JUNE
2020
MEDIUM-DUTY SHOWCASE: FORD F-550
TELEMATICS FOR
EQUIPMENT
IT’S POSSIBLE
WITH STELLAR
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
REMOTE
OPERATIONS
MANAGE YOUR FLEET
FROM HOME
GO GREEN &
SAVE MONEY
PROPANE AUTOGAS
LOWERS COSTS
READY MIX
PRODUCTIVITY
INCREASE PROFIT & SAFETY
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JUNE 20206
INDUSTRY NEWS
SAMSARA LAUNCHES INTEGRATED
FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTION FOR
FORD VEHICLES
Commercial Solutions as part of a continued effort
to unlock the power of embedded telematics data
for fleet customers. This launch ushers in a turnkey
fleet management platform.
www.samsara.com/marketplace/ford.
NORTHWEST EQUIPMENT SALES OPENS
MACK DEALERSHIP IN BURBANK,
WASHINGTON
www.macktrucks.com.
BRIDGESTONE LAUNCHES
BANDAG MAXTREAD LINE FOR
COMMERCIAL FLEETS
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
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JUNE 20208
INDUSTRY NEWS
popular Bandag retread patterns outlined below:
that scans each casing from bead to bead in under two minutes
www.bandag.com.
RAM LAUNCHES SECOND PHASE OF US
ARMED FORCES-INSPIRED, LIMITED-
EDITION ‘BUILT TO SERVE’ TRUCKS
www.ramtrucks.com.
NEW VIDEO SHOWCASES WHAT’S NEXT
FOR PROPANE AUTOGAS
In an effort to showcase the zero-emissions outlook of
propane: the energy source for fleets now and into the
www.propane.com.
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JUNE 202010
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
As restrictions are lifted
across most states and with
warm weather upon us, it is
important for truck drivers to
consider proper management
of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
used in most diesel-powered
trucks. Jeffrey Harmening
of the American Petroleum
Institute fills us in on the
dos and don’ts of proper DEF
handling and management.
Run Smoothly with
High-quality DEF
BUYING AND MANAGING API-CERTIFIED DEF
JEFF HARMENING
MWS: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO
ENSURE PROPER PRACTICES WHEN
HANDLING AND STORING DEF IN
WARM SUMMER MONTHS?
HARMENING:
purified water and must be handled and
special care to protect it from high
temperatures that can decrease its
useful life. Now with the need for added
We want to be sure that truck
owners to help them purchase high-
handle and store it so as to protect it
during warm weather months.
MWS: WHAT ARE TIPS YOU CAN
SHARE FOR DRIVERS PURCHASING
DEF AT A SERVICE STATION?
HARMENING:
While regulations in many states
do not include it. API recommends
identified at the fill-up location.
printed on the bottle and be sure to
use it before this date as the product
traceability code for a date. This date
MWS: WHAT SHOULD OPERATORS
CONSIDER WHEN STORING DEF IN
A VEHICLE?
HARMENING: API recommends that
recommended storage temperatures
MWS: ANY TIPS FOR THOSE
PURCHASING DEF FOR SHOP USE?
HARMENING: API has found that
the biggest misconception by fleet
managers is the belief that if the urea
shipment. Purchasing API-licensed
JUNE 2020
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
11
products are not only tested before
but they are also subject to testing
in API’s Aftermarket Audit Program.
licensees on the API website.
MWS: WHAT ARE BEST PRACTICES
FOR MANAGING DEF IN SHOPS?
HARMENING:
reach the marketplace. Temperature
at the point of storage or sale can
containers. Make sure the stock is
rotated to use the oldest product first.
considerations include:
•
tanks. Don’t switch products in the
bulk tank without rinsing the tank
with distilled or de-ionized water
•
or bulk tank so contaminants
particularly important in a shop or
construction site that has dust or
dirt in the air.
•
•
should be cleaned with distilled or
de-ionized water and followed by a
of the engine oils or fuels used in your
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Je Harmening currently manages the Engine Oil Licensing Cercaon System
program, DEF Cercaon Program, and the Motor Oil Management Program at the
American Petroleum Instute (API). He also oversees the Aermarket Audit Program
that purchases and tests thousands of DEF and engine oil samples globally for
conformance with required specicaons. Find out more, visit www.api.org.
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12
MEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEMEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE
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13
THE SUPER DUTY TRUCK
BUILT FOR HARD WORK
The Ford
F-550
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
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JUNE 202014
I
n the market for a medium-
duty work machine? Perhaps
elements that when combined
make a mean work truck. With the
different packages to meet all their
work truck needs. Capability and
offers comfort and safety elements
that are more commonly found in
light-duty trucks. But don’t let that
its Super Duty name.
