Dynamic Routing Solutions are a Great Investment!

Whether you have just a few or a few hundred trucks, there is one tool that benefits carriers of all sizes. Yes, we are talking about dynamic routing solutions and software platforms! 

Powered by blockchain technology and featuring cutting edge AI and advanced algorithms, dynamic routing software is one of those "must-haves". In fact, when configured correctly, and used to its maximum potential, it can improve customer relationships significantly.  

Ultimately, your customers just want to be kept in the loop. They want to know where their packages are at any given time and receive updates in real-time. Most of all, they want to know that they can trust their carrier. Assurance that their carrier properly plans the delivery and safely transport their goods goes a long way. And thanks to well-built dynamic routing solutions, shippers can provide all that and more with a fair amount of ease.

In this blog post, we will be discussing why upgrading your current routing software to a dynamic platform is a smart investment. More specifically, we will dive in and take a peek at some of the more lucrative benefits of a solid dynamic routing platform. 

What are Dynamic Routing Solutions?   

In most instances, dynamic means that it features a certain level of flexibility or is always changing. And this is a fairly accurate description of what a dynamic routing platform does. It is able to be expanded upon, upgraded, and used in a variety of ways.

Utilizing blockchain technology, dynamic routing software platforms allow users to monitor all movements and actions in real-time. Best of all, it is capable of keeping a centralized, automatically updated record of all data. Acting as a ledger system of sorts, it makes simple work out of keeping data organized, concise, and accessible to all parties involved.

Dynamic routing software is rarely a single solution. In fact, it uses multiple independent platforms and technology solutions that work seamlessly together to improve the process of scheduling, routing, monitoring, and fine-tuning delivery routes. Furthermore, dynamic routing solutions are generally not what we would call "plug and play". It is typically custom designed by leading software providers, who work with professional 3rd party logistics companies that can configure routing software solutions specifically for each client. In other words, what works well for one person may not work well for another. 

Depending on the size of your fleet, dynamic routing software can be configured with tools ranging from simple applications and reports to live GPS tracking solutions. Companies like UPS, FedEx, and DHL use dynamic routing software to streamline their international shipping solutions. Most local LTL carriers and cab companies also make heavy use of these platforms.

Why Upgrading to Dynamic Routing Software is Beneficial  

While upgrading your software may prove costly, the benefit it provides pays for itself over and over again. So, yes, it is a bit of an investment but if you ask any large shipping company, they would tell you it is hard to survive without it. 

Fortunately, once you upgrade from an older system to a dynamic one, that's basically all you need to do. Occasionally the software will require an update, but even this can be set to run automatically when it is ready. And if you are working with a 3PL, they will inevitably oversee a lot of this process to keep you up and running as smooth as ever.

So, before you part with your hard-earned money, let's take a look at some of these benefits... 

True Route Optimization   

One of the biggest misconceptions of route optimization software is that it automatically understands what is important to you. What is optimal for one company, is simple waste to others. This is arguably the best reason why transportation leaders use dynamic routing software solutions. With older routing platforms, this isn't always the case.

Using similar technology as Bitcoin, dynamic routing software can be configured with tools that are relevant to individual transportation companies. LTL carriers can use it to optimize multiple stops, while smaller delivery companies can use the platform to improve better communication with customers, reduced miss deliveries, and save fuel. 

The important thing to remember about any route optimization software is that what might be important to you, may not be relevant to other users. This is ultimately the 'dynamic' part of dynamic platforms. 

Quicker Communication Methods

Often, today's consumer makes changes to deliveries after they have already scheduled it. When this happens, it impacts the efficiency of the shipper's route planning efforts.

Dynamic routing software featured a variety of communication tools to help keep everyone on the same page at all times. This permits dispatchers to contact their delivery drivers via text message, or app, to send the updated information. From there, the driver can make the best decision for that specific delivery.

This technology can also automatically redirect and correct delivery stops based on these changes submitted by the customer. This happens usually within minutes of receiving the notification.

Improving Route Costs

Another benefit that dynamic routing software can provide are the reporting tools that help companies decrease their operational costs.

This can include optimizing deliveries for improved stops per hour and fine-tuning routes to reduce fuel consumption. Additionally, it can review driver performance standards, or optimizing route efficiency based on customer need or service commitment levels.

In the end, the robust reporting tools of these platforms help improve the companies bottom-line profits. 

Final Thoughts

Technology is always evolving.

In fact, by the time you read this article, it's possible that a new, software platform is preparing to launch. The key to ensuring you stay ahead of the competition is by working with a 3PL who specializes in such technology. And lucky for you, that's exactly what we do here at Redwood Logistics.

Here at Redwood Logistics, we've been helping supply chains and transportation-related businesses improve their software solutions for many years. Our team of logistics professionals and IT experts work closely together to offer our clients only the latest in technological advancements in the logistics space. 

If you are looking to improve your route optimization software with a dynamic platform, reach out to the experts at Redwood Logistics before investing in any new solution.