The auto shipping industry is experiencing incredible surges in demand as many people are increasingly interested in buying cars online and skipping visits to the dealership altogether. People buying cars online will need a way to transport their vehicles to their doorstep. The answer? Car shipping companies.
If you are relocating to another State and want to save valuable driving time, the answer is car shipping companies. Shipping a car is super convenient and the entire process is seamless especially if you are using reputable car shipping companies such as A-1 Auto Transport.
The shipping industry isn’t the same as it was in the past. To meet customers’ demands and increase satisfaction, the auto shipping industry has undergone a lot of changes over the years. These changes were mainly brought by advancements in automotive technology although the industry also utilizes non-automotive technology, especially in the day-to-day running of the business.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the technology, automotive and otherwise, that has changed the car shipping business. Here we go.
Automotive Technologies
Below are automotive technologies that has had a significant impact on the auto shipping industry
– More Efficient Engines
Fuel is one of the largest inputs/investments in the auto shipping industry and small changes in fuel costs and consumption can have significant impacts on profit and competitiveness. And thanks to improvement in automotive technology which has resulted in more efficient engines, auto companies can increase profit margins and be more competitive by having energy-efficient trailers in their fleet.
It’s also worth mentioning that fuel prices are hardly stable with prices spiking every now and then. Auto companies don’t have control over fuel price and seemingly small savings on fuel consumption can be the difference between being competitive or not.
Cost is one of the most important things to customers in the auto shipping industry. It’s generally expensive to ship a car and any company that can offer quotes better than the competition without compromising quality will have a significant advantage. And energy efficient engines may be what a company needs to achieve this.
– Aerodynamic Trailers
Car haulers and trailers used in the car shipping industry have evolved over the years to improve aerodynamics and improve fuel efficiency. At highway speeds, more than half of the fuel consumption of a typical trailer is used to overcome aerodynamic drag. And improving trailer and car hauler aerodynamics can result in significant fuel savings.
The front of the trailers is one of the main areas that contribute to aerodynamic drag and improvement in technology has resulted in a “nose job” for trailers. Nowadays, trailers utilize composite front bumpers and sloped front windshields to reduce aerodynamic drag. Some trailers also have pedestal door mirrors.
Other ways of reducing aerodynamic drag and improving fuel efficiency include attaching side skirts to trailers, closing the gap between the truck and the trailers, and reducing the tailwind.
– Advanced GPS Systems
GPS systems are improving with every passing year and many auto shipping companies are equipping their fleet with advanced GPS systems. This is of tremendous advantage to drivers who are one of the integral parts of the auto shipping companies.
With advanced GPS systems, drivers are able to navigate with ease, even on unfamiliar routes. Auto companies can also monitor trucks remotely and ensure drivers are taking designated routes and do not make unsanctioned stops.
Other Technologies That Have Changed The Car Shipping Industry
It’s not only automotive technology that’s behind the evolution of the car shipping industry. Below are other technologies that have also been crucial in the rise of the car shipping industry.
– Fleet Management Software
Fleet management software is a game changer in the auto shipping industry. As the name implies, this software makes it easy for car shipping to manage their large fleet of vehicles. With Fleet Management Software, an auto shipping company knows where every truck is at any point in time, the route they are on, how to choose the best routes, monitor fuel consumption, track driver behavior, keep up with vehicle condition, and schedule vehicle maintenance.
Without fleet management software, doing all of the above tasks won’t be as convenient and this is why car shipping companies usually invest in good fleet management software.
– Integrated Logistics Software
Another important technology that has changed the car shipping industry is integrated logistics software. The aim of this software is to pool all the resources and personnel of an organization, in this case a car shipping company, together to result in customized solutions, fast car delivery, and better customer service.
Many auto manufacturers have developed their processes to handle any type of customer request. Whether you are looking to transport a newly bought vehicle, or move a prototype or antique car, they are processes in place for speedy delivery and positive customer experience.
In an extremely competitive sector like the auto shipping industry, good customer service/experience can give a massive competitive advantage.