Planning efficient routes can help with arriving at your destination on time as well as saving on fuel costs and driver wages. It also allows companies to boost the number of orders they accept and in turn maximize revenue. Another benefit of optimizing routes include lessening the chances of delayed deliveries.
Route efficiency is defined as the process of improving routes for better optimization and cost-effectiveness. It allows businesses to complete requests for deliveries by factoring driver schedules, distance, time, traffic, and fuel estimates, among other factors. It isn’t always about simply finding the shortest route to take.
On the Road to Better Efficiency
Learning to plan efficient routes for your drivers may take some time. However, it’s important to note that this is a skill worth learning. The benefits can mean big savings for your company in the long run. Here are some things to consider:
Congested Areas
Timing is one of the most important factors when considering an efficient route. That’s why the shortest route may not be the best option. Heavily congested areas, although they may present the shortest distance, may put you behind because of heavy traffic. Whenever you are planning a route, factor in rush hour traffic. It’s best to choose alternative routes that will help you to avoid these areas during certain times. Most GPS navigation systems will help you with this process in real-time.
Road Construction
Seemingly never-ending road construction always appears to be going on in certain areas. When you are planning your trucking routes, try to avoid these roads. You can find out where ongoing construction is happening by researching your state’s department of transportation. There should be a list available for you. If your trucking route is going through multiple states, try to look up your desired route and then check each state’s website to see if you need to plan any alternative routes.
Multiple Stops
Start your route planning by including time for various stops along the route. This depends on how long the trip will take. If it’s more than a few hours your drivers will likely need time for bathroom breaks, eating, and refueling their trucks. If you factor these stops in early, it will help you with determining which route is best to take with efficiency in mind. This will also help you gain a more accurate understanding of when you will arrive at your destination.
Left Turns
Left turns could end up adding more time to your driver’s time. It’s been reported that many accidents happen when turning left against oncoming traffic. It also leads to higher fuel use. It may not be possible to entirely make only right turns during a route; however, it could help to prevent any accidents and any subsequent delays.
Forerunner Insurance: Driving You Toward Success
Make the most out of your business by planning the most efficient routes for your drivers to take. You can also put your business in the best position by having adequate insurance. Forerunner Insurance Group offers comprehensive insurance options to protect your fleet of vehicles. Driving on the roads can come with unexpected dangers. You don’t want accidents to interrupt your company’s operations.
Please contact our team at Forerunner Insurance Group to learn more about what insurance options are available to you. We look forward to working with you and helping your business with its success!
