TT Podcasts: RoadSigns
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Episode 135: How to Be Inclusive in the Trucking Industry?
With workforce shortages lingering, trucking companies are working hard to expand their driver recruitment reach by bolstering diversity and inclusion initiatives. Diverse businesses tend to be more successful due to reduced turnover, increased profits, better decision-making and improved innovation. In this episode, we wonder — how can companies reach success through inclusion? What specific steps should recruiters take to attract more minorities? With our guest, COMTO's April Rai, we unlocked numerous tips to increase workforce diversity and grow profits. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 134: Can Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Deliver for Trucking?
The transportation industry is under pressure from government regulators and some shipping customers to reduce carbon emissions. However, factors such as long distances, variable routes, high uptime requirements, strict driving-time limits and maximizing payload capacity make decarbonization particularly difficult for longhaul trucking. Given the added weight and charging requirements of battery-electric trucks, some truck makers and suppliers are investing in hydrogen. Hydrogen fuel cell trucks, which convert hydrogen into electricity to run an electric powertrain, have emerged as one of the more promising technology pathways to zero emissions. But how, where and when can these vehicles fit into the freight transportation industry? Find out with Parker Meeks, the CEO of Hyzon, a company that designs and manufactures fuel cell technology for heavy-duty transport applications. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 133: What Are Trucking’s Emerging Cybersecurity Threats?
Cyber Threat Alert: 30% of small businesses view phishing as their biggest digital menace, reports Cybersecurity Magazine. Surprisingly, 83% aren't ready for the financial aftermath of a cyberattack. How do you prevent your business from falling victim? What are the key defenses against cyberthreats? In our latest episode, we're joined by Ben Gardiner, a renowned cybersecurity expert at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association. With over 10 years in embedded systems and extensive hacking know-how, Ben provides practical, effective strategies to shield your business. He offers insights into operating systems and a comprehensive guide to cyber resilience. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 132: When Will Autonomous Trucks Take Off?
As the trucking industry continues its quest to prevent crashes and streamline the movement of freight, autonomous trucks are entering the spotlight. These self-driving vehicles promise to unlock not only enhanced safety but also remarkable efficiency gains for freight transport. Among those who have experienced this emerging technology firsthand is Seth Clevenger, who shares insights from his recent encounter with an autonomous truck prototype developed by Torc Robotics. Delving deeper, Seth speaks with Torc CEO Peter Vaughan Schmidt and Joanna Buttler, head of Daimler Truck’s global autonomous technology group. Together, they discuss the timeline for these trucks entering the market and how they could blend into existing fleet operations. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion that peers into the future of the trucking industry. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 131: Roundabout: Year in Review
Did you know that despite significant advancements in reducing emissions, our medium- and heavy-duty trucks still contribute a substantial 23% to transportation emissions? Since 1988, we've seen legislation transform the transportation landscape, advocating for alternative fuels for a healthier planet. In 2021, these changes led to a remarkable 98% reduction in emissions from new trucks. Yet, there's more road to cover. In this special year-in-review episode, we delve into the journey and future of alternative fuel trucks. How are they paving the way for a greener 2024? What does this mean for you and our environment? Join us as we explore these groundbreaking developments and envision a brighter, more sustainable future. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 130: How to Be a Sustainable Trucking Business
Did you know? Global greenhouse emissions from transportation is close to 25%, and in the U.S. it is 29%. By 2030, current emissions need to be cut by 45% to remain on track for a net zero 2050. How can trucking — an industry so dependent on fossil fuels — move to a greener, lower emissions future? In this how-to episode, we delve into strategic fleet sustainability with industry expert and ERoad's chief sustainability officer, Craig Marris. Carve out a practical, effective road map to a greener, more efficient fleet in this 60-minute session. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 129: How Can Connected Truck Technology Improve Fleet Management?
