Streamlining Logistics Efficiency through Route Optimization Software
Load and route optimization software systems were created to make companies more efficient by assisting with delivery routes and schedules. This is an investment worth exploring for long or short-haul companies. With increasing customer demands for service, speed, and competitive price, load and route optimization software offers an efficient way to find the best delivery routes and schedules.
This product can also assist business success with finding fuel savings, improved load efficiency, and even more stops per day. Manual route planning does not offer the solutions that can help change the route optimization and planning process at a more precise level of sophistication.
Key Variables and Considerations in Choosing Route Optimization Software
The key is knowing how to choose the right vendor and also knowing which variables influence your business the most while on the road. For every job many variables are needed to complete the shipment. Some of the variables to consider are listed below:
Delivery time
Inbound and outbound shipments
Dock restrictions
Traffic congestion
Customer locations & delivery quantities
Driver shift times
Truck size and height restrictions
Unloading/re-loading duration
Traffic speeds, temporary road construction & road detours
One-way streets and other street limitations
Travel times and distances, meal & HOS breaks
Road types urban or rural
After you identify the variables most pertinent to your everyday hauls, it is then time to find the right vendor to purchase the software from. The key is how to get to the right vendor and pick the best system for your business.
Know Your Specific Business Niche
Some software products are more geared for short haul, some long haul and some a combination of both. A company should keep in mind its long-term goals when making a software investment. Where do you see the company evolving? Will you be making multiple stops, multi-leg, or long haul?
Each vendor’s program will have its advantages and disadvantages and you want to ensure the program will fit your business’ one, three, and five-year plans. Asking friends and competitors what they have used, or are currently using, can provide valuable insight on the effectiveness and ease of use for a vendor you are considering. Some programs have certain limitations and do not offer the flexibility your business may need that other programs offer.
With the proper training and software that fits your business needs, you can find the best and most cost-efficient delivery routes and schedules while making the most of your customers’ demands.