8 Tools To Level Up Your Trucking Business

Most first-time truck owners and drivers give up on their business before it has a chance to succeed. Because they’re juggling too many roles at the same time, they feel like something is always in their way. On occasion, it seems as though there isn’t enough time in the day to get things done. 

The digital landscape is constantly changing. No doubt having a game plan is more important than ever. It’s no longer enough to just keep doing what you’ve been doing. In fact, staying stagnant could be your company’s worst nightmare. 

If you want to remain competitive and thrive in this new era, you need to adapt and adopt new strategies. The key is identifying the tools that will best help you achieve your goals. Read on to discover eight helpful tools that will level up your trucking business:

   1. Internet-Based Dispatching Service

An Internet-based dispatching service can help you manage your freight and dispatch your drivers more effectively. It’s essentially a freight brokerage and logistics company all in one. A good dispatching service can help you source and book freight, schedule drivers, and track your truck loads. With these out of your hands, you can have more time to focus on the more critical aspects of your business. 

When looking for a company, consider one that has a good reputation and has been in business for a while. You also want to make sure they offer the services you need. An Internet-based dispatch service will cost you a few thousand dollars monthly, but it’s worth it.

   2. Road Conditions Monitoring App

The road conditions monitoring app will keep you up to date on everything from weather forecasts to road closures. You can set up notifications for areas that you travel often. This is particularly helpful if you haul a lot of semi-trucks and trailers. The road conditions monitoring app will help you minimize your downtime. With this app’s information, you can be back on the road soon after a weather event or road closure. Although a good app will cost you a few dollars per month, it’s not an investment you’ll regret making.

  3. GPS Tracker

A GPS tracker for your truck will help you stay on top of your business. It gives you a better understanding of your routes. Although it can’t automatically take care of all your business issues, it will provide valuable data if there is a problem with road passages. 

Additionally, the information it provides can help you identify opportunities to improve your routes, save on fuel, and increase productivity. 

Plus, a GPS tracker could come in handy if you needed to use your insurance. It can help you prove that the accident wasn’t your fault.

  4. An ELD (Electronic Logging Device)

An electronic log book is required by law. There’re also many reasons why you should invest in one. 

First, it will keep track of your miles and help you keep an accurate log of your hours. That way, you can avoid fines and keep your business legal.

Secondly, it’s helpful because it can streamline the process of filling out your logs and lets you keep your mind on the road. Unlike a GPS, an ELD is all about logging and tracking your hours, routes, and break times. It’ll automatically record your data after you set it up. You don’t have to agonize about missing anything. 

A good ELD will set you back a few hundred dollars, just like the internet-based dispatching app, but it’s worthwhile. That’s because you ought to stay on top of your logs and follow DOT regulations.

   5. Fleet Management Tool

A fleet management tool will help you manage your trucks and their maintenance schedules. You can also use it to track your driver’s hours. This will make it easier to stay compliant and supervise your fleet.

You can also use it to track the cost of maintenance and repairs. This will give you data that you can use to make decisions. For example, you can use it to see which repairs are more common and decide whether or not to invest in preventative measures. 

   6.Remote Employee Tracking Tools

Remote employee tracking tools allow you to monitor the hours and productivity of your team members. This will give you the data you need to make adjustments and improve their performance. 

If you have employees who work remotely, these tools are a must-have. They will allow you to measure their work rate and ensure they stay on task. 

There are a variety of remote team member tracking apps out there. You can choose from among the many different types of tools.

   7. Trucking-Focused CRM

A trucking-focused CRM will help you manage your sales and lead the follow-up process. It will help you stay organized and on top of your business. Moreover, this will give you the data you need to make the necessary changes to improve your sales process.

Many CRMs are designed for businesses of all sizes and industries. If you’re just starting out, finding a CRM tailored to trucking can be challenging. However, you can always ask businesses that are experts in this field for assistance. CRMs can help you save time and make your business more efficient.

   8.Weight Scale Finder

The thing about running any kind of business is that you want to be compliant. But because of the nature of the truck business, it’s easy to get caught off guard when it comes to your truckload being overweight. It’s especially true when entering a new state. 

To avoid such inconveniences, you want to find a weight scale finder. It will help you access the nearest scale anywhere quickly. It doesn’t matter if it’s a big city or a small town. As long as there’s a truck stop, you will be sure to find a weight scale.

Bottom Line

Owning and driving a truck is a dream for many people. However, it can be challenging to get into the industry. Learning everything you need to know is a priority, especially if you’re new to the field. Fortunately, technology can help you level up your trucking business. If you’re just starting, you can use these tools to help you stay organized and on top of your business. The apps can help you save time and make more money. You can then use your money to invest in better equipment, hire more employees, and improve your business.