Oct 31, 2023

The Power of TMS and Load Board Integration in Maximizing Freight Brokerage Efficiency

Freight brokers play a crucial role in connecting shippers with carriers, ensuring goods move swiftly and smoothly from one point to another. With the boom in online shopping, especially during the global pandemic, there has been an increasing demand for efficient freight transportation.

To streamline their operations and improve their capacity to move freight quickly, many freight brokers employ Transportation Management Systems (TMSs) to source and manage their carriers. However, the importance of integrating these TMSs with load boards cannot be overstated.

Let’s look into the significance of TMS and load board integrations in the freight industry, emphasizing their potential to provide value-added benefits to brokers.

The Role of TMS in Freight Brokerage

TMSs have revolutionized the freight brokerage industry. As the center of operations for freight brokers, TMSs enable brokers to efficiently manage and monitor shipments, carriers, and customers. TMSs offer features like order management, cargo tracking, and delivery planning, making them indispensable tools for brokers seeking to increase efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Some popular TMSs include McLeod, Samsara, MercuryGate, Aljex, 3PL Systems, Oracle, PCS, and Transport Pro, all of which are widely used and offer some kind of load-sourcing option for their users. However, what many brokers may not realize is that these TMSs can be further empowered by integrating them with multiple load boards.

Unlocking Greater Capacity through Load Board Integrations

Load boards are web-based platforms where shippers or brokers can post available loads, and carriers search for and book loads that match their availability. By integrating their TMS with load boards, brokers can significantly expand their reach and gain access to an expanded network of carriers. This integration allows brokers to source carriers quickly and efficiently, resulting in faster freight movement, happy customers and increased profitability.

The Benefits of TMS and Load Board Integrations

Expanded Capacity: Perhaps the most evident advantage of TMS and load board integrations is the expanded capacity. Through the load boards, brokers can tap into a vast pool of carriers, ensuring they never face a shortage of options to move freight. This capacity expansion is vital during times of high demand when securing reliable carriers can be very challenging.

Streamlined Operations: The integration between platforms can lead to streamlined and simplified operations, as brokers no longer need to switch between multiple platforms to source carriers. Instead, they can access load board information directly from their TMS, saving time and effort.

Real-Time Updates: Integrations also mean that real-time updates on load availability and carrier status can be viewed directly via the TMS. Brokers can make informed decisions quickly, resulting in faster response times and better customer service.

Enhanced Visibility: TMS and load board integration also results in improved visibility into the entire freight movement process. Brokers can track shipments, monitor carrier performance, and analyze data effortlessly directly from their TMS, leading to better decision-making.

Cost Efficiency: In many cases, load board integrations do not incur additional costs for TMS providers or users. The integration costs are often shouldered by the load board, making it a cost-effective solution for brokers.

Trucker Path’s Integration with Leading TMSs

Most leading TMS providers offer seamless integration options with popular load boards, making it easy for brokers to connect and expand their capabilities. Trucker Path integrates with many popular TMSs, such as McLeod, Transport Pro, 3PL Systems, Aljex, MercuryGate, and many others. These integrations give brokers direct access to the nearly one million carriers who rely on the Trucker Path app.

Final Thoughts

The importance of TMS and load board integrations in the freight industry cannot be emphasized enough. It is a win-win situation for both brokers and TMS providers. Brokers gain access to a wider pool of carriers, enabling them to move freight more efficiently and profitably. TMS providers are able to offer a value-added service to their broker customers without incurring significant integration costs.

All in all, TMSs should, and often do, wholeheartedly embrace load board integrations as an essential component of their offerings. It is a strategic move that not only enhances the competitiveness of their broker customers but also solidifies the position of TMS providers as a true partner in the fast-paced and ever-evolving freight industry.

