Technology in LTL

While some may look to software platforms like Amrate as the benchmark for technology adoption in the LTL industry, it’s far from the only area technology touches. Amrate and other software platforms like it empower businesses and the warehouse managers within those businesses to source and track shipments from a variety of carriers.

Once the carrier accepts those shipments, though, a driver in a truck still needs to move the freight from point A to point B. The driver will log their hours, stops, service, etc. This used to be done on forms that the driver manually filled out. Such isn’t the case anymore. In 2015, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandated that truck drivers replace the pen and paper and move to electronic logging devices (ELDs). The ELD mandate forced the industry to adopt the technology they might not have otherwise. Now, truck drivers log everything electronically.

This logged data is often delivered to cloud-based software platforms so shipping managers have near real-time information regarding shipment and driver status. Additionally, ELDs have forced drivers to adhere to a “maximum hours” rule, preventing them from driving more than they are legally allowed. As of December 16, 2019, Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) became mandatory.

Transportation Management Systems

As mentioned above, software platforms focused on shipping management are at the heart of most of the advances in the LTL industry. As supply chain logistics demands increase, 3PLs and carriers must adapt to meet this demand.

Larger companies are adopting TMS systems internally, while smaller businesses are looking to companies like Amware to provide them with a cloud-based solution. Unlike other 3PLs, though, Amware can integrate its TMS solution, Amrate, into existing ERP and logistics management software. As supply chain logistics intensify, Amrate offers cloud-based access, making it easier for both large companies, who adopt Amrate internally, and smaller businesses, looking for advanced yet accessible tools. This integration is proving invaluable to companies as shipping managers can pinpoint where shipments are arriving on time and where they are not. By utilizing these data points, shipping and logistics managers are better equipped to make decisions that will positively impact their supply chain.

Partner with a 3PL Who Has the Right Technology

As a 3PL with over 20 years of LTL and shipping experience, Amware knows LTL. Whether it’s sourcing carriers for shipments, tracking LTL shipments, or managing claims on lost or damaged freight, Amware can do it all.

Amware’s newly updated LTL software platform, Amrate, helps clients source, track, and manage LTL shipments in the cloud or as an integrated part of their transportation management system. For a free 30-day trial of Amrate, click below and see why you’ll needn’t look any further for your LTL shipping solutions.