Author: Zuum Transportation

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Blog Shipper News

Automotive Supply Chains: 2022 Forecast

Supply chains are a vital component in the automotive industry. They ensure timely sourcing of raw material, semi-finished articles, and finished products. This is true for both the manufacturer and the auto dealers. Globally, the automotive industry is a multi-billion dollar sector. Its supply chains stretch both domestically and beyond the borders. Any disruption in any part of the supply chain can affect both the demand and supply in the automotive sector.

The COVID19 pandemic has adversely affected the automotive supply chains. It has led to huge fluctuations in the demand and supply of components, spare parts, and even complete automobiles. This trend is likely to continue in the first half of 2022. Gina Raimondo, the US Secretary of Commerce has stated that though the supply chains will continue to recover, they will take a ‘number of months’ to normalize.

What to expect in 2022?

The pre-pandemic period was an ever-rising phase for the automotive industry. Fitch Ratings have predicted that the automotive industry will improve in 2022. At the same time, the supply chain risks will continue to loom over. Although the global sales will increase, they will continue to remain 6% lower than the 2019 pre-pandemic levels. 

There will be numerous effects of the present scenario on the Automotive Supply chains in 2022. Some of them are:

Uncertainty in automotive supply chains

The automotive industry will continue to be affected by uncertain material supply. Suppliers will be hit by bottlenecks in the global supply chains. This will affect the production, cost of automobiles, and their sale. 

Unstable productions due to semiconductor shortage

The automotive industry depends on semiconductors. Modern-day vehicles are equipped with a large number of sensors and ICs for advanced functions. Due to a dip in semiconductor production, its supply to the automobile sector is sure to hit production.

Less availability of raw material

Due to the likely extension of the pandemic in 2022, there will be a tight supply of raw material in the automotive sector. Increased prices and lesser supplies of materials like plastic resin and steel escalate costs. It will force the automakers to restrict production.

Change in the inventory levels

The automotive sector, in the pre COVID19 era, used the ‘Just-in-Time’ inventory model. They would procure raw material just before production. In 2022, the automotive inventory managers will stock up material for future production runs. This can further lead to price functions of raw materials. In the extreme scenario, it can result in hoarding.

Search for innovative solutions

Companies will take up R&D activities to supplement shortages with innovative methods. There will be a rise in R&D activities and the automotive industry will focus on fulfilling their needs locally. It will lead to the creation of new supply chains which will sustain a part of the automotive industry. 

Rise of costs in automotive supply chains

Due to increased shipping rates & labor charges, the automotive supply chains will remain expensive. This will adversely affect the pricing of the finished goods. The profits will thus get limited. It may also affect the purchasing capacity of the buyers.

Increase in Electric vehicles

EVs will be the buzzword in 2022. Due to the blockages in the IC engine supply chains, companies will shift attention to green vehicles. Combined with the govt. incentives, the automotive sector is bound to see a rise in electric vehicles.

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Blog Supply Chain Expertise

Supply Chain & Logistics Tech Trends for 2022

Supply Chain and Logistics are the backbones of any industry. They are needed in all types of businesses. Supply Chain and Logistics ensure safe and reliable transport of goods from the source to the destination. Since the early days of the industrial revolution, Supply Chain and Logistics have evolved from their nascent state. In the present, Supply Chain and Logistics are key components that define the success of any project.

The COVID19 pandemic has affected all components of the Supply Chain and Logistics. The pandemic has disrupted the operations of global Supply Chains and Logistics sectors. Then again, innovative solutions have defined how these essential mechanisms were revived. Technology has played an important role in the metamorphosis of the Supply Chain and Logistics industry.

What to expect in Supply Chain and Logistics in 2022

Technology will continue to redefine the Supply Chain and Logistics industry for the year 2022 and beyond. Here are a few insights on what to expect in the future.

Increased use of technology

Technology will continue to rule the Supply Chains and the Logistics. The use of AI, Automation & Machine Learning will speed up these delivery mechanisms between the source and the destination. This will improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the transport of goods.

Promote circular Supply Chains and Logistics

Supply Chain and Logistics will encourage recycling of goods. These circular delivery mechanisms will be made possible due to the advances in the tech space. It will lead to the sustenance of smaller manufacturers and suppliers. Circular Supply Chains and Logistics will emerge as a cost-effective solution.

