Lightening traffic congestion: strategies for transporters

While congestion is often unavoidable, there are strategies that can help manage high-traffic areas

Urban traffic congestion is a shared concern among all drivers. However, for the road transport industry, it translates into significant delays and losses. According to a recent report from the American Transportation Research Institute, in 2021, these delays left over 460,000 commercial truck drivers idle for a year, resulting in a total cost exceeding $94 billion for the sector. This equates to an annual expense of over $6,824 per truck due to congestion nationwide.

The rise of e-commerce, driven by platforms like Amazon and delivery services such as UPS, USPS, and FedEx, has significantly contributed to increased truck traffic. Additionally, ongoing road renovations have played a crucial role in this surge. While congestion is often unavoidable, according to FleetOwner, strategies can be employed to manage high-traffic areas and reduce losses.

Strategies to avoid traffic congestion

Route planning

There are software tools available for route planning that gather real-time traffic data. Although accidents are unpredictable, knowing peak congestion times on specific routes can enhance delivery times. By analyzing this data, transport companies can improve efficiency, meet delivery deadlines, and reduce fuel consumption. Proper route planning helps avoid long periods stuck in traffic jams.

Alternative delivery schedules

Another strategy to avoid traffic congestion is implementing new delivery schedules. While not feasible for all deliveries, adjusting some to times of lighter traffic can enhance overall company efficiency. This doesn’t necessarily mean completely changing established schedules but rather avoiding peak congestion times to effectively meet deadlines.

Regular maintenance

While this strategy doesn’t prevent traffic jams, it does help effectively manage them. A well-maintained truck is less likely to overheat or consume excessive fuel. Additionally, advanced engine technology and fuel-saving measures can significantly reduce costs. When facing unavoidable congestion, it’s crucial to ensure vehicles are prepared to navigate through it smoothly.

Driver training

Another strategy to mitigate traffic congestion is training drivers to handle it effectively. The more familiar drivers are with local traffic conditions and alternative routes, the better they can navigate congested areas. Providing training on vehicle technology, especially to older drivers, promotes better understanding and reduces stress. A well-informed driver about their equipment and routes is more capable of working calmly and efficiently.