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Managing Complex Routing with Software

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It’s rarely simple to coordinate bulk shipments across long distances, especially for haulers with lots of trucks spread across the country. Companies that transport crude oil, sand, grain, or water want every load to reach its destination on time and under budget.

The challenge? Routing for bulk commodity transportation can be more complicated than for typical freight shipments, with variables like load type, access restrictions, weather, equipment availability, and more coming into play.

A modern transportation management system (TMS) helps haulers streamline their operations, even when transporting heavily regulated commodities across multi-state, multi-stop routes.

The Unique Complexity of Bulk Commodity Routing
Transportation management software enhancing routing accuracy and reducing costs

Unlike traditional parcel delivery, bulk loads often operate under specialized regulations. Some routes restrict heavy or hazardous loads, and some commodities require specific equipment to unload. Managing these deliveries through manual spreadsheets and paper maps is inefficient and error-prone.

Transportation management software creates a centralized database for all of this information, allowing dispatchers to make agile decisions in real time. With integrated fleet management solutions, a TMS automatically factors in driver hours and equipment availability, helping haulers balance operational efficiency with safety and compliance.

Reliable Data = Smarter Routes

Dispatchers need the right tools to make their best routing decisions, and those tools rely on accurate, timely information. Bulk commodity transportation software gives teams the ability to capture live GPS data and optimize delivery schedules.

Dispatch functions in transportation software can analyze several route options at once, considering driver schedules, fuel costs, weather, and any other expected delays. Then, the system automatically assigns loads to the most efficient routes, reducing empty miles and improving on-time performance.

Fleet Optimization Tools
PakEnergy TMS provides one stop shop from load creation to invoicing and payroll

Transportation management solutions allow operators to track a variety of connected data sources in one convenient place, making it easier to spot underutilized equipment or inefficient routes. This live visibility also significantly reduces downtime.

Automated alerts notify staff when trucks are due for routine maintenance, or when weather or construction road closures affect expected route performance. Bulk commodity transportation often has thin margins and strict regulations, so taking a proactive approach to fleet optimization helps prevent costly breakdowns and disruptions.

Complete Visibility Across the Load Lifecycle

The best TMS solutions provide end-to-end visibility for every load. Haulers and customers can see where each load is at any time, eliminating the need for time-killing calls and emails. This transparent communication builds trust and allows teams to respond quickly to delays.

Centralized data flows through integrated analytic dashboards, providing another layer of valuable insights. A TMS platform can track on-time delivery rates, fuel usage, and downtime, allowing teams to monitor performance and fine-tune their operations. As a result, teams have data-driven tools that effortlessly scale as operations expand.

Make Complex Routing Simple with PakEnergy

Not all TMS platforms are suitable for bulk commodity transport. The best TMS solution for your company offers customizable tools for routing, compliance, and fleet optimization. Additionally, if you operate in a highly regulated field, such as energy, specialized oil and gas logistics software can help sync up logistics and operations teams, streamlining company-wide collaboration.

With PakEnergy’s end-to-end transportation management solutions, haulers can transform complex routing challenges into manageable, optimized processes. Equipped with automated tools, enhanced visibility, and integrated fleet-wide data, dispatchers can boost delivery reliability and ensure every mile drives value.

Want to learn more about how we can support your operations? Connect with a PakEnergy professional for a free demo today!

Learn how to unlock greater efficiency in your transportation operations—get your free copy of the "Top Best Practices to Accelerate Fleet Profits & Performance" eBook today »
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