Greater use of Third Party Logistics (3PL)

Due to the continued onslaught of COVID19, shippers will increase the use of 3PL services. The 3PLs provide tailor-made services to the shippers. In addition, they provide specific insights on their requirements of the shippers. This will be due to the use of the latest innovations in tech for the Supply Chain and Logistics sectors.

Emphasis on local regions

Supply Chains and Logistics activities will focus on the local marketplace. Due to blockages at the global level, managers will try to fulfil any requirements at the local level. The increased connectivity and tech-supported business activities will catalyze this phenomenon. It will also reduce the undue stress on the global Supply Chains and Logistics mechanisms. 

Rise in predictive analysis

To avoid any delays & losses, managers will rely on predictive analysis. It will help them foresee any untoward incident and take preemptive steps. Complex algorithms and predictive analysis models will play a pivotal role in this activity. This will in turn lead to timely delivery of goods in transit.

Green Management

Supply Chains and Logistics will shift their focus towards eco-friendly methods. With greener options, the goods delivery mechanisms will continue to reinvent themselves for a better earth. Studies have shown that 90% of people in the age group of 21 to 34 are ready to pay more for eco-friendly products. Green management of Supply Chains and Logistics will therefore add a feather in the cap of the product marketers.

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Blog Logistics News

ZUUM Transportation Named Food Logistics’ 2021 FL100+ Top Software and Technology Provider

ZUUM INC, the California-based logistics technology company, joins the list for the second consecutive year.

Irvine, California STATE—December 21, 2021— ZUUM Transportation INC, a leading logistics technology provider for manufacturers, freight brokers, and carriers, has been named 2021 FL100+ Top Software and Technology Provider by Food Logistics. Food Logistics magazine covers software & technology, transportation, safety & security, sustainability, and risk & compliance for global food supply chains. The FL100+ Top Software and Technology Providers list honors leading software and technology providers that ensure a safe, efficient and reliable global food and beverage supply chain.

ZUUM’s BEYOND TMS helps manufacturers and retailers reduce freight spend, find capacity, accelerate freight planning and management. It addresses critically needed digital capacity aggregation, efficiency, and connected systems with a ZUUM Enterprise version for large companies & ZUUM Business for midmarket and smaller businesses.

“We are thrilled to be recognized as a 2021 FL100+ Top Software and Technology Provider by Food Logistics. Our ongoing dedication to our customers drives us to pursue solutions that solve industry challenges for all shippers, brokers, and carriers. We are excited to streamline and automate supply chains and procurement, and look forward to the exciting road ahead,” says Mustafa Azizi, CEO and Co-Founder of ZUUM Transportation. 

“Software development and emerging technologies make the world go ‘round. They’re what keeps people and the products, food and plants they consume safe and fresh: Traceability, visibility, efficiency and safety. And, the winners from this year’s award prove that there are no limitations to what software and technology can do in the supply chain space,” says Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive.

Recipients of this year’s award will be profiled in Food Logistics’ Nov/Dec 2021 print issue. Go to www.FoodLogistics.com to view the list of Top Software & Technology Providers. 

For more information on ZUUM Transportation, visit www.zuumapp.com.

About ZUUM Transportation

ZUUM Transportation, Inc. is a logistics technology company based in Irvine, CA. Founded in 2016, ZUUM offers a shipper TMS, freight broker software, carrier TMS, and a mobile app for truck drivers that are connected within the Logistics Super Platform. These tools enable customers to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their logistics operations while simultaneously automating their transportation networks. Our vision is to optimize logistics and streamline supply chains globally by defragmenting the industry through collaboration and partnerships.

About Food Logistics

Food Logistics reaches more than 26,000 supply chain executives in the global food and beverage industries, including executives in the food sector (growers, producers, manufacturers, wholesalers and grocers) and the logistics section (transportation, warehousing, distribution, software and technology) who share a mutual interest in the operations and business aspects of the global cold food supply chain. Food Logistics and sister publication Supply & Demand Chain Executive are also home to L.I.N.K. and L.I.N.K. Educate podcast channels, L.I.N.K. Live, SCN Summit, SupplyChainLearningCenter.com and more. Go to www.FoodLogistics.com to learn more.

