July 23, 2024
In the logistics industry, tracking deliveries is essential, but can also be challenging. With so many shipments going out on a daily basis, it can be difficult to stay on top. Especially when you throw in the unexpected obstacles that can cause delays.
Supply chain technology has streamlined tracking processes so much more, allowing consumers and shippers to receive automatic updates and use GPS to know where a shipment is at all times.
However, delays can still occur, and for short haul trucking, this just won’t do. Timeliness is prioritized, but can be jeopardized by factors such as inclement weather, accidents, or traffic congestion. Cargo theft is also a serious issue that makes tracking so crucial.
In this blog post, we share some out-of-the-box ways to track freight effortlessly to save time and money.
Utilize AEI Tags
An easy and high-tech way to keep a tab on moving goods via a long haul truck is by using Automatic Equipment Identification (AEI) tags. These are installed on trucks and railcars that move freight hundreds of miles across the country.
The tags consist of high tech readers that use radio frequencies to scan the tags at checkpoints along the route. The tags provide shippers with real-time data on the products, allowing shippers to keep a close eye on things, even from a far away distance.
Have a Backup Plan Ready
Even the most advanced tracking technology can get stumped. When a shipment gets lost, weather gets furious or road construction causes standstills, it always helps to have a good old fashioned backup plan.
Planning ahead can be a great help, as well as researching the regions where you’ll be traveling. You can see what the weather forecasts have in store, bearing in mind if the seasons come into play.
For example, in Florida it’s important to know when hurricane season is, as this can be a dangerous time to be on the road.
For snow or ice, put in your bid for the adequate equipment ahead of time, before other drivers are clamoring for the same tools you’ll need to take on the weather. You don’t want to end up on a waitlist!
Check towns for road construction schedules, as some have a specific season for construction.
