Equipment Trends for Freight Shippers

What's in this article?

Command Steer Advanced Active Steering System
Slow Steaming
Voyage Optimization
SkySails
Using Low Carbon Fuels
Refrigerated Trailer Powered by eNow Solar Energy
EROAD Clarity Dashcam
Predictive Shipping
Smart Container Tracking
Digital Sensors to Provide Drivers with Cost-Saving Data
Conclusion

Freight shipping has become a big business over the past few years. It's not just truck drivers anymore. There are also many new types of equipment being used to move freight around the country.

As a freight shipper, you've probably noticed how quickly technology changes. In fact, most of the equipment you see on the road was designed 20+ years ago.

This means that you need to stay ahead of the curve with your fleet planning. Otherwise, you risk losing customers to your competitors who are using newer equipment.

This article will help you understand the latest trends in freight transportation and equip you with the knowledge necessary to make smart decisions about your next shipment.

Command Steer Advanced Active Steering System

The Command Steer advanced active steering system is designed to provide better control over the vehicle while reducing driver fatigue and lowering muscle strain.

The system uses sensors to detect the position of the driver's hands and feet while monitoring the speed and direction of the car. These data are used to determine how much force the driver needs to apply to the wheel in order to maintain his/her desired path.

In addition, the system automatically adjusts the steering angle to keep the vehicle on track. This helps the driver maintain the intended course.

If the driver wants to go straight ahead, the system will decrease the power applied to the wheels on the outside of the curve. This makes it easier for the driver to steer around corners.

In addition to improving the driving experience, the system reduces the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue.

When the driver becomes sleepy, he/she tends to drift off course. With this new system, the driver can easily tell when he or she is getting tired. At that point, the system will take over and continue to guide the vehicle safely.

Slow Steaming

Slow steaming is a common trend used in the shipping industry. Ships are able to save up to 10% of their fuel consumption by slowing down from 25 knots to around 20 knots. This allows the vessel to use less power while still maintaining speed.

However, most ships already run at speeds of 22 to 24 knots, so slowing down even further would be a simple way to save money. In fact, some companies actually encourage slow steaming because it helps reduce emissions.

Voyage Optimization

Voyage optimization allows freight shipping companies to choose the optimal route for their vessels based on predicted weather conditions and cargo volumes. This process reduces fuel usage and carbon dioxide emissions.

SkySails

SkySails are a growing trend for freight shippers. They are a way of cutting down on fuel consumption. Sky sails can also reduce emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional ships. This technology is already being used around the world.

The idea behind sky sails is simple: A ship uses wind power to move forward. Instead of propellers, it uses wings that generate lift and drag forces. These sails use the same principles as kites do; however, unlike kites, they are able to fly high above the ground.

In addition to reducing fuel consumption, skysails can help protect the environment. They don't produce noise pollution like diesel engines. And because they're powered by wind rather than fossil fuels, there's no carbon dioxide emission.

Using Low Carbon Fuels

Shipping companies are hopping on this trend to reduce their environmental footprint by switching to low-carbon fuels. This will allow them to save money on fuel costs, and it also helps protect the environment.

Using low-carbon fuels cuts down the amounts of harmful emissions produced by shipping containers. This is because ships use diesel engines to power their propulsion systems. These engines produce nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and particulate matter (PM). NOx causes smog and acid rain, while SO2 contributes to ground-level ozone.

The development of low-carbon fuel could provide a solution to this problem. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Southampton found that biofuel blends such as B20 (bioethanol blended with 20% petrol) and B50 (bioethanol mixed with 50% petrol) could potentially cut down on harmful emissions by up to 60%.

There are several different types of low-carbon fuels out there, including biodiesel, biomethane, hydrogen, and synthetic gas. Each type of fuel has its advantages and disadvantages.

Refrigerated Trailer Powered by eNow Solar Energy

The kind of trailer features a solar panel system that powers the refrigeration unit. It allows customers to save money on fuel costs, and it reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

EROAD Clarity Dashcam

The EROAD Clarity Dashcam is a great product for freight truckers who want to see what's happening around them while driving without having to look away from the road.

This device records video footage in 1080p HD quality, and it features a wide range of useful functions such as motion detection, night vision, and audio recording. With the help of the built-in GPS system, you can easily view where the vehicle was located if an incident occurs.

However, there are some obstacles to this new technology. For example, the technology needs to learn how to recognize objects, detect traffic lights, navigate complicated intersections, and deal with unexpected situations like accidents, construction zones, and weather conditions.

Predictive Shipping

Predictive shipping uses AI to predict when shipments will arrive at their destination. It can then alert shippers when shipments are about to arrive so they can prepare for delivery. This way, shippers don't have to wait until the last minute to receive their goods.

Smart Container Tracking

Smart container tracking uses sensors to track the location of containers. Sensors can be placed inside or outside of containers. They can monitor temperature, humidity, pressure, vibration, light levels, and other factors.

However, placing sensors inside containers is not always feasible. Some items cannot fit into containers, and some containers are too large to place sensors inside. In addition, sensors may need to be replaced frequently due to damage caused by shifting cargo.

Digital Sensors to Provide Drivers with Cost-Saving Data

Trucking companies are increasingly using data collected from digital sensors to save money. This technology provides drivers with information about their vehicles, such as speed, position, temperature, and even cargo weight.

By analyzing this data, trucking companies can make better decisions regarding route planning, maintenance, and driver scheduling. They can also use it to reduce fuel consumption and cut costs.

The benefits of sensor technology extend beyond just saving money. A recent study found that trucks equipped with sensors had fewer accidents, lower rates of equipment failure, and less downtime due to mechanical issues.

In addition, trucks equipped with sensors spent less time waiting for traffic lights and signals and were able to travel longer distances without refueling.

Conclusion

The world is changing rapidly. New technologies are being developed every day. In particular, we have seen a dramatic change in freight shipping technology over the past decade.

With new technologies and innovations constantly being introduced, shippers must remain vigilant to ensure their operations continue to thrive.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we believe it's important to stay on top of the latest technology trends so we can provide the best shipping services possible for our valued customers. Contact us today to find out how we can meet all of your shipping needs.