Field Service IT News — March 18, 2014
In the news, the FMCSA’s proposed rule that would require the use of electronic logging devices gets mixed reviews from the trucking industry. Also Forbes looks at the transformations cloud-based applications can mean for field service.
ELD Proposal Gets Mixed Reviews From Trucking Industry
Fleet Owner said that the mandatory electronic logging device for drivers’ hours-of-service compliance remains a priority for the American Trucking Association (ATA). The ATA is reportedly welcoming the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration’s proposed new ELD rule, while the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association may have some initial hesitations. The mandate seeks to improve safety and compliance in the trucking industry and to level the playing field with those who have already moved into new technologies.
Field Service On Verge Of Transformation With Cloud-Based Applications
Forbes predicts that the $15 billion field service industry is about to undergo a radical transformation with cloud-based applications. An increasing acceptance of mobile devices and products enable techs in the field to do work-orders, request parts, schedule and be scheduled, look up manuals, and take payments.
Truckload Capacity Tightens After Winter, But Economy Remains Steady
Fleet Owner said that recent circumstances might leave truckload capacity extremely limited for the short-term. Harsh winter conditions, replacement-only truck buying, last year’s changes to hours-of-service, and a mix of trucking company exits in the fourth quarter of 2013 made waves in the industry as a whole that inevitably tighten truckload capacity.
Field Service IT Talking Points
Fleet Owner reported on the 2014 Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) annual meeting, where Phil Byrd, the current chairman of the American Trucking Association’s Trade goup made the claim that complexity is trucking’s challenge.
Jacob Gaffney succinctly illustrates the reasoning for PHH — as the company weighs options — not to sell its fleet management business.
PepsiCo North America Beverages is moving to specially spec’d dry van trailers, liftgates and pallets, reports TruckingInfo.com, that were pre-loaded at the warehouse for a more quicker delivery to customers. In its quest for greater efficiency, the company is transitioning to a new delivery style it is calling “geobox.”
For more news and insights, visit BSMinfo’s Field Service Tech Center.