Women in Motion and Trucker Path Join Forces to Enhance Safety and Convenience at Truck Stops Austin, Texas – Today, American Trucking Associations' Women in Motion proudly announces a strategic partnership with Trucker Path, a significant stride towards addressing and improving the concerns of women while on the road. “ATA is committed to bringing more women into our industry and addressing their concerns. This partnership between Women in Motion and Trucker Path is a way to address one of the persistent concerns women in trucking express – safety,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “Helping women drivers identify truck parking facilities with essential amenities like well-lit parking, bathroom access and on-site security will play a role in addressing this longtime challenge for our industry.” Through this new partnership with Women in Motion, Trucker Path will be adding a number of features to its existing mobile app that will help women identify and locate facilities that have seven specific features: • Lighted parking • Lighted bathroom access • Lighted lounge areas • Lighted shower facilities with 24/7 access • Lighted laundry facilities with 24/7 access • Round-the-clock maintenance • Onsite security Facilities with all seven will be marked with the Women in Motion logo. Drivers will be able to provide updates on the condition of these amenities through the Trucker Path mobile app. “We are thrilled to introduce this innovative feature to our platform, a decision that deeply resonates with our commitment to inclusivity,” said Trucker Path CMO Chris Oliver. “Through our platform, women can seamlessly identify stops along their routes offering amenities catering to their needs, all while accessing real-time information on parking availability. Moreover, they can contribute valuable comments and reviews that will serve as a valuable resource for fellow women drivers. We eagerly anticipate our continued growth alongside Women in Motion as we collectively endeavor to make our industry more inclusive and welcoming for all.” “Women in Motion and ATA have made increasing access to safe truck parking a primary mission, so helping women find those facilities while on the road is the next logical step in our furthering that mission,” said Women in Motion Co-Chair Sarah Rajtik, ATA Executive Vice President of Human Resources, Operations and Industry Affairs. “We’re proud to announce this partnership here, and we are looking forward to continuing our important work to make the trucking industry safer and more inclusive.” To learn more about Women in Motion, visit <a href="https://www.trucking.org/WomenInMotion">https://www.trucking.org/WomenInMotion.</a> <a href="https://www.trucking.org/">American Trucking Associations</a> is the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation’s freight. Follow ATA on <a href="https://twitter.com/TRUCKINGdotORG">Twitter</a> or on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/truckingdotorg/">Facebook</a>. <a href="https://truckingmovesamerica.com/">Trucking Moves America Forward</a> Contact: Sean McNally 703-838-1995

Oct 15, 2023

Safe Alternatives for Truckers’ Pain Management Every job has its pros and cons, which also applies to truck driving. The main demerit of any trucking job is physical – the discomfort and pain that often come with the countless hours spent sitting in the cab. Because different parts of a trucker's body are exposed to various pains, it is important to find safe and effective alternatives for pain management. Let’s delve further into the more common physical pains a trucker is exposed to and how to manage each safely. Common Pain Concerns Many Truckers Face Working in an environment that requires you to sit for long hours has to have some effects on your body. This is the plight of many truckers. Some of the pain concerns include: ● Back and Neck Pain There is an alarmingly high number of truckers who suffer from back pain. Neck and lower back pain are more common because truckers sit for extended periods. Other causes include using improper lifting techniques and poor posture while driving. ● Wrist Pain Truckers suffer from wrist and hand pain because of the repetitive and extended pressure applied to their nerves. This discomfort is further exaggerated by keeping the wrist in one position as you drive and many times can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. ● Shoulder Pain Driving for long hours puts truckers at risk of shoulder pains and irritations, including bicep tendonitis and rotator cuff injuries. ● Headaches Truck drivers can experience severe headaches due to tension on the nerves at the base of their skull. Tension can be created by a number of factors including the daily task of managing the road safely. Luckily, all these pains are manageable and treatable with the right methods. How to Manage Pain While Working Long Hours We have already established that a trucker is more susceptible to various pains due to the nature of their work. That is why they need to find ways to manage the pain before taking medication. The few things they can include in their daily routine to help with different pains include: ● Lumbar Support Pillow Investing in a good quality lumbar support pillow will go a long way in preventing the dreaded back pain. Truckers can couple this with a good seat cushion to enhance comfort and promote good posture. ● Mirror Positioning Truckers that ensure their mirrors are positioned correctly are less likely to suffer from neck strain. <a href="https://thechilterncentre.co.uk/2019/12/03/driving-posture-do-you-sit-correctly-in-your-car/">Chiltern Health Centre</a> suggests all drivers should “…stretch yourself up and make your spine as tall as possible sitting in an ideal posture. Set the rearview mirror so you can just about see the traffic behind you. This will help to correct your posture every time you look in your rearview mirror, because if you slouch you will not be able to use the rearview mirror.” Mirror positioning is a simple solution to managing core, back, and neck pain. ● Wrist Braces and Stretches By wearing a wrist brace, truckers can ensure their wrist is not in one position for too long. The other great way is to stretch the hand and wrist regularly. Flexion stretches, lifts, and hand squeezes done frequently have also proven to alleviate wrist discomfort. ● Taking Regular Breaks and Sleep Sometimes, acting before it strikes is the best way to prevent pain. Truckers who take breaks, make the most of their down time, focus on getting good rest and stretching can help release built-up tension. Adequate rest is crucial in pain management, especially for truckers. Sleeping on a mattress and pillow that provides extra support to the neck, spine, and legs is also advisable. Safe Alternatives for Pain Management It is always a good idea to try pain management methods with fewer side effects. Here are some safer alternatives for pain relief that truckers can use: ● Exercise A few stretches before and after driving around for hours can do wonders in keeping pain in check. Truckers are advised to try different forms of exercise to reduce pain incidences. Some workouts drivers can try include stretching, bending, and pelvic lifts. Be sure not to overexert with the exercises because it could lead to more damage. ● Ice and Heat Packs A simple yet highly effective pain management alternative is using ice and heat before and after a shift. Physicians recommend that truckers place cold packs on sore areas after a shift to soothe the nerves and reduce irritations. Afterward, they can put a heat pack to relax the affected area. ● Pain Relievers Truckers can sometimes do all the right exercises and preventative measures but still fall short in managing their body aches. It is wise to try different pain-relieving medications to see which works best for you. You can use topical creams and gels, which work by penetrating the skin. Truckers can use <a href="https://www.thecbdistillery.com/blog/how-to-take-cbd-oil-a-beginners-guide/">THC-free CBD oil</a> for even faster pain relief, which works better and has longer-lasting effects. Being pain-free can be a reality for truckers if they adhere to the recommendations listed above. However, in the event self-administered care does not produce adequate results, it is recommended drivers pursue advice from a doctor. Free <a href="https://www.smartandsimple.com/partners/trucker-path/">teleheath options</a> are available that truckers can consider.