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Blog Events Supply Chain Expertise

ZUUM at FreightWaves’ F3 Virtual Experience [Recap]

One of the industry’s leading media networks, FrieghtWaves brought some of the biggest names in freight technology for their F3 Virtual Experience. Attendees were invited to join virtually for the 3-day long immersive experience. ZUUM was a proud participant and excited to connect with new and familiar faces.

FrieghtWaves also announced ZUUM Transportation was recognized as a winner for the 2022 FreightTech 100 winner, celebrating the most innovative and disruptive companies in freight. This recognition follows the announcement of ZUUM’s transportation management system (TMS) launch for shippers (manufacturers & retailers) and freight broker software earlier in 2021

CEO, Mustafa Azizi on NOW TV

On the first day, CEO, Mustafa Azizi joined the hosts of  NOW TV to discuss the significance of connecting systems for actionable intelligence in logistics. ZUUM Automated Broker is helping logistics companies drive their digital transformation efforts. Universal integration with existing systems is enabling data flow internally and across complex freight networks.

COO, Matt Tabatabai presents the Logistics Super Platform

On the second day, COO, Matt Tabataba showcased ZUUM’s Logistics Super Platform which includes ZUUM’s Beyond TMS, our transportation management system for shippers, ZUUM Automated Broker, our software solution for freight brokers and third-party logistics providers, ZUUM Fleet Manager, our transportation management system for carriers, and ZUUM Driver, our mobile application for truck drivers.

Meet Alfie, the Shipping Elf

Throughout the virtual experience, ZUUM debuted the holiday commercial. Meet Alfie, the Shipping Elf.

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Blog Logistics News

ZUUM Transportation Named 2022 FreightTech 100 Winner

ZUUM Transportation’s debut on the coveted list is another highlight of the technology firm’s rapid growth. ZUUM technology is recognized as leading the charge for helping logistics companies deploy their assets more effectively to address the current headline-grabbing supply chain interruptions.

ZUUM Transportation is recognized by FreightWaves, an industry-leading media network focused on logistics and supply chain information, as an award winner for the 2022 FreightTech 100. FreightTech 100 celebrates the most innovative and disruptive companies in freight. 

ZUUM Transportation is the first to offer connected solutions for all participants of freight transportation (shippers, brokers, and carriers) on one modular Logistics Super Platform. Each product within the Logistics Super Platform provides a seamless data flow for actionable intelligence, instant capacity aggregation, and back office automation to maximize efficiency and productivity.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as one of the leading technology solutions in freight. In the past year and a half, the logistics industry has risen to the challenge of keeping global supply chains running during an unprecedented time. We are proud to work alongside those companies and supply chain leaders who continue to show dedication to fuel our American Way of Life” said ZUUM Transportation Co-Founder & CEO, Mustafa Azizi. “Our technology empowers supply chain leaders to face and overcome challenges with confidence.”

This recognition follows the announcement of ZUUM’s transportation management system (TMS) launch for shippers (manufacturers & retailers) and freight broker software earlier in 2021. ZUUM’s Beyond TMS allows shippers to reduce their freight cost and gain more control over their freight network through real-time visibility and automated notifications. ZUUM Automated Broker is the SaaS-deployed solution that can digitize freight brokerages overnight; freight brokers can automate every aspect of their operations, including freight management, increase on-time delivery performance, improve customer satisfaction, and help companies achieve higher profits to accelerate growth. Complementing these software products, ZUUM offers a solution for carriers and an iOS and Android mobile application for truck drivers. 

Delivering on its mission of supply chain innovation, ZUUM continues to develop solutions that transform the $1.2 trillion transportation and logistics industry. 

For more information, please visit www.zuumapp.com.

About ZUUM Transportation

ZUUM Transportation, Inc. is a logistics technology company based in Irvine, CA. Founded in 2016, ZUUM offers a shipper TMS, freight broker software, carrier TMS, and a mobile app for truck drivers that are connected within the Logistics Super Platform. These tools enable customers to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their logistics operations while simultaneously automating their transportation networks. Our vision is to optimize logistics and streamline supply chains globally by defragmenting the industry through collaboration and partnerships.

