Delivery route optimization has been used by fleet managers across all industries for a very long time. Meanwhile, new strategies have become available as technology has grown, resulting in better route optimization methods than the old standbys. If you’re not using the best route optimization strategies, you’re likely missing out on opportunities to maximize your fleet’s productivity and communication. You must be up to date on the latest route optimization strategies, so you’re not left behind your competition. This article will discuss past and present strategies for route optimization and the new advantages of current technology.
The Core Route Optimization Strategies
There are three route optimization strategies that fleets use, and they are not all created equally. We will break them down below.
Static Routing
Static routing is the process of planning your routes on an annual or semi-annual basis based on geographic areas. This method is most commonly used by fleets that deliver to the same places regularly. However, there is a significant challenge with static routing, and it is that it relies on consistency. This method lacks flexibility. While this method may work well for a fleet that makes the same trips with the same stops every day, an issue may arise if there is a sudden traffic problem or construction delay.
Dynamic Routing
Dynamic routes are more flexible than static routes because they are established daily. This method also integrates historical and forecasted traffic patterns, decreasing delays significantly compared to static routing. You can make changes to your routes until the moment the truck departs. This method often increases customer satisfaction, speeds up delivery time, and reduces mileage. You may even get more use of your equipment due to reduced wear and tear and idle time.
Real-Time Dynamic Routing
Real-time is similar to dynamic routing because, in both cases, your fleet can adapt to sudden changes. The difference is, in real-time dynamic routing, it is not once a day but in real-time. No matter what happens throughout the day, using real-time route optimization software, dispatchers can adjust the route at any time to account for it. This includes new orders that come in throughout the day, cancellations, sudden traffic problems, and anything else that may occur. It’s the best option for delivery fleets because it is the most efficient and streamlined.
The Benefits of Real-Time Dynamic Routing
If the benefits of real-time dynamic routing align with your business’s goals, you should consider it as a necessity for your fleet.
- Reduce Fuel Consumption: Real-time route optimization will find either the shortest or most efficient route for your fleet so that it does not waste fuel idling or taking unnecessary steps.
- Utilize Assets Correctly: You might currently be using too many trucks for the area that you’re covering. When you plug your stops into route optimization software, it will tell you exactly how many trucks you need, making it easier to utilize your fleet to its full potential.
- Improve Delivery Windows: Meeting deadlines is a necessity in this competitive business environment. With route optimization, you’re not only more likely to meet your deadlines, but you can even narrow your delivery windows since you have a better idea of your routes.
- Adapt to Customer Expectations: Customer expectations regarding delivery are becoming increasingly demanding. Route optimization software allows you to meet these demands and provide excellent customer service.
Invest in Route Optimization Software Today!
If your fleet is behind the times, there’s still time to catch up with route optimization software from Azuga! Our software is state-of-the-art and is sure to streamline your fleet’s operations in no time at all. Find out what you can do with route optimization software by trying out a free demo today!
