If you want to be a trucker, you might start with one truck initially. Like any business, kick-starting a trucking business is difficult – but – it can be done. You will want to start with setting up a trucking business plan and completing your paperwork. If you are operating in Indiana, you must apply for an indiana DOT number or a DOT number in your respective state.
You will also need to get insured, get the mandatory trucking equipment, and then you can start managing your trucking business.
Before you kick-start your business, you will want to know some trucking tech trends for 2023 and beyond.
Hydrogen-Fueled Trucks
For the last few years, hydrogen-fueled trucks have been in discussions in states like California that are demanding to have zero-emission vehicles on the street with the ultimate goal of having cleaner air till 2035.
So, when it comes to clean energy trucks, hydrogen-fuel trucks will be taking the lead. In case you are wondering about the working mechanism of hydrogen-fueled trucks, you should know that these are electric trucks that incorporate a fuel cell instead of the typical battery used to power the vehicle’s motor.
Regarding the motor mechanism, hydrogen-fueled trucks use fuel cells that convert the hydrogen’s chemical energy into electricity, which is then used to power the truck’s motor. The lack of stations that enable hydrogen fueling is the primary reason that the number of hydrogen-powered trucks is few.
However, it is estimated that this innovation regarding vehicle technologies will improve the environment by enabling cleaner air. So, if you are considering entering the trucking industry, you can consider opting for hydrogen-fueled trucks.
Autonomous Vehicles
Self-driving is trending, which is why autonomous trucking is trending. Despite the trend for autonomous trucks, you will need a person in the driver’s seat. Autonomous technology is developing at a rapid pace, which is why it is no surprise that several companies are testing autonomous trucks.
Nonetheless, just like any other technology, it is essential to mention that several challenges must be overcome before autonomous trucks can get properly deployed on a wider scale. It is estimated that autonomous trucks will have a crucial impact on the trucking company in the coming years.
Currently, the tests that are conducted on autonomous vehicles are duly supervised so that the driver can instantly take over if needed.
Fleet Management System
Another technology that you can immensely benefit from in the trucking industry is FMS, also known as the Fleet Management System, which will assess and track data linked with your fleet of trucks. The Fleet Management System will grant you proper insight into several factors, such as the following:
- HOS (hours of service) violations
- Safety Incidents
- Engine Hours
- Route Performance
- Inspection Results
- Fuel Usage
The essential benefit of using a Fleet Management System is that it will help you better understand your fleets and assess areas in your trucking business that might need improvement. Using an FMS, you can optimize your time slot management by assessing the best possible route for freight haul based on the potential of saving costs.