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Blog Carrier News

Route Planning vs. Route Optimization

There’s a prevalent misunderstanding regarding what “route planning” entails when it comes to routing and logistics. This is especially true when the word “route optimization” is mentioned. While these two terms are commonly confused, the truth is that they couldn’t be more different.

So, what is the difference between route planning and route optimization, and how can you tell the two apart? We’ll walk you through the distinctions and, more importantly, how they affect your ability to meet (and exceed) your customers’ delivery expectations.

Route Planning is an outdated system

Route planning and route mapping, also known as sequencing, are inextricably linked. The practice of drafting driving directions (or routes) for several locations on a map and arranging them in the most logical and practical sequence is known as route planning.


The customer’s home or business address is represented by each destination, which is based on a service or delivery order. The orders are usually written down on a list and then loaded into a route planner, or route planning software.

Route Optimization: A must-have tool for delivery businesses

Route optimization is a more efficient method of planning, managing, and mapping routes. Route optimization assists you in excelling at what you do by allowing you to build the most efficient routes based on criteria and restrictions other than distance. By constructing delivery routes based on more than just distance, route optimization assists you in excelling. Advanced algorithms allow you to take control of your deliveries and ensure that even the most complex requests are satisfied without skipping a beat with full route optimization.

Route Optimization is worth paying

The cost of last-mile delivery is the most concerning disadvantage. This is due to the fact that it entails distributing smaller amounts to a larger number of recipients. It’s vital to focus on planning and efficiency to offset these greater costs, and route optimization is the most effective approach to do so.

Here is an overview on how route optimization might advantage you.

Reduce shipping charges

Fuel and labor are two of the most important factors to reflect upon when calculating logistics costs. That’s because they’re in charge of a large amount of your overall shipping charges. While a few miles out of the way for a single delivery may not seem like much, the extra gas money may soon add up when multiplied by several drivers and dozens of deliveries every day.

Quick Deliveries 

Cutting delivery times is advantageous not only for increasing productivity, but also for enhancing customer service. You’ll have a distinct advantage over your competitors if you can deliver products faster, and clients will choose you over them if they know they’ll have what they want sooner.

Take your business to new heights

You must have the financial resources to back up your investment in extra drivers and vehicles. Assessing your current productivity is a better way to go about this. By allowing you to accomplish more with less effort, route optimization can help you become more productive. This is the key to attaining your full progress potential.

In a last-mile delivery firm, effective and efficient driver routing is one of the most important controllable variables. If you’re still planning routes based on destination locations, you’re missing out. You should start looking for route optimization software to handle the talked issues. Comment your chosen brand in the comment section for recommendations. 

Contact one of our freight tech experts to learn more about ZUUM’s route optimization technology.

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Blog Supply Chain Expertise

Advantages of SaaS Solutions for Enterprise Companies

Software as a Service (SaaS) is the present-day answer to all enterprise software requirements. It provides a robust and continuous solution to any small or large-scale software needs. SaaS is the de-facto, modern-day, hi-tech solution to all industrial software needs. It utilizes cloud computing services. Cloud computing is on-demand computer resources that include computing power and data storage. Cloud computing does not need active user management. 

What is SaaS?

SaaS is also known as web-hosted or on-demand software. The software delivery and licensing are on a subscription basis. In SaaS, the software is centrally hosted and users are charged as per their use. There may be a base subscription fee as well. A user accesses a SaaS-based application over the internet through a web browser. The common examples of SaaS are Microsoft 365, Salesforce and Google Workspace. SaaS is expected to have a market of $122.6 billion by 2021.   

SaaS, as a concept, dates back to the 1960s. IBM and other tech companies provided utility sharing or time-sharing computing. This type of service was categorized as service bureau business. The term SaaS first appeared in 1985 in a USPTO trademark application filed under the goods and services description. SaaS is categorized as Horizontal SaaS and Vertical SaaS. Horizontal SaaS provides services to a broad range of customers. Vertical SaaS provides specific user demand services to a particular group of users. 