To run a truck fleet is to know a truck fleet, and when a truck is not operating at peak performance or breaks down on the side of the road, your operations suffer. Truck manufacturers such as Volvo Trucks North America have introduced an array of telematics and remote diagnostics tools designed to make it easier for trucking operations to monitor the health of their vehicles and the performance of their drivers through connected vehicle technology. Comparing the company’s connected trucks to an “iPhone on wheels,” VTNA President Peter Voorhoeve outlines how the truck maker is helping its customers make better use of this information to run their fleets more effectively. In this episode, he delves into the importance of proactive technology tools to help boost the productivity of your drivers and trucks. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 128: How Can Cloud Computing and AI Improve Fleet Management?
As the boundaries between the physical and digital realms continue to blur, transportation software companies are increasingly embracing cloud-based IT systems and AI to enable data-driven business decisions and reduce driver guesswork. One technology firm pursuing this path is Trimble, a software and telematics provider focused on connecting supply chain data streams within a unified, cloud-based ecosystem. The company believes this more connected approach to IT can empower trucking companies to optimize their planning processes, ensuring precise arrival times, guiding drivers to the optimal entry points, minimizing wasted time at facilities, maximizing asset utilization and enhancing the overall driver experience. In this episode, we are joined by Rishi Mehra, the sector vice president of Trimble’s Maps division. Rishi sheds light on the immense support that transportation technology can provide to enhance the efficiency of the physical supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 127: How to Start Your Own Trucking Business
Did you know that a staggering 70% of all freight in the United States is currently transported by the trucking industry? What's more, experts anticipate a remarkable 27% growth in the sector over the next decade. Whether you're eager to launch your own trucking business or are eyeing expansion opportunities for an existing one, the timing couldn't be better. But how can you ensure a successful journey in this highly competitive field? Join us as we introduce you to a seasoned trucking business owner who transformed a simple idea into a thriving enterprise, spanning three successful decades. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
This RoadSigns workshop is available for replay here: https://pages.ttnews.com/how-to-start-trucking-business.html
You can also sign up for the next workshop 'How To Be a Sustainable Trucking Business' that is now open for registration: https://pages.ttnews.com/how-to-be-a-sustainable-trucking-business.html
Workshop registrants receive special downloads and an exclusive Q&A experience with the industry expert.
Episode 126: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 50 Global Freight Companies
After spending the past few years grappling with severe port congestion and supply chain disruptions, international shippers and their freight transportation providers now face limited industrial real estate, lost containers, cyberthreats and fractured port appointment systems. At the same time, U.S. port operators are utilizing advancements in infrastructure and technology. In this episode, we examine Transport Topics' updated Top 50 list of the largest freight transportation companies in the world and explore how these companies are re-evaluating their supply chains and preparing for the future. Learn more about the latest trends and challenges for international freight. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 125: What Innovations Will Drive the Future of Truck Design?
When the U.S. Department of Energy challenged truck manufacturers to create a truck that improves freight efficiency by over 100%, Volvo’s Keith Brandis and Eric Bond said "challenge accepted." Volvo's new SuperTruck 2 comes with advanced cab aerodynamics, adjustable ride height, a camera-based mirroring system and low-rolling-resistance tires. Most importantly, it helps push the industry toward a zero-emission future. And since that's where the trucking industry is headed, host Seth Clevenger decided to sit with the Volvo experts for an in-depth look at the vehicle pushing the efficiency envelope. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
RoadShow Episode 14: Tom McLeod?
“We know that the future favors the prepared.” But improved management practices, Mcleod Software CEO Tom Mcleod reminds us, are not the bastion of the big and the lucky - small and midsize companies also have the opportunity to upgrade their efficiency and service levels. The transportation software veteran, responsible for one of the industry’s most successful TMS platforms, joins the show to discuss why trucking companies of all sizes should use this softer freight market to better understand freight lanes, learn more about generative AI, brush up on cybersecurity best practices, and spend more time with customers. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 124: How Can Connectivity Create a More Efficient Supply Chain?
Adopt new tech, and you’ll run a more efficient operation ... right? But what happens when your trucking tech stack becomes unmanageable? With copious amounts of data sitting in different silos and redundant in-cab hardware, fleets are finding it difficult to keep their tech stack streamlined and efficient. In this episode, we ask, how can we cut down on these redundancies? How can carriers, shippers and logistics companies better connect these disparate data streams and work together more efficiently? To get answers, we talk with Trimble CEO Rob Painter to discuss the company’s continued investment in the freight transportation industry and its vision for a more connected supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 123: What Does It Take to Become the Best Technician in the Country?
