Trucking Tech Today: Fleet training, AI, load boards, rating engines, and lease management updates
Key takeaways
- Fleet training and certification programs like Fleetio Academy could improve team performance and onboarding efficiency.
- Survey finds that AI, automation, and TMS integrations are boosting routing, rating, and operational efficiency across fleets.
- New tools for load boards, LTL rating, and lease management can help fleets cut costs and streamline workflows.
Fleetio launches Fleetio Academy to boost fleet team training and performance
Fleetio has launched Fleetio Academy, a self-paced training program designed to help fleet professionals improve performance and maximize the value of digital tools. The program offers role-based certification paths, interactive video tutorials, step-by-step guidance, and resources like webinars, quick-reference guides, and tip sheets.
“Fleetio Academy gives my team quick, comprehensive lessons that can easily fit into our day, making onboarding new team members simple,” said Chad Hartig, fleet maintenance manager at United Site Services. “The interactive videos and step-by-step guidance provide us with a trusted reference place to keep everyone aligned and informed.”
Fleetio Academy is part of a broader suite of resources, including on-site training, a help center, and a support team, all designed to equip fleet teams with the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Learn more…
Survey shows automation and AI adoption driving performance in transportation operations
Descartes Systems Group’s 9th Annual Global Transportation Management Benchmark Survey found that 81% of shippers and logistics service providers view transportation management as a competitive differentiator. Despite this, only 17% of respondents report fully automated processes, with below-average performers trailing in automation, AI adoption, and digital maturity. Generative AI is widely used, with 96% of respondents applying it to data entry, route/load optimization, and freight forecasting or automated load matching.
“This year’s survey shows a sector making meaningful progress in elevating transportation from a cost center to a strategic driver of customer value and business growth,” said Mike Hane, director, product marketing, transportation management at Descartes.
The survey also revealed that 80% of companies plan to increase TMS investment, prioritizing performance management, visibility, and fleet routing, while 72% expect at least 5% annual revenue growth in the next two years. Learn more…
DAT One adds new load categories to support vans, box trucks, and power-only freight
DAT Freight & Analytics recently added eight new load and equipment categories to the DAT One load board, including Sprinter-style cargo vans, box trucks, and power-only load options. The updates make it easier for carriers with these vehicles to find specialized freight and for brokers to locate available capacity.
“Adding specific categories for vans, box trucks, and power-only loads is one of our most frequent requests from customers,” Christian Greiner, DAT senior director, carrier segment growth, said. “These updates make DAT One easier to use and reflect the breadth of specialized freight on the load board.”
The new categories also support e-commerce and last-mile delivery growth, helping brokers and carriers of all sizes match specialized freight with the right equipment. Learn more…
Ward Transport integrates CLI FACTS rate engine to improve LTL operations
Carrier Logistics (CLI) recently announced that Ward Transport & Logistics has integrated its TMS with the FACTS Rate Engine to enhance rating capabilities for LTL operations. The integration allows Ward’s TMS to automatically perform rating through CLI’s API, improving efficiency and supporting scalable, reliable operations.
"Accurate rating is mission-critical for LTL carriers,” Mike Zupon, VP of technology at Ward Transport & Logistics, said. “CLI's rating module has enabled us to handle more rate requests efficiently, helping us secure shipments that might otherwise have gone elsewhere. By implementing their solution, we're ensuring that our management platform remains reliable and scalable, future-proofing this essential capability, and ultimately improving our customers' experience.”
The FACTS platform, enhanced with AI, provides optimization, dispatch, routing, and back-office tools that help Ward boost productivity, reduce costs, and offer real-time visibility. Learn more…
Fleet Advantage launches OffLease Reimagined to speed heavy-duty truck lease surrenders
Fleet Advantage recently launched OffLease Reimagined, a cloud-based software tool that modernizes the heavy-duty truck lease surrender process. Integrated into the company's ATLAAS platform, it centralizes inspections, documentation, and repair estimates and automates communication, cutting average surrender timelines from 91 days to 30.
“OffLease Reimagined represents a significant leap forward in heavy-duty truck fleet management,” Brian Holland, president and CEO of Fleet Advantage, said. “We are proud to introduce our latest innovative solution, which not only streamlines the lease surrender process and improves financial performance for our customers but also earned the recognition of ELFA’s Excellence in Innovation Award. Congratulations to the entire Fleet Advantage team for their commitment and dedication to bringing this amazing product to our customers.”
The platform has already saved fleets millions in avoided lease extension charges and earned ELFA’s Excellence in Innovation Award for redefining best practices in equipment finance. Learn more…