Sep 19, 2023

Industry Providers Sponsor Second Annual National Truck Driver Appreciation Sweepstakes Recognition and support for U.S. truck drivers expands to include four weekly drawings and a Grand Prize drawing PHOENIX – July 17, 2023 – Trucker Path today announced the second annual National Truck Driver Appreciation (NTDA) Sweepstakes. The NTDA Sweepstakes will hold weekly drawings for four weeks, revealing the Grand Prize winner on September 13, 2023 during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. “The National Truck Driver Appreciation Sweepstakes enables active U.S. truck drivers to register to win valuable prizes that cater to their everyday wants and needs,” said Chris Oliver, CMO at Trucker Path. “This unique program gives key sponsors the opportunity to show their appreciation for the hard work, dedication and contributions of all U.S. commercial truck drivers, who represent a critical part of the supply chain delivering goods that all U.S. citizens depend on.” “Trucker Path is pleased to join with The Trucker Media Group, Sheetz, Motel 6 and Exxon and Mobil stations to honor and thank truck drivers for the work they do every day,” Oliver continued. “This year we decided to extend the sweepstakes period to reach more drivers and build excitement for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.” The NTDA Sweepstakes is open for registration beginning July 17th for active U.S. truck drivers with a valid commercial driver’s license. Drawings will be held weekly from July 26th – August 16th The sweepstakes ends on August 27th. A licensed third-party sweepstakes company will randomly select winners for weekly and grand prizes. The weekly prizes include $500 in Sheetz fuel cards and five free nights at any Motel 6 in the U.S. The grand prize winner will receive $3,000 in Sheetz fuel cards, 30 free nights at any Motel 6 in the U.S., and $500 in Exxon and Mobil station fuel cards. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week runs from September 10 – 16, 2023. The annual celebration recognizes the significant contributions of the millions of professional truck drivers nationwide who safely and securely deliver essential goods and transport billions of tons of freight every year. Truckers interested in entering the 2023 NTDA Sweepstakes can visit <a href="http://ntda.sweeppea.com">http://ntda.sweeppea.com</a>. About Trucker Path Phoenix-based Trucker Path is the provider of a wide range of truck driver-centric mobility products. Its 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 available parking, fuel prices, weigh station status, 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 <a href="http://www.truckerpath.com">www.truckerpath.com</a>. Media Contact: Susan Fall LaunchIt Public Relations 858-490-1050 susan@launchitpr.com

Jul 18, 2023