estate, lost containers, cyberthreats and fractured port appointment systems. At the same time, U.S. port operators are utilizing advancements in infrastructure and technology. In this episode, we examine Transport Topics' updated Top 50 list of the largest freight transportation companies in the world and explore how these companies are re-evaluating their supply chains and preparing for the future. Learn more about the latest trends and challenges for international freight. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 125: What Innovations Will Drive the Future of Truck Design?
When the U.S. Department of Energy challenged truck manufacturers to create a truck that improves freight efficiency by over 100%, Volvo’s Keith Brandis and Eric Bond said "challenge accepted." Volvo's new SuperTruck 2 comes with advanced cab aerodynamics, adjustable ride height, a camera-based mirroring system and low-rolling-resistance tires. Most importantly, it helps push the industry toward a zero-emission future. And since that's where the trucking industry is headed, host Seth Clevenger decided to sit with the Volvo experts for an in-depth look at the vehicle pushing the efficiency envelope. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
RoadShow Episode 14: Tom McLeod?
“We know that the future favors the prepared.” But improved management practices, Mcleod Software CEO Tom Mcleod reminds us, are not the bastion of the big and the lucky - small and midsize companies also have the opportunity to upgrade their efficiency and service levels. The transportation software veteran, responsible for one of the industry’s most successful TMS platforms, joins the show to discuss why trucking companies of all sizes should use this softer freight market to better understand freight lanes, learn more about generative AI, brush up on cybersecurity best practices, and spend more time with customers. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 124: How Can Connectivity Create a More Efficient Supply Chain?
Adopt new tech, and you’ll run a more efficient operation ... right? But what happens when your trucking tech stack becomes unmanageable? With copious amounts of data sitting in different silos and redundant in-cab hardware, fleets are finding it difficult to keep their tech stack streamlined and efficient. In this episode, we ask, how can we cut down on these redundancies? How can carriers, shippers and logistics companies better connect these disparate data streams and work together more efficiently? To get answers, we talk with Trimble CEO Rob Painter to discuss the company’s continued investment in the freight transportation industry and its vision for a more connected supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 123: What Does It Take to Become the Best Technician in the Country?
To be a successful fleet technician, you not only need to diagnose and fix various problems with engines, transmissions, brakes, steering and suspensions, but also the determination to silence the bangs and clangs and hone in on the mechanical detail of a 60,000-pound machine. At this year's ATA TMCSuperTech, the nation's premier skills competition for commercial vehicle technicians, a room full of 418 left-brainers did just that — showing that they had the stuff to be special. What did the experts see in this year's field? What needs were the most surprising? Which skills stood out from the rest? Let's find out with those who proctored the exam, Technology and Maintenance Council Chairman Todd Cotier and Mark Zachos, president of DG Technologies. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 122: Inside the List: What Does It Take to be America's Greatest Truck Driver?
Is UPS' Gragg Wilson America's greatest truck driver? The new National Truck Driving Championships' grand champion has managed to survive the grueling, four-day gauntlet of skills competitions and tests to achieve the industry's most vaunted prize. In 37 years on the road, he has learned how to do the hard, labor-intensive job of truck driving for one of the nation's largest fleets just as successfully. In this special edition of RoadSigns, Wilson takes us through the competition's course, successful driving practices and how to attract new drivers. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 121: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 100 Private Carriers List
How much should a loaf of bread cost? How about a dress shirt? Or a gallon of gas? The cost of goods is subject to their respective levels of supply and demand. With today's strong consumer demand, private motor carriers are adapting — increasing tractor counts by the thousands, optimizing efficiency, improving asset utilization — and creating value for the end consumer. In this episode, Transport Topics' Seth Clevenger, Michael Freeze and Mike Senatore dissect private carrier operations — how fleets are adapting to this new, softened market and what it takes to be successful amid new mergers and increased consumer spending. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 120: Roundabout: What Does the Future of the Internal Combustion Engine Look Like in Commercial Trucking?
According to fleet executives, as well as maintenance managers, the death of the internal combustion engine may have been greatly exaggerated in spite of the excitement about electric powertrains. In fact, a panel in the House recently approved a bill that would block efforts meant to prevent the sale of internal combustion engines. We wonder, though, how long until sustainability goals challenge the predominance of internal combustion engines? What solutions are being explored to make diesel engines more efficient and compatible with alternative fuels? And, how can fleets prepare for a potential future with an entirely new driving force? To find answers, we bring in Ryan Manthiri, project leader at Shell Global Solutions, and Michael Grahe, head of operations at Navistar. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 119: Roundabout: How Has the Trucking Industry Become So 'Preventive' and 'Predictive' in 2023?
Quick! Can you explain the differences between predictive maintenance and preventive maintenance? Those who can usually save their heavy-duty truck fleets a lot of money and get a lot of kudos. Those who can’t? Well … Transport Topics RoadSigns host Michael Freeze has you covered. In this episode, he clarifies the differences between predictive and preventive. He gives fresh commentary on everything from how enhanced connectivity boosts your preventive maintenance plans to what predictive possibilities AI can offer your shop. Here come the clarity, the kudos and the savings! Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 118: How Can Third-Party Services Assist Growing Trucking Companies?