To be a successful fleet technician, you not only need to diagnose and fix various problems with engines, transmissions, brakes, steering and suspensions, but also the determination to silence the bangs and clangs and hone in on the mechanical detail of a 60,000-pound machine. At this year's ATA TMCSuperTech, the nation's premier skills competition for commercial vehicle technicians, a room full of 418 left-brainers did just that — showing that they had the stuff to be special. What did the experts see in this year's field? What needs were the most surprising? Which skills stood out from the rest? Let's find out with those who proctored the exam, Technology and Maintenance Council Chairman Todd Cotier and Mark Zachos, president of DG Technologies. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 122: Inside the List: What Does It Take to be America's Greatest Truck Driver?
Is UPS' Gragg Wilson America's greatest truck driver? The new National Truck Driving Championships' grand champion has managed to survive the grueling, four-day gauntlet of skills competitions and tests to achieve the industry's most vaunted prize. In 37 years on the road, he has learned how to do the hard, labor-intensive job of truck driving for one of the nation's largest fleets just as successfully. In this special edition of RoadSigns, Wilson takes us through the competition's course, successful driving practices and how to attract new drivers. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 121: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 100 Private Carriers List
How much should a loaf of bread cost? How about a dress shirt? Or a gallon of gas? The cost of goods is subject to their respective levels of supply and demand. With today's strong consumer demand, private motor carriers are adapting — increasing tractor counts by the thousands, optimizing efficiency, improving asset utilization — and creating value for the end consumer. In this episode, Transport Topics' Seth Clevenger, Michael Freeze and Mike Senatore dissect private carrier operations — how fleets are adapting to this new, softened market and what it takes to be successful amid new mergers and increased consumer spending. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 120: Roundabout: What Does the Future of the Internal Combustion Engine Look Like in Commercial Trucking?
According to fleet executives, as well as maintenance managers, the death of the internal combustion engine may have been greatly exaggerated in spite of the excitement about electric powertrains. In fact, a panel in the House recently approved a bill that would block efforts meant to prevent the sale of internal combustion engines. We wonder, though, how long until sustainability goals challenge the predominance of internal combustion engines? What solutions are being explored to make diesel engines more efficient and compatible with alternative fuels? And, how can fleets prepare for a potential future with an entirely new driving force? To find answers, we bring in Ryan Manthiri, project leader at Shell Global Solutions, and Michael Grahe, head of operations at Navistar. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 119: Roundabout: How Has the Trucking Industry Become So 'Preventive' and 'Predictive' in 2023?
Quick! Can you explain the differences between predictive maintenance and preventive maintenance? Those who can usually save their heavy-duty truck fleets a lot of money and get a lot of kudos. Those who can’t? Well … Transport Topics RoadSigns host Michael Freeze has you covered. In this episode, he clarifies the differences between predictive and preventive. He gives fresh commentary on everything from how enhanced connectivity boosts your preventive maintenance plans to what predictive possibilities AI can offer your shop. Here come the clarity, the kudos and the savings! Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 118: How Can Third-Party Services Assist Growing Trucking Companies?
Finance is about the money you make, compliance is about the money you keep — if you follow the rules, the money you make will be the money you keep. Whether a motor carrier is expanding or not, keeping up with regulatory compliance rules and back-office maintenance can be expensive, confusing and hard to follow. In this episode, we examine the perks of outsourcing these costly tasks to designated specialists who can help companies stay on track with compliance regulation and business operations. How effective have these services proved to be? Let's find out with compliance guru Michael Precia, president and CEO of Fleetworthy Solutions, and back-office aficionado Dan Rutherford, lead CFO of logistics & transportation industries with Summit Virtual CFO by Anders. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 117: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 100 For-Hire Carriers
Despite a softer freight market, the largest trucking companies in North America managed to grow their businesses last year even as spot market rates dropped, truck capacity loosened and bargaining power swung back toward shippers. In the face of these challenges, how were the top players in trucking able to stay on top? What acquisitions and strategies proved to be successful? And how can you learn from their success stories to better your trucking business? In this episode, the makers of Transport Topics’ updated Top 100 For-Hire Carriers list examine trucking’s shifting business environment — and what it means for the supply chain. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 116: How Can In-Cab Technology and Coaching Help Drivers Reach Their Full Potential?