The Advantages of SaaS Solutions:

Using SaaS solutions in enterprises has several advantages. Some of them are:

  • Provides easy customization: Every business and every user has specific software needs. SaaS provides an easy way to configure the applications to the needs of everyone.
  • Has simple updates:  SaaS provides centralized software updates. The SaaS-based utility developers upgrade the software in a professional, risk-free manner. The users don’t have to worry about data loss or software installation issues.
  • Has low operational costs: SaaS users need a computer with a web browser and internet connection. It does away with the cost of procuring high-end computers and expensive, stand-alone software. The users have to pay only for the features they use. Enterprises can also go for customized deals with SaaS providers. 
  • Provides better access: SaaS users can access their applications from the office, home, or on the go. Since it does away with the need for heavy-duty computers, users can work from anywhere. This, in turn, improves office productivity saving work hours. 
  • Allows indefinite scaling: SaaS allows companies to scale up their business. They don’t have to worry about the associated increase of infrastructure. Enterprises just need to buy additional SaaS-based licenses for increased work.
  • Empowers partnerships: SaaS platforms are standard platforms. When firms work on them, they can collaborate with ease. They don’t have to worry about standard formats or data exchange protocols. In other words, SaaS does away with time-consuming technical attributes.
  • Provides centralized data analytics: Since data is centrally stored, SaaS users can extract real-time analytics. This helps them make on-the-go decisions needed in several businesses.

Applications of SaaS Technology in Logistics & Transportation

SaaS technology can be especially beneficial for logistics companies and departments. Since IT staffing and the responsibility of maintaining and upgrading the software would fall on the shoulders of the technology provider, mentioned logistics companies and teams would be able to designate more resources towards building relationships. Additionally, the advantage of leveraging the most up-to-date and cutting edge technologies will help optimize processes, eliminate human errors, and streamline communication.

ZUUM Transportation offers SaaS solutions for shippers (ZUUM Business & ZUUM Enterprise) and freight brokers (ZUUM Automated Broker). Contact our freight technology experts to learn more.

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Shipper Help Shipper News Supply Chain Expertise

Static RFPs Vs. Dynamic RFPs

Transportation and Logistics are highly important business requirements in today’s complex markets. All trade and commerce activities rely on them in one form or the other. In this global era, industrial activities depend on transporters and logistics providers. They, after all, form the backbone of a dynamic, global supply chain.

The needs of a shipper are reflected through a Request for Proposal (RFP) document. It provides information on the problem at hand & the related information. It simultaneously asks the vendors to provide possible solutions along with their bids. An RFP document should be well written and must have all necessary information. If required, it should have fact-based assumptions. An RFP needs to have real-world operational awareness as well.

A good RFP provides the basis for selecting the right solution provider. This in turn improves the supply chain efficiency towards better profit margins and lower wastage. Usually, a person experienced in the Logistics and Transportation sector prepares the RFP. When a company distributes an RFP, a well-written document allows the responders to understand if they want to pursue the project. The successful service provider gets a contract for their services.  

Types of RFPs:  

There are a few types of RFPs used in the industry. The major ones are Static RFPs and Dynamic RFPs. 

Static RFPs: Traditionally, business houses conduct RFPs every year. This includes several rounds of bidding by the prospective service providers. After awarding the contract to the right service provider, the shipper begins the long on-boarding process. Static RFPs result in committed shiploads for the service providers.

Dynamic RFPs: Short-duration RFPs are dynamic and preferred in volatile market scenarios. It is like spot market booking for shipment. Due to the varying freight costs, service providers prefer accepting smaller duration contracts. This is true for shipping within the borders and overseas.

Static RFPs vs Dynamic RFPs

Dynamic RFPs. There are several reasons for saying so. Though Static RFPs provide a long-term contract for both the shipper and the service provider, it is no longer suitable in the present market. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic situation, the shipping costs skyrocketed. The service providers in turn were unable to fulfill their commitments at the pre-negotiated prices. This led to major disruptions in the signed contracts.

This scenario led to short-duration contracts or mini bids for 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days. These short window or dynamic contracts result in smooth flow of goods without having to worry about the market rates or cancelled contracts. Dynamic contracts shield shippers from market volatility. 

