Dec 06, 2023

Truck Parking Availability: 2021 Versus 2023

We compared truck parking availability in November 2021 to November 2023. Based on the national averages, there appears to be much more available parking now than there was in late 2021.

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, <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/trucker-path-teams-up-with-transport-pro-to-expand-load-visibility-for-drivers-and-fleets/">Transport Pro</a>, <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/trucker-path-and-3pl-systems-offer-single-click-access-to-loads-and-capacity/">3PL Systems</a>, Aljex, <a href="https://truckerpath.com/blog/trucker-path-increases-load-exposure-for-mercurygate-tms-customers/">MercuryGate</a>, 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.

Oct 31, 2023

Create a Business Plan for Trucking as an Owner Operator Starting a successful trucking business in 2024 as an owner-operator can be a profitable venture, but it requires careful planning and a solid business plan. Such a plan is essential for any business startup, including being a truck driver, as it outlines the company's goals, operations, and financial projections. A well-crafted business plan can help secure funding, attract investors, and set your own trucking business on the path to success. You may be able to find a great business plan template by other entrepreneurs out there to act as a roadmap but we will break down some of the key points here. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a small business plan for your trucking business as an owner-operator. Determine Your Business Structure Before you start writing your business plan, you need to determine your business structure. There are several types of business owners, including sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC),and corporation. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to research and determine the best fit for your successful trucking company. Develop Your Executive Summary The executive summary is the first section of your trucking company business plan and should provide an overview of your company and its goals. It should be concise and attention-grabbing, highlighting the most critical aspects of your business plan. This section should include your company's mission statement, business structure, services offered, target market, and financial projections. Describe Your Company In the company description section, you will provide a more detailed overview of your trucking business beyond just your business name. You will describe your business's history, management team, ownership structure, and legal status. You should also highlight your unique selling proposition, the factors that set your business apart from competitors, and how you plan to provide quality services to your potential customers. Outline Your Services In the services section, you will describe the types of trucking services you will offer that will give you a competitive advantage, such as long-haul trucking or local deliveries. You should also detail the types of freight you plan to haul and your operating area. It is crucial to be specific about your services, as this will help you target your social media marketing efforts and attract the right clients. Conduct a Market Analysis A market analysis is a critical component of your business plan, as it helps you understand your industry, target market, and competitors. In this section, you will research and analyze truckers in your industry, identifying trends, growth opportunities, and potential challenges. You will also identify your target market, including the types of clients you plan to serve and their specific needs. Finally, you will conduct a competitive analysis, identifying your competitors and analyzing their strengths and weaknesses. Develop a Sales and Marketing Plan In the sales and marketing strategy section, you will outline your strategy for acquiring and retaining clients. This means how you will find loads on load boards or through a dispatcher to grow your client base. This section should include your pricing strategy, expected profit margin and predicted loss statement, advertising and promotional efforts, and sales goals. It is also essential to outline your bookkeeping, sales process, and include how you will generate leads, qualify prospects, and close sales. Working with a <a href="https://www.tafs.com/">factoring company</a> can also be a beneficial sales tool, as it provides you with access to cash flow and credit check services that can help you grow your business. Outline Your Financial Plan The financial plan is a crucial section of your business plan, as it outlines your company's financial projections and funding requirements. In this section, you will detail your startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue projections. You should also include a cash flow statement, balance sheet, and income statement. It is essential to be realistic and conservative when developing your financial projections, as this will help you attract investors and secure funding. Conclusion As a truck owner operator in the trucking industry, creating a solid business plan is crucial for long-term success. Your business plan should include an executive summary, company description, market analysis, operations plan, marketing plan, and financial projections. It should also take into account the unique challenges of the trucking industry, such as fluctuating fuel costs, competition, and changing regulations. While creating a business plan can seem like a daunting task, there are resources available to help you. A factoring company, for example, can provide valuable assistance in managing cash flow and getting paid on time. Additionally, seeking guidance from industry experts and other successful owner operators can provide insight and inspiration. By taking the time to create a comprehensive business plan, you can set your trucking business up for success and avoid <a href="https://www.tafs.com/why-many-trucking-companies-fail/">common pitfalls</a> that lead to failure. With dedication, hard work, and a solid plan in place, you can achieve your goals as an owner operator in the trucking industry.

Dec 13, 2023

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