Finance is about the money you make, compliance is about the money you keep — if you follow the rules, the money you make will be the money you keep. Whether a motor carrier is expanding or not, keeping up with regulatory compliance rules and back-office maintenance can be expensive, confusing and hard to follow. In this episode, we examine the perks of outsourcing these costly tasks to designated specialists who can help companies stay on track with compliance regulation and business operations. How effective have these services proved to be? Let's find out with compliance guru Michael Precia, president and CEO of Fleetworthy Solutions, and back-office aficionado Dan Rutherford, lead CFO of logistics & transportation industries with Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 117: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 100 For-Hire Carriers
Despite a softer freight market, the largest trucking companies in North America managed to grow their businesses last year even as spot market rates dropped, truck capacity loosened and bargaining power swung back toward shippers. In the face of these challenges, how were the top players in trucking able to stay on top? What acquisitions and strategies proved to be successful? And how can you learn from their success stories to better your trucking business? In this episode, the makers of Transport Topics’ updated Top 100 For-Hire Carriers list examine trucking’s shifting business environment — and what it means for the supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 116: How Can In-Cab Technology and Coaching Help Drivers Reach Their Full Potential?
Your trucking business success depends on who you have at the wheel. The right truck driver in the right seat at the right time could mean everything for fuel economy and risk profile. All-star drivers focus on fundamentals; they tend to be tenacious, disciplined and hardworking. In fact, they are very likely to be running your loads already. Identifying them, Kriska’s Guy Broderick tells us, requires a lot of coaching know-how and a little help from today’s in-cab technologies. In this special edition of RoadSigns, Broderick shows how he successfully combined data reports and a simple understanding of human nature to become one of the best driver coaches in North America. Better, he brings these winning ways to you. Want to help your drivers to succeed behind the wheel? Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 115: How Can Predictive Analytics Help Fleets Improve Driver Safety?
Driver safety is pivotal for trucking companies, especially in a time when roadway crashes are at an all-time high. Determining dangerous driving behavior and predicting accidents is key to making roadways a safer space for drivers. Tapping into a variety of data sources, predictive analytics software and scoring driver practices helps to reduce guesswork. What will this new, predictive technology reveal? Will it help fleet managers discover behavior patterns in drivers? Are drivers on board with data-backed criticism? Hayden Cardiff, co-founder and chief innovation officer of Idelic, has the answers in this episode. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 114: How Can Trucking Navigate the Road to Net-Zero Emissions?
In 2018, Peter Voorhoeve became the president of Volvo Trucks North America. Since then he has overseen the rollout of Volvo's VNR Electric model and zero-emission initiatives such as the Volvo LIGHTS project, a union of public and private stakeholders creating a realistic ecosystem for battery-electric trucks. What will it take to make electric vehicles successful in the trucking industry? Is the North American electric grid ready for battery-powered commercial trucks? Let's find out. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 113: Can Outsourcing Business Functions Make Fleets More Efficient?
In this post-COVID era, where freight market fluctuations and staffing issues loom, trucking companies must find creative ways to keep up. For many, keeping up means looking for outside help for those arduous, nonfreight-related tasks. Today's trucking decision-makers employ professional specialists who handle tasks like freight billing, document management and call-center support. Globally, businesses of all types spent nearly $700 billion on outsourcing and shared services in 2022, according to a Deloitte study. They seem to believe that business function outsourcing can reduce operating costs, enable staffing flexibility and save time. But does it? How efficient are fleets with outsourcing business services? And how well have they managed the transition between in-house and outsourced teams? In this episode we find answers with Chad Crotty, vice president of sales at DDC FPO Solutions. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 112: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 100 Logistics Companies
Destiny (and orders) fulfilled. Third-party logistics providers expanded their share of the freight market during the supply chain challenges and surging demand brought on by the pandemic. Now, in 2023, the most profitable third-party logistics companies are more collaborative, more attuned to the fast-changing market demands and more technologically prepared than they have ever been. In fact, they are brokering, forwarding, storing, processing and tracking freight so much more efficiently that forecasters expect the global 3PL market to grow significantly during the next five years. What does this growth mean for you and your business? How will this 3PL evolution impact the supply chain at large? And what does all of this mean for how freight is shipped and orders are fulfilled today? Find out in this special 'Inside The List' episode, featuring the Transport Topics 2023 Top 100 largest logistics companies. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 111: Can Connected Truck Data Produce Smarter Maintenance Plans?
Class 8 truck dealers are taking a new approach to customer service — they are implementing an adaptive, dealer-managed service plan that is paired with enhanced connectivity to cover all fleet preventative maintenance. Expanded visibility allows dealers to analyze a fleet’s needs, empowering their customers to make the right maintenance decisions. How? What factors feed the data to make these right decisions? Will this consulting approach to truck maintenance stick around and encourage other truck sellers to do the same? Find out with Mike Furst, director of contract service and business technology solutions at Volvo Trucks North America. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
