The New Era of Fuel Purchasing
Long haul trucking relies heavily on information and communication technologies, which have changed dramatically since deregulation in 1980. However, one area that has remained largely unchanged is fuel transactions, which are still primarily managed with magnetic stripe cards and approval processes designed for outdated phone systems. New RFID tagging systems are being adopted by truck stops to replace magnetic stripe cards and better track fueling activity. Integrating fuel transaction data with a carrier's existing transportation management system promises to allow for new tools that give fleets clear visibility into the fueling process, similar to how dispatch software revolutionized routing and planning. A new fuel transaction software provides carriers with a cardless and RFID-based solution that directly connects carriers and truck stops, aiming to re
The New Era of Fuel Purchasing
- 1. Long haul trucking is driven by information and communication, two technologies that have changed in ways unimaginable when the modern truckload industry was defined by deregulation in 1980. In- cab communication, dispatch software, various optimization tools, document imaging, in-cab document scanning, paperless logs, maintenance software, anti-skid brake systems, and much, much more have dramatically changed how trucking companies manage everything from safety to routing, from dispatch to billing. However, one area remains virtually unchanged. Fuel transactions. Fuel, traditionally, was the second highest variable expense truckload carriers faced (next to drivers) and the consumption of fuel remains a major focus for fleets. For over two decades a wide variety of new and creative technologies have been created in order to reduce fuel costs. However, fuel transactions are still administered with virtually unmanageable magnetic stripe cards and an approval process designed around a telephone monopoly that no longer exists. It’s About Time! The New Era of Fuel Purchasing
- 2. 2 “Finally fleets have a realistic, manageable and transparent way to control fuel expense.” Fortunately, change is on the horizon. Truck stops are rapidly adopting RFID tags to replace the magnetic stripe card. In addition to providing additional security because of the “chip” at the heart of the tag, the new RFID systems are monitoring the presence of the truck or trailer during the actual fueling. Of even greater potential for improving the fueling process though, is the integration of information from the fuel transaction. Integrating the transaction as part of a carrier’s information will allow for new and creative management tools that will give fleets (and truck stops) a clear picture of the fuel transaction process. Just as the dispatch process changed with the onset of onboard computers integrated with software systems, the fuel transaction process is thankfully (and finally) going through the same change. LaunchIt’s client creates and develops innovative solutions for motor carriers: the first fuel transaction software that resides within a carrier’s existing transportation management system and uses the carrier’s live, operational data. Through real-time direct “carrier to truck stop” connectivity, this innovation provides carriers large and small with a secure and comprehensive solution that redefines the entire fuel transaction process. This cardless program that uses a RFID based system is currently being installed at fuel centers nationwide. It mimics purchase order systems used to control corporate purchases. Finally fleets have a realistic, manageable and transparent way to control fuel expense. For more information about how you can manage, control and reduce your fuel costs, contact LaunchIt at info@LaunchItPR.com.