Best Practices for Combatting Trucking Bottlenecks

Canada has experienced significant population and economic growth over the past decade. Consequently, road congestion has increased, particularly in urban areas, creating delays for freight originating, terminating or moving through these locations. These bottlenecks can significantly slow commercial drivers’ journeys and prolong trucking delivery times, resulting in increased fuel costs and significant time constraints for employers. According to the Canadian Automobile Association, delays from bottlenecks cost approximately $300 million per year.

Fortunately, there are steps trucking employers can take to help combat bottlenecks and minimize the related impacts on their operations. Here are some best practices for employers to keep in mind:

• Adjust driving routes. By analyzing provincial traffic data and using route-planning software, trucking businesses can better optimize their drivers’ journeys, avoiding potential road congestion and promoting greater fuel efficiency.
• Leverage vehicle technology. In addition to utilizing route-planning software, trucking companies can leverage other forms of vehicle technology, such as telematics and advanced navigation systems, to share real-time traffic updates with their drivers and redirect them as needed.
• Consider alternate delivery times. Road congestion isn’t constant. Therefore, it may be useful for trucking businesses to assess traffic peaks and lulls in their particular provinces and establish alternate delivery times based on this information. In doing so, drivers can benefit from minimal bottlenecks and experience smoother journeys. However, trucking businesses should be sure to consult warehouse facilities, shippers and any other essential parties within their supply chains to ensure alternate delivery times won’t cause other complications or substantially increase operational costs.
• Educate drivers. Trucking companies should frequently train their drivers on how to properly navigate traffic conditions and avoid possible bottlenecks. This training should also address topics such as route optimization and vehicle technology, equipping drivers with the knowledge and tools necessary to handle road congestion with ease.
• Conduct regular vehicle maintenance. By keeping their fleets (and any technology installed within these fleets) on routine maintenance schedules, trucking businesses can ensure their vehicles stay in good condition and prevent them from causing any issues on the road—especially amid heavy traffic. What’s more, well-maintained vehicles are known to be more effective in navigating road congestion.

For information on trucking insurance, or to find out how to reduce your insurance costs call CMB at 780.424.2727 or click here to get a quote.