Unlocking Efficiency: Transforming Transportation Management with TransportPro | #DISPATCHESH

Summary

In this podcast episode, Kelly Fedick from Transport Pro discusses the importance of technology in the transportation industry, emphasizing the need for robust TMS solutions to streamline operations. She highlights how Transport Pro's cloud-based system facilitates collaboration, automates processes, and combats fraud, offering a scalable solution for brokers and carriers. Fedick shares insights on the challenges of change management and the company's commitment to staying ahead with continuous innovation.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The tech world is rapidly evolving, and without technology to support workflow, businesses may fall behind due to the need for better communication and connectivity among all parties.
• 🚚 Technology is crucial for trucking companies with more than 10 trucks, as it moves them beyond basic spreadsheets to more sophisticated systems that offer better communication and updates to customers.
• 🤝 Transport Pro focuses on fostering seamless collaboration between supply chain partners, optimizing dispatch and load management, and simplifying billing and settlements through its cloud-based TMS.
• 🔄 The company's cloud-based approach allows for accessibility to data from anywhere at any time, providing convenience and real-time updates, which is essential in the non-stop freight industry.
• 📈 Transport Pro's system is designed to be the 'control tower of operations,' facilitating communication and connectivity to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
• 📊 The system offers a freight operations dashboard for a clear view of available loads, planned shipments, and in-transit updates, which is vital for matching freight with driver availability.
• 📲 Built-in tools like text messaging and document exchange simplify communication with drivers and carriers, keeping all relevant information organized and accessible within the system.
• 🔗 Transport Pro supports EDI for shippers, which automates the process of load tendering and updates, saving time and reducing manual entry errors.
• 🛠️ The platform is adaptable to various needs, from small operations to large enterprises, and is designed to grow with the company without requiring a system change.
• 🛑 The biggest challenge in implementing new software is the resistance to change and the fear of new technology, but once companies overcome this, they often see significant efficiency improvements.
• 💼 Transport Pro's system is all-inclusive, offering a comprehensive package that covers everything from dispatch to safety, billing, accounting, and preventative maintenance without additional costs for modules or integrations.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Transport Pro's technology?

Transport Pro focuses on providing cloud-based Transportation Management Solutions that foster seamless collaboration between supply chain partners, optimize dispatch and load management, and simplify billing and settlement.

How does the constant evolution of technology impact the transportation industry?

The constant evolution of technology impacts the transportation industry by driving the need for better communication, connectivity, automation, and collaboration among all parties involved in the supply chain.

Why is it necessary for a trucking company to have more than just a spreadsheet to manage their operations?

It is necessary because as trucking companies grow beyond a certain size, spreadsheets become insufficient for managing complex operations, communication, and updates required for efficient workflow and customer demands for shipment visibility.

What role does Transport Pro play in the area of driver settlements?

Transport Pro automates the generation of driver settlements, ensuring accurate and timely payments to drivers, and reducing the manual effort involved in this process.

How does Transport Pro address the issue of fraudulent activity in the transportation industry?

Transport Pro addresses fraudulent activity by implementing features like two-factor authentication, integration with platforms designed to catch bad actors, and emphasizing the importance of documenting and verifying contact information.

What was Kelly Fedick's background before joining Transport Pro?

Kelly Fedick had a background in journalism with a degree in the field and experience in communications roles, including working in the Publications department for a large government contractor.

How has Transport Pro adapted to the changing needs of the transportation industry since its inception?

Transport Pro has adapted by staying cloud-based since its inception, allowing for easy access to data from anywhere, and continually evolving its platform to include new features and integrations based on customer feedback and industry trends.

What are some of the key integrations that Transport Pro offers to enhance its service?

Key integrations include electronic data interchange (EDI) for shippers, electronic logging device (ELD) services for real-time location and status updates, and integrations with fuel card providers and factoring companies for streamlined settlements.

How does Transport Pro facilitate communication and collaboration among supply chain partners?

Transport Pro facilitates communication and collaboration through built-in tools like text messaging, customer and owner-operator portals for visibility, and automatic updates pushed to relevant parties.

What are some of the challenges faced when implementing Transport Pro's software?

The main challenge is the resistance to change, as companies accustomed to older platforms or manual processes may be hesitant to adopt new technology, despite its potential to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

How does Transport Pro ensure that its technology remains up-to-date and competitive?

Transport Pro ensures its technology remains competitive by having a dedicated development team that stays informed about industry trends, integrates customer feedback, and continuously rolls out new features and updates.