Technology has revolutionised the way we do most things in our day to day lives – business, how we interact, manage our time and even our health. As well as these, it now contributes a great deal to many aspects of commercial drivers’ duties, to make life on the road run smoother. This entails everything from planning routes to communicating with customers and clients. Driving professionally can often involve long-haul journeys that can be tiresome. Smartphone applications can assist in not only increasing productivity and efficiency but enhancing connectivity and quality of life.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of mobile trucker apps for professional drivers, and how they can aid an HGV driver whilst on the road.
There are numerous benefits that come with smartphone apps that have been specifically created for commercial drivers, and these include:
In the past, HGV drivers may have had to ask if they could use the fax machine at a truck stop to submit documents. However, with company smartphone applications where electronic logs can be utilised, the need for this has been eliminated. Such trucking apps allow an HGV driver to view their tasks, check payments, access navigation systems, watch instructional videos and more.
There are also smartphone applications, for example an HGV sat nav app, which provide vehicle-specific route plans, driving assistance, navigation/directions and news on traffic.
Ensuring you stay within the permitted drivers’ hours and take the correct number of breaks is essential for commercial drivers. Not doing so can result in serious consequences from fines to even prosecution. Overworking and not taking regular breaks, especially within the logistics industry can be a huge contributing factor to decreased productivity, not to mention personal wellbeing. Thankfully, there are solutions such as an HGV driving hours app that will keep you safely within the regulations by monitoring all driving and rest activities.
Being able to use such modern tools to carry out the duties above means HGV drivers can manage their workload in a more efficient, easier and accessible manner. And not only that, but it also allows them to be more productive at work.
Staying connected whilst on the road is essential – particularly on long-haul jobs. There are smartphone apps available that can help lorry drivers stay connected with others.
Dispatchers and drivers require a safe way to communicate in real time without phone calls. Whilst some commercial drivers still communicate using CB (citizens bands) radios (though not as common as they once were), others have turned to designated trucking apps on their Android or iOS devices. This may include automatic status updates when deliveries have been started and then completed, as well as automatic updates to routes that are sent straight from the dispatcher to the driver. For instance, if the dispatcher or customer needs to give last-minute instructions to the driver, a mobile app can help ease the communication process. In this way, you can decrease phone time and enhance efficiency.
Mobile apps designed for HGV drivers can also increase connectivity for fleet managers. For example, they can use trucker designed apps to send/receive documents to and from drivers as well as track their location.
Rising fuel expenses are a cause for concern for all. In some cases, companies may potentially be able to cut down on overall fuel costs with trucker applications which optimise the route for every drop-off. By being able to take the best route between different deliveries (which may not always be the shortest!), you can ensure lower fuel consumption. With more reliable route planning for delivery schedules, customer satisfaction will also be improved.
All HGV drivers will have to deal with vehicle breakdowns at some point during their career. And failing to adhere to vehicle preventative maintenance schedules can cause even more vehicle breakdowns. However, there are truck tracking apps available which can alert fleet managers if vehicles are being overworked as well as ensure that preventative maintenance programs are being followed.
Traditional methods of planning and tracking (like managing orders via excel spreadsheets) with manual data entry and fixing errors can be time-consuming. However, there are trucking apps designed specifically for HGV drivers to use for tracking and logging purposes. For instance, this can ensure that details about orders and deliveries are automatically updated across systems. Not only does this reduce paperwork but also labour and mistakes in data entry.
Inaccuracies caused by manual processes can lead to disruptions whilst on the job. Fortunately, fleet tracking apps can help fleet managers learn about their drivers’ practices in real-time, in order for them to be rectified promptly. For example, fleet managers can be alerted when drivers are speeding, or when excessive idling is detected. Any solution that allows the assessment of driver performance can contribute a great deal towards improving the safety of not only commercial drivers but other road users too.
Digitised operations massively help HGV drivers when it comes to training. Fleets can use trucker apps to house resources and training materials. In-built training modules can be developed and made easily accessible to drivers at anytime and anywhere. For instance, there is an HGV theory test app where those training can find the latest revision questions and answers to prepare for their theory test. And having the option to complete training via an app gives them the opportunity to complete mandatory training at their own convenience. This will improve employees’ personal skills and abilities, resulting in improved overall efficiency.
Whilst not endorsing any of the apps listed below, here are a few that caught our eye:
In our digital age, utilising technological solutions, such as smartphone trucking apps, can help to streamline and automate fleet operations and duties. The right app designed for HGVs can aid in reducing costs, keeping drivers safe and improve overall work efficiency. Therefore, it’s wise for transport and logistics companies to leverage smartphone applications designed for HGV drivers. Such modern innovation can more so simplify and enhance life on the road in comparison to traditional practices.
If you’d like to talk to us about how we can help with your HGV career, call us on 0808 178 9977 or chat to one of our agents right now.