Short-duration contracts also help shippers book small shipping slots to make up for blockages in their supply chain. When a business house finds an unseen blockage in their network, extra shipping slots for small durations work as lifesavers. 

In fluctuating production scenarios, Dynamic RFPs help manufacturers save costs. Nowadays, companies prefer smaller shipping slots owing to volatile demand and economic conditions. It has also resulted in quick movement of goods from the source to the destination. Shippers looking to transition towards employing Dynamic RFPs should consider ZUUM Enterprise as a TMS solution. To learn more, click here.

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Blog Broker News

How to Grow and Develop Your Carrier Base

Grow Your Business With Your Carriers!

Do you want to grow and develop your carrier base as a freight broker? If yes, here are a few tips for you that can help you achieve the desired results.

The reputation of the freight broker depends on the quality of the service they provide for their customers. A couple of elements to delivering high quality of service includes maintaining strong relationships with your carrier partners and knowing carriers who are available to haul loads. Additionally, it is also important to know whether your carriers are providing reliable service for your customers as well; if an issue arises, the customer may view the service failure as a reflection of your company’s performance.

You can develop your carrier base by using your networking skill. To successfully maintain and your rolodex of dependable carrier partners requires skill and strategic thinking. We will discuss a few tips on how to do both. Before moving further, let’s take a deeper dive into the U.S. trucking industry.

An Overview of US Carrier Market

Most of the goods that are transported in the United States of America are transported by trucks. According to statistics, 70% of all cargo transportation is still carried by trucks, and these trends are unlikely to change in the near future.

These trucks, belonging to different categories (semi-trailers, motor vehicles, and 18-wheelers), usually transport goods from one destination to another in the United States of America. All goods, ranging from consumer goods, general cargo to perishable goods, are usually using these trucks.

The U.S. freight brokerages have seen a sudden sevenfold growth. This is due to the fact that the industry regulations have grown stricter than ever before.

Trucking companies

The trucking industry is one of the largest revenue streams in the U.S. economy. The businesses in this field can be very profitable, but it is incredibly competitive. There are almost 1.3 million trucking companies in the U.S. Among them, 97% operate 20 trucks, and 90% operate less than 6 trucks. 

U.S. Truck Driver Population

The U.S. Census states that there are more than 3.5 million truck drivers in the U.S., making driving one of the most popular occupations in the United States. However, the problem for most freight brokers is the lack of truck drivers. Getting good and qualified drivers is difficult, and this problem is causing the slowdown in the growth of many fleets. But this problem can be solved with Owner Operators who are independent freelance drivers that don’t work for a specific company. You can consult them. 

Tips to Grow & Develop your Carrier Base

There are several tips for freight brokers when pursuing potential carrier partners, such as:

Tip #1: Forgo higher profit margins in the beginning to establish a relationship with a new carrier

To attract more clients and raise awareness of your business, you should stop focusing on profitability in the first three months of operation. Only go for growth! Your earnings may suffer a little over these three months, but you will not suffer a loss.

Don’t select the carriers that are willing to work for cheaper if the quality of the other carrier services is not up to par with your core carrier base. If necessary, explain to your carriers that the market conditions have changed, which affects pricing. Always be as transparent as possible with your carrier base.

Tip #2: Continue to give loads to repeat carriers

Nothing is better than repeat business. Like any other business, a freight brokerage company is created not only for profit but also to maintain sustainability over a long period of time, which can lead to expansion. Create a reliable business structure that will allow you to stay in business for as long as possible.

In the beginning, you spend many hours looking for a reliable carrier to move your customer load. Try to utilize a repeat carrier instead of hiring new every time. It will increase overall efficiencies and brokerage while reducing the booking process to minutes.

Tip #3: Gain market share & specialize in a specific region, mode, or truck type

Identify the company’s size (for example, small carriers, midsize carriers, large carriers, or owner-operators), trucks, and area. It will determine whether they are a good fit for your business or not.  Take extra few minutes with the carriers the first time you work with them. Next time they will provide a higher level of customer service and notify you of delays and issues. In addition, they will rarely cancel your shipments after booking.

