Oct 26, 2023

Food Purchasing Habits at Truck Stops

We surveyed our community of truck drivers to learn about their food purchases at truck stops.

Trucker Path Provides Quick Access to Spot Cargo Insurance for App Users Powered by MiKargo247, all-risk coverage is now available as single trip policies and per load pricing PHOENIX – September 26, 2023 – Trucker Path, a subsidiary of leading global SaaS provider, Moatable, Inc. (NYSE: MTBL) and the most comprehensive and relied upon mobile app for North American truckers, today announced that it continues to expand its Trucker Path Marketplace offering with spot cargo insurance powered by MiKargo247. Using the Trucker Path Marketplace, North American truckers can have MiKargo247’s all-risk coverage cargo insurance for up to $1 million per load. According to <a href="https://www.dat.com/blog/transportation-tuesday-tip-7-avoid-paying-out-of-pocket-for-under-or-uninsured-cargo">DAT</a>, it is estimated that up to 90% of cargo on the road is underinsured or not insured at all. MiKargo247 understands from their underwriters that this represents $15+ billion in damages that cannot be recovered. The partnership between Trucker Path and MiKargo247 allows drivers and owner operators to fully participate in the freight market by meeting insurance requirements and having reliable protection. “With spot cargo insurance powered by MiKargo247, the Trucker Path community has instant access to policies that can protect their loads beyond standard coverage,” said Chris Oliver, CMO at Trucker Path. “With these single trip policies and per load pricing, drivers and owner-operators can control their costs by choosing which loads to insure, and coverage amounts. This addition to the Trucker Path Marketplace supports truckers with an essential product that is easy to access, helps them operate more cost effectively, and provides peace-of-mind knowing their cargo is properly insured.” Following the Trucker Path Marketplace model of making business easier for the driving community, obtaining coverage is a simple click on on the spot cargo insurance icon in the Trucker Path Marketpace and then entering cargo information. Per-trip spot cargo insurance offered by MiKargo247 covers all risks and provides broader coverage for commodities typically excluded by other cargo policies. “MiKargo247 insurthech provides end-to-end spot cargo insurance as a readily-accessible solution for Trucker Path users is a natural fit and solution,” said Michele McGinnis, co-founder and CEO at MiKargo247. “Having the ability to include cargo protection as part of the trip planning process offers an added convenience for drivers so they can focus on their journey.” Benefits of spot cargo insurance powered by MiKargo247 to the Trucker Path community include: • Access to higher paying loads that need higher cargo coverage • Access to commoditities typically excluded by standard cargo policies • Quotes are generated in seconds and binding coverage can be issued in less than two minutes • No waiting for agent or underwriter approval of commodity and limit • No sign-up or subscription is required • Simple online claim service The insurer also provides phone, email and text customer support, and online claim reporting services. MiKargo247 is underwritten by Roanoke Insurance Group Inc. with underwriting authority provided by A-Rated Munich Re Syndicate Ltd. – Syndicate 457 at Lloyd’s of London. Carriers interested in learning more about Trucker Path’s spot cargo insurance offering powered by MiKargo247 can visit www.mikargo247.com/truckerpath/. About Trucker Path Phoenix-based Trucker Path is the provider of a wide range of truck driver-centric mobility products. A subsidiary of leading global SaaS provider, Moatable, Inc. (NYSE: <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/moatable-announces-name-change-from-renren-inc-to-moatable-inc-301856263.html#financial-modal">MTBL</a>),the Trucker Path app is currently in use by nearly 1 million professional truck drivers. Offering best-in-class navigation with truck-optimized routing, the Trucker Path app also provides access to vital up-to-date information about truck stops, real-time parking availability, fuel prices, weigh station statuses, and truck scales and wash locations. The company also offers TruckLoads, a digital freight exchange that connects drivers, carriers and brokers; and COMMAND™, the industry’s first and only Operations & Driver Relationship (ODR) platform that provides small to mid-size fleets with the necessary driver and TMS technologies to successfully run a fleet. For more information, visit www.truckerpath.com. Media Contact: Susan Fall LaunchIt Public Relations 858-490-1050 susan@launchitpr.com

