FEATURE LOGISTICS
DRIVING FLEET MANAGEMENT forward with telematics
Logistics operations like Redhead International are overcoming the issues involved in managing an international fleet with advances in technologies including telematics
A
growing supply chain brings with it great opportunities for logistics
companies and an equal share of considerations: maintaining a cost- effective fleet while preserving supply chain speed, security and reliability. For fleet managers of companies like Redhead International, one of the UK’s biggest independently owned logistics companies, this poses a challenge: delivering outstanding customer service in a fast and cost-effective structure. In the 21st century the logistics
industry operates at a fast pace which means service providers are investing in the latest technology to stay ahead. Regular updates on the progress of
consignments and delivery times ensure everyone is kept in the loop at all times. In addition, logistics has seen advances in telematics. Although these systems can be a costly investment freight companies are already reaping the benefits. Modern telematics systems are much more than a way of tracking a vehicle’s location or recovering a stolen lorry.
RECORD ACCURATE TIME SHEETS The initial benefits for fleet managers came from simply being able to record accurate time sheets and knowing where vehicle fleets are on the road. However, advances in technology now
mean that today’s telematics systems can tell fleet managers how a vehicle is being driven, actual MPG and CO2 emissions, reporting data and an accurate record of fuel consumption and the vehicle’s overall condition. Being able to analyse data including
fuel consumption and driver performance results in an improved service for customers. By monitoring driver behaviour and their driving technique the company can ensure vehicles are driven in an efficient manner which in turn leads to lower fuel bills, maintenance costs and competitive pricing for customers. While the use of telematics
has led to a decrease in fleet costs, trailer capacity continue to have an impact on the bottom line of customers and freight companies alike as it determines how much of a company’s product can go on a specific vehicle. Fleet managers are therefore looking for ways to improve their vehicle capabilities and the capacity of goods they can carry. Redhead International has invested
heavily in double deck and vari-deck trailers which have allowed them to maximise loads on their trunk vehicles to create a better balance between weight and cubic capacity.
TRIAL OF LONGER TRAILERS A new operational trial of longer trailers for articulated goods vehicles has been launched within the UK; licences for 1000 trailers were provided to approved haulage firms. This trial aims to see if using longer semi-trailers brings about anticipated environmental and economic
“Today’s telematics systems can tell fleet managers how a vehicle is being driven, actual MPG and CO2 emissions, reporting data, accurate
record of fuel consumption and the vehicle’s overall condition S8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 | MATERIALS HANDLING & LOGISTICS ”
The new trailers will allow for a greater number of consignments to be carried while using much the same amount of fuel
benefits. The test run is expected to save over 3,000 tonnes of CO2 with overall economic benefits estimated at £33 million over 10 years. For organisations like Redhead who
have been granted two licences this scheme offers huge potential. The new trailers will allow for a greater
number of consignments to be carried while using much the same amount of fuel. The issues inherent with managing an international fleet are expansive. Firms need to maintain vehicles to
meet stringent government regulations, manage fuel consumption and carbon emissions and ensure the health and safety of drivers while delivering the same high quality service to customers. With a regular scheduled services to Europe, Scandinavia, North Africa, Middle East and CIS countries, Redhead has grown into one of the leading freight operators in the industry, handling over 25,000 consignments per month from depots in Bradford, Basildon, Cumbernauld, Tamworth, Belfast and Dublin.
Redhead International T: 01827 337171
www.redhead-int.com
/ MATERIALSHANDLINGLOGISTICS
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