Tip #4: Keep your carriers informed

Once you build a carrier base, you can book your carriers more efficiently. Managing carriers can be stressful, but “communication is key.” Inform the carriers about the last minutes’ changes or specific requirements. 

Developing a long-term carrier relationship requires continuous contact. For this purpose, make sure to employ the best technology to manage your carrier database — one that goes beyond just storing contact information. ZUUM Automated Broker has a robust Carrier relationship management and onboarding tools for just that.

Taking the time to get to know your carriers, understand their needs, and keep an open dialogue with shared growth in mind will go a long way in building and strengthening carrier relationships.

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Blog Carrier News

The Best Mobile Apps for Truck Drivers

 Even though there seems to be an app for everything these days, it can be difficult to find an app that satisfies exactly what you are looking for. As a truck driver, there are a lot of little things that make a big difference when you’re on the road. Whether it’s looking for the best route or checking on road conditions in real-time, being on the road comes with some hurdles that can be easily passed with a little technology. Luckily, at Zuum our supply chain management experts have years of experience working with carriers and drivers, and we’re interested in providing the most value to help you do your jobs better.. Keep on reading to discover the best apps available for your most important trucking needs! 

ZUUM Driver 

Another great option worth checking out, Zuum’s free driver app focuses on finding you instant bids in real-time, managing your fleet stress-free, and giving you access to all of your documents in one place. Zuum’s technology highlights their ability to provide profitable loads, optimized routes, and fleet visibility. Here’s what its App Store description has to say about some of the features: 

  • Instantly accept tendered offers or make counter offers right away
  • Manage your entire fleet and see what delivery each driver is on 
  • Manage all your deliveries and see each job’s details
  • Get real time locations for each of your drivers
  • Manage all documents and accessorial – all from your phone
  • Receive payments from each delivery instantly 

Gas Buddy

Including over 150,000 gas stations in North America, their website states that, “Over the last 15 years, GasBuddy has saved users over $3.1 billion dollars.” Gas Buddy is an app that finds you the cheapest fuel, with easy-access features such as a price map and trip cost calculator. The app provides information about the individual gas stations, listing its distance from you, which fuel stops offer food and rest, and even tells you when gas prices are about to hike.

Another included feature is that by paying for your fuel through their app, you can receive savings or cashback. In addition, the app is able to observe your driving habits and analyze when you are wasting money and gas. This is mostly an app for fuel location, but it is a very handy tool for carrier drivers to have on their phone! 

Pilot Flying J

Now called the myRewards Plus™ app, Pilot Flying J is a favorite among truck drivers due to its generous exclusive offers and wide truck stop/fuel station availability. Here are some of the features their app lists under their Google Play description: 

  • View each location’s full list of amenities, including fuel types and fuel prices, Service Centers and Roadside Assistance, number of showers, number of parking spaces, restaurants & food offerings, store hours and more.
  • Save time at the pump with Mobile Fueling. Choose the diesel lane that’s likely to open first, store your payment cards in our safe and secure mobile wallet, and activate the pump with a simple and unique code.
  • View and email up to 18 months of digital receipts in the app for all transactions. 
  • Professional drivers earn free showers when you fuel and can track your shower credits in the app, plus track your myRewards balance/savings and redeem for discounts at checkout.
  • Filter locations by amenities, parking availability, fuel type, restaurants & food offerings, and more.

Keep in mind that these features only apply at Pilot Flying J locations!

Drivewyze

The best thing about the Drivewyze app is that it can help you save valuable time at inspection sites and weigh stations. The company has a preclearance network of over 700 sites, distributed across 44 states and provinces in North America, which they state can “allow you to bypass scales up to 98% of the time, depending on your carrier safety score.” They offer a 30-day free trial, following which the current pricing is $17.99/month, and offer the features below as described in the Google Play store: 

  • Works at both fixed weigh stations and mobile sites
  • Requires no transponder – turns your device into a “smart transponder”
  • Updates regularly with new states and site locations
  • Truckers can now bypass 36 Florida Agriculture inspection sites (with carrier consent)
  • Unlimited phone or email customer support at no additional charge
  • Hands-free compliant with FMCSA and state distracted driving laws

If you liked this blog and one of these apps worked for you, make sure to tune into ZUUM’s blog for more insider articles!