Sep 26, 2023

Digitalization In Logistics: Impact On Efficiency, Sustainability, And Customer Experience The logistics industry, a vital part of the global economy, serves as the backbone of trade and commerce. Its role has only grown in importance with the rise of e-commerce and a more globalized economy. Today, digitalization is emerging as a potent force in logistics, with the potential to revolutionize the industry. It's reshaping operations, enhancing efficiencies, promoting sustainability, and transforming customer experiences. This article presents an in-depth exploration of these transformations, investigating how digitalization affects these critical facets of the logistics industry. Digitalization and Efficiency in Logistics Efficiency is the lifeblood of logistics. It's what allows goods to move smoothly, reliably, and cost-effectively. With digitalization, the industry has found new ways to enhance efficiency. Real-time tracking systems, for example, provide unprecedented insights into routing and delivery times. By analyzing traffic and weather data, these systems allow logistics operators to preempt delays, find the best routes, and guarantee timely deliveries. The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the digital logistics landscape is another crucial efficiency driver. AI-powered automation is streamlining logistics processes, minimizing human error, and boosting productivity. AI can predict maintenance requirements for vehicles or warehouse machinery, reducing downtime and preventing costly breakdowns. Advanced analytics is another critical component of digitalization in logistics, providing powerful tools for decision-making and strategy formulation. Advanced analytics can scrutinize historical and real-time data, identify patterns, predict trends, and provide actionable insights for logistics providers. This data-driven approach can lead to strategic decisions that boost efficiency, save costs, and enhance competitiveness. To illustrate, let's consider how a <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/improving-warehouse-operations-digitally">digital twin can boost efficiency</a>. By using a digital warehouse-design approach, companies simulated various scenarios to optimize warehousing, kitting, and value-added operations. The outcome was a significant reduction in both capital expenditures (capex) and operating expenses. Digitalization and Sustainability in Logistics Sustainability is fast becoming a non-negotiable in logistics. With climate change and environmental concerns taking center stage, the industry is under mounting pressure to minimize its environmental footprint — and digitalization offers innovative solutions to achieve this goal. One way digital tools contribute to sustainability is by <a href="https://truckerpath.com/trucker-path-app/truck-gps/">improving route planning and fuel efficiency</a>. By identifying the shortest and most efficient routes, logistics providers can reduce fuel consumption and limit carbon emissions. Additionally, predictive analytics can forecast potential issues like vehicle breakdowns that would increase emissions and waste resources. Digital technology is also encouraging the transition to green logistics. For example, digital tools can help companies measure their carbon footprint, allowing them to set and achieve sustainability goals. Moreover, with the help of advanced analytics, companies can optimize their operations to become <a href="https://www.saloodo.com/blog/digital-logistics-transformation-sustainability/">more environmentally friendly</a>. Lastly, digitalization is enabling new, sustainable business models. Returns management apps and automated inventory solutions can both aid in waste reduction and promote recycling. The emergence of green and reverse logistics models also illustrates the transformative potential of digitalization in the pursuit of sustainability. Digitalization and Customer Experience in Logistics Customer experience is, without a doubt, a defining competitive parameter in almost any industry. Thanks to digitalization, logistics providers can now offer superior services, timely delivery, and enhanced communication with their customers. Digital tools have significantly improved communication between companies and customers. Online platforms and mobile apps have enabled customers to track their orders in real time, get instant updates, and communicate with logistics providers easily. This transparency fosters trust, enhances customer satisfaction, and is basically redefining <a href="https://redstagfulfillment.com/3pl-definition-process-resources/">what is a 3PL</a>. Digital tools are also simplifying logistics processes for customers. For