Your trucking business success depends on who you have at the wheel. The right truck driver in the right seat at the right time could mean everything for fuel economy and risk profile. All-star drivers focus on fundamentals; they tend to be tenacious, disciplined and hardworking. In fact, they are very likely to be running your loads already. Identifying them, Kriska’s Guy Broderick tells us, requires a lot of coaching know-how and a little help from today’s in-cab technologies. In this special edition of RoadSigns, Broderick shows how he successfully combined data reports and a simple understanding of human nature to become one of the best driver coaches in North America. Better, he brings these winning ways to you. Want to help your drivers to succeed behind the wheel? Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 115: How Can Predictive Analytics Help Fleets Improve Driver Safety?
Driver safety is pivotal for trucking companies, especially in a time when roadway crashes are at an all-time high. Determining dangerous driving behavior and predicting accidents is key to making roadways a safer space for drivers. Tapping into a variety of data sources, predictive analytics software and scoring driver practices helps to reduce guesswork. What will this new, predictive technology reveal? Will it help fleet managers discover behavior patterns in drivers? Are drivers on board with data-backed criticism? Hayden Cardiff, co-founder and chief innovation officer of Idelic, has the answers in this episode. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 114: How Can Trucking Navigate the Road to Net-Zero Emissions?
In 2018, Peter Voorhoeve became the president of Volvo Trucks North America. Since then he has overseen the rollout of Volvo's VNR Electric model and zero-emission initiatives such as the Volvo LIGHTS project, a union of public and private stakeholders creating a realistic ecosystem for battery-electric trucks. What will it take to make electric vehicles successful in the trucking industry? Is the North American electric grid ready for battery-powered commercial trucks? Let's find out. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 113: Can Outsourcing Business Functions Make Fleets More Efficient?
In this post-COVID era, where freight market fluctuations and staffing issues loom, trucking companies must find creative ways to keep up. For many, keeping up means looking for outside help for those arduous, nonfreight-related tasks. Today's trucking decision-makers employ professional specialists who handle tasks like freight billing, document management and call-center support. Globally, businesses of all types spent nearly $700 billion on outsourcing and shared services in 2022, according to a Deloitte study. They seem to believe that business function outsourcing can reduce operating costs, enable staffing flexibility and save time. But does it? How efficient are fleets with outsourcing business services? And how well have they managed the transition between in-house and outsourced teams? In this episode we find answers with Chad Crotty, vice president of sales at DDC FPO Solutions. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 112: Inside the List: Transport Topics’ 2023 Top 100 Logistics Companies
Destiny (and orders) fulfilled. Third-party logistics providers expanded their share of the freight market during the supply chain challenges and surging demand brought on by the pandemic. Now, in 2023, the most profitable third-party logistics companies are more collaborative, more attuned to the fast-changing market demands and more technologically prepared than they have ever been. In fact, they are brokering, forwarding, storing, processing and tracking freight so much more efficiently that forecasters expect the global 3PL market to grow significantly during the next five years. What does this growth mean for you and your business? How will this 3PL evolution impact the supply chain at large? And what does all of this mean for how freight is shipped and orders are fulfilled today? Find out in this special 'Inside The List' episode, featuring the Transport Topics 2023 Top 100 largest logistics companies. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
Episode 111: Can Connected Truck Data Produce Smarter Maintenance Plans?
Class 8 truck dealers are taking a new approach to customer service — they are implementing an adaptive, dealer-managed service plan that is paired with enhanced connectivity to cover all fleet preventative maintenance. Expanded visibility allows dealers to analyze a fleet’s needs, empowering their customers to make the right maintenance decisions. How? What factors feed the data to make these right decisions? Will this consulting approach to truck maintenance stick around and encourage other truck sellers to do the same? Find out with Mike Furst, director of contract service and business technology solutions at Volvo Trucks North America. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.
