Are you an owner-operator looking to build new efficiencies or grow your business? Or maybe a broker who needs to upgrade legacy systems to improve dispatch and keep up with today’s fast-paced, tech-enabled environment? Either way, if you’re in the trucking industry, you’ve probably at least heard about trucking dispatch software. Trucking dispatch software is technology that eases the stress and workflow for your dispatch team. Most programs will include a live dispatch board, shipment tracking with integrated GPS and scheduling capabilities.
When deciding whether trucking dispatch software is right for you, there are some questions worth asking:
- Why do I need dispatch software?
- How do I find software that’s right for me?
- What are the additional benefits to using trucking software?
Why Do I Need Dispatch Software?
Trucking companies and owner-operators have been managing their side of supply chain logistics for a long time. Smaller companies tend to default to using spreadsheets and multiple programs, which may be a decent solution, but definitely has its drawbacks. Implementing trucking software can be a significant upgrade to your current system. Having all your dispatch information in one location can help introduce new efficiencies and backups that streamline operations and increase productivity.
How Do I Find Software That’s Right for Me?
There are many dispatch software systems to choose from, each with its own features. Check out our list of Top 10 Dispatch Software Systems for Transportation and Trucking for a quick and easy introduction to some of the most popular options.
While businesses may prefer one option over another, all these systems offer digitization and visualization. What used to be done over the phone and tracked with spreadsheets and basic accounting programs, can now be combined into one desktop, web-based or app-based system. It’s simpler, more convenient, reduces potential errors and leads to better reporting and more informed decision making.
What Are the Additional Benefits to Using Trucking Software?
By using trucking software to facilitate operations, you can more effectively monitor and improve results using data and integration. A key component of many dispatch software systems is the data they can provide that will help you quickly measure and analyze how your operations are performing. Integration capabilities also help to streamline your communications and reporting.
Common features include:
- Real-time reporting, available on demand through the software
- Analysis of planned vs. actual routes
- Streamlined communications with drivers and dispatchers
- Integrated invoicing options
At the end of the day, each company owner has the final say on how to operate their business. But when you’re looking for a competitive edge, staying ahead of the competition and making more informed business decisions could be as easy as finding and implementing the right trucking dispatch software.