instance, online platforms allow customers to easily place orders, make payments, and arrange deliveries. In the age of e-commerce, such ease of use can be a decisive factor for customers when choosing a logistics provider. A case in point is DHL, a global logistics company that has <a href="https://www.dhl.com/discover/en-ph/logistics-advice/logistics-insights/Logistics-4-0-How-is-DHL-Transforming-its-Operations-With-Digitalisation">redefined customer experience through digitalization</a>. With the help of various digital tools, DHL has streamlined processes, improved operations, and enhanced communication with its customers. These efforts resulted in increased transparency, real-time updates, and improved overall customer satisfaction. Challenges and Opportunities with Digitalization in Logistics Digitalization, despite its tremendous potential, brings along a unique set of challenges that logistics companies must effectively manage to fully capitalize on its benefits. Here's a snapshot of some of these challenges: ● Data security: As logistics companies become more reliant on digital tools and technologies, they expose themselves to an increased risk of cyberattacks and data breaches. The situation mandates the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data. ● Continuous adaptation: The technology landscape is constantly evolving, with new tools and solutions emerging at a breakneck pace. To stay competitive, logistics companies must be proactive, continuously updating their technological capabilities, upskilling employees, and fostering a culture of innovation. ● Return on investment: The cost of digital transformation can be high, and it can take time for companies to see a return on their investment. Businesses need to be strategic about what technologies they invest in, and have a clear plan for how these technologies will generate a return. On the flip side, digitalization also opens up numerous opportunities for various stakeholders in the industry. The ability to make the best of technology can lead to enhanced operations, superior services, and business growth. Here are some of these opportunities: ● Efficiency enhancement: Technologies such as real-time tracking and AI can revolutionize operations for a wide range of stakeholders. Truck drivers, for instance, can <a href="https://www.transportpro.net/">significantly improve their efficiency</a> by using these tools. ● Effective connection: Digital platforms provide freight brokers with a unique ability to efficiently connect shippers and carriers, thereby improving services and creating new business opportunities. ● Data-driven decision making: Digital tools enable access to vast amounts of data that can be used to make informed, strategic decisions. This could range from route optimization based on real-time traffic data to predictive vehicle maintenance based on AI algorithms. The increasingly competitive landscape of the logistics industry makes the adoption of digitalization not just beneficial but crucial. Companies that can adapt swiftly and intelligently to incorporate digitalization into their business model will hold a competitive edge. Parting Thoughts As we've explored, digitalization is a game-changer in the logistics industry, acting as a cornerstone for profound transformation across efficiency, sustainability, and customer experience. Its influence is far-reaching, altering the way we approach logistics by infusing smarter, more sustainable, and more customer-centric solutions into daily operations. This digital momentum is unstoppable. The key is understanding the opportunities and being proactive to integrate these technologies into your operations. The takeaway? Embrace digitalization as your ally. By doing so, you will not only navigate the challenges ahead but also leverage digitalization's full potential — creating a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry. Source: <a href="https://redstagfulfillment.com/">Red Stag Fulfillment</a> ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Many thanks to our guest contributor, Alex Selwitz, for authoring this blog post! <a href="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2023/07/Alex-Photo.png"><img src="https://truckerpath.com/uploads/2023/07/Alex-Photo.png" alt="" width="206" height="205" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-7236" /></a> Alex Selwitz is the Director of SEO for <a href="https://redstagfulfillment.com/">Red Stag Fulfillment</a>, an eCommerce fulfillment warehouse that was born out of eCommerce. He has years of experience in eCommerce and digital marketing. In his free time, Alex enjoys playing guitar and learning about new trends in the digital world.

Jul 13, 2023

An Overview of Alternative Fuel Trucks and How They Are Revolutionizing the Trucking Industry The trucking industry, which plays a vital role in the global economy in transporting goods across vast distances, is facing a significant challenge. With the rising costs of traditional fuels, insurance and maintenance, the cost of operating a truck is <a href="https://truckingresearch.org/2023/06/an-analysis-of-the-operational-costs-of-trucking-2023-update/">increasing year over year</a>. Among these increasing expenses, <a href="https://www.ttnews.com/articles/atri-cost-trucking?utm_source=logisticsB&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=newsletter&mktId=15533167&mkt_tok=OTA1LUJCVy04NzYAAAGMh1CMLfQv7GxQJmMyS0ZJK-BumFeZLjbLjHBJphheKHuEDPiQWw9DuYXkPUJ-At2B4nkw2rGloUwNOnotzZeufVHxwLtm50r0lz6sBfE4Bp5QXg">rising fuel costs</a> (53.7% higher than in 2021) are of the biggest concern.. While <a href="https://truckerpath.com/discounted-fuel-deals/">fuel savings programs</a> have emerged, trucking companies are actively seeking sustainable and cost-effective solutions to power their fleets and reduce the cost of trucking. In recent years, alternative fuel trucks have emerged as promising options, offering environmental benefits and reducing operating costs. According to an ATRI report in 2022, <a href="https://www.ttnews.com/articles/atri-cost-trucking?utm_source=logisticsB&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=newsletter&mktId=15533167&mkt_tok=OTA1LUJCVy04NzYAAAGMh1CMLfQv7GxQJmMyS0ZJK-BumFeZLjbLjHBJphheKHuEDPiQWw9DuYXkPUJ-At2B4nkw2rGloUwNOnotzZeufVHxwLtm50r0lz6sBfE4Bp5QXg">8.2% of respondent fleets</a> included at least one truck powered by an alternative fuel source, an increase from 7% in 2021. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular alternative fuel trucks that are transforming the trucking landscape. 1. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Trucks Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks have gained considerable popularity as one of the leading alternatives to conventional diesel-powered vehicles. In fact, they were the most popular alternative fuel option according to the ATRI survey, at 6.2%. <a href="https://www.treehugger.com/what-is-cng-fuel-6502399#:~:text=What%20Are%20CNG%20Vehicles%3F%20Natural%20gas%20vehicles%20are,or%20diesel%20when%20natural%20gas%20is%20not%20available.">CNG</a> is a clean-burning fuel that is abundant and domestically available. It has grown in popularity as the choice of alternative fuel due to low natural gas prices versus high diesel fuel rates. Besides being much cheaper and resulting in lower operating costs for trucking companies, CNG trucks also produce significantly lower emissions than gasoline and diesel trucks, contributing to improved air quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. 2. Battery Electric Trucks Battery electric trucks are another emerging alternative fuel option that holds great potential for the trucking industry. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of the transportation sector significantly. They also deliver a much <a href="https://traton.com/en/newsroom/current-topics/why-the-battery-electric-drive-represents-the-future-for-trucks.html">higher level of fuel efficiency</a> and are also much more cost-effective on long-haul routes. Although battery electric trucks have been slower to gain traction in the heavy-duty trucking market due to the limitations of battery technology (such as range and charging infrastructure),ongoing advancements are rapidly improving their viability. As battery technology improves and charging infrastructure expands, electric trucks are expected to play a crucial role in the future of freight transportation. 3. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Trucks Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) trucks are another alternative fuel option and are fueled by natural gas that has been cooled to a liquid state, making it easier to store and transport. LNG trucks, similar to most alternative fuels, offer environmental benefits by emitting lower levels of greenhouse gases. They also provide longer driving ranges than CNG trucks, making them suitable for long-haul applications. However, the infrastructure for <a href="https://www.energy.gov/fecm/liquefied-natural-gas-lng">producing, storing, and distributing LNG</a> is still developing, which can be a limiting factor in the widespread adoption of these trucks. 4. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks <a href="https://www.baesystems.com/en-us/definition/what-is-a-hydrogen-fuel-cell-truck">Hydrogen fuel cell trucks</a> are at the forefront of cutting-edge technology in the alternative fuel trucking landscape. These trucks use hydrogen gas, which is combined with oxygen from the air in a fuel cell to produce electricity, which powers the vehicle. One major benefit of hydrogen fuel cell trucks is that they produce zero harmful emissions, as the only byproduct of the energy conversion process is water vapor. However, several challenges hinder widespread adoption, including the high cost of hydrogen production and the limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure, due to hydrogen fuel cells being a relatively new technology. However, as technology advances and the hydrogen ecosystem continues to develop, hydrogen fuel cell trucks may soon become a game-changer in the trucking industry. The Trucking Industry is Changing As we speak, the trucking industry is undergoing a transformation as the demand for more sustainable and cost-effective transportation solutions rises. Alternative fuel trucks offer a promising path forward, providing environmentally friendly options to combat rising fuel costs. As technology continues to progress, these next generation options will undoubtedly become more accessible and prevalent, revolutionizing the trucking industry.

Aug 10, 2023