SUPER DUTY
One of the most important
elements to a truck is its capability.
power takeoff is standard with
transmission. Depending on the
third generation Power Stroke has
injectors that can measure and spray
fuel up to eight times per stroke. This
optimizes combustion. To withstand
as well as new steel pistons.
Although an important aspect to
capability isn’t the only thing to
also play a role in the final decision-
making process.
COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
feature a dash-top tray and a
enough for work boot traffic. Grab
keep all occupants comfortable
and steady in the truck no matter
where the road takes them. And
while your crew cruises down the
city streets or takes the road less
options of listening to the AM/
in the summer and warm in the
standard air conditioning with
manual temperature control and an
option for rapid-heat supplemental
cab heater with a diesel engine.
controls on the steering wheel
and an instrument cluster with a
warning messages. There is also
MEDIUM-DUTY-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE
JUNE 2020
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
15
If you find yourself in need of
options to choose from. Optional
PRIORITIZE SAFETY
Some safety features are standard
with roll-fold side-curtain airbags
and front seat and passenger frontal
airbags. The cab also features a Belt-
Minder that chimes and flashes a
warning light when seat belts aren’t
worn. An additional standard safety
feature is auto on/off headlamps
Headlamps. This ensures headlamps
wipers are in use.
Optional safety features include
assist with automatic emergency
perfect for trucks that run in snow and
cold weather.
Super Duty trucks come standard with
systems use sensors to detect a loss
of control then reduce engine power
and the trailer in tow. Safety should
safety should be customized according
the job.
CUSTOMIZATION
your truck for it to become your
you can truly choose what you need.
Tow package or a High-capacity Trailer
Tow package. There are also payload
Gaseous Engine Prep package. There’s
no denying that the perfect fleet truck
make that customization a little easier.
YOUR NEXT TRUCK
for this super duty are almost endless.
It’s Super Duty power and capability
combined with your specific upgrades
and packages can create a truck
built specifically for your hard work.
And with its comfortable details and
feel it was built specifically for them.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Find out more about the Ford F-550,
visit www.ford.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
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JUNE 2020
16
UPFIX
Y
ou know the manufacturer’s
a saying that reassures truck
take it head-on. It’s much easier to
find the perfect truck for your job in
light-duty applications when the truck
itself is the only tool you need. But
isn’t enough for your medium-duty
so are many other tools and assets
when it comes to doing medium-duty
jobs right.
the market for upfits and accessories
that help complete the job instead of
just get you there. Depending on your
is ready and waiting to be made into
here to help get you there. Customize
to your heart’s content with the right
body and accessories that optimize
Upfitting a Ford F-550
JUST HOW CUSTOMIZED CAN YOU BE?
MINIMIZER
To protect your truck body from sand, mud, and rocks kicked up
from your tires, consider Minimizer fenders. Its MIN1900 series
fenders designed specifically for 19.5-inch dual wheels are a perfect
fit on the Ford F-550 chassis. The fenders are available in multiple
color options with or without integrated taillights and are backed
by Minimizer’s Lifetime Guarantee. Installing fenders saves money
by keeping equipment clean, reducing corrosion and damage
to your truck.
www.minimizer.com
UPFIT WITH CTECH'S STORAGE SOLUTIONS, FROM UNDER
THE SEAT STORAGE BOXES TO SERVICE BODY DRAWERS, FOR
EASY ACCESS TO ALL YOUR TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT.
JUNE 2020
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
17
BUYERS PRODUCTS
Get year-round performance from the F-550s in your fleet. With
Buyers Products’ SaltDogg® Medium Duty MDS Combination
Dump Spreader, you can haul and dump mulch, gravel, and other
materials in spring through fall. Then attach the spinner to deice
in the winter. The MDS is the first combo body in its class to offer a
fully electric drive—no central hydraulics required. A 304 stainless
steel body with roll-formed sides and a cross member-free design
provide a 3- to 4-cubic-yard capacity and optimized material flow.
A double-acting MailHot® hoist provides powerful and reliable
dump action. Toolboxes, pre-wets, and other accessories available
for all seasons.
www.buyersproducts.com
Take note!
build your perfect work truck. Tweet a
photo and mention @mwsmag.
DAKOTA BODIES
If you’re looking for a custom solution strictly for your application
and business, Dakota Bodies allows just that. The brand creates
bodies based on your exact needs, allowing customization on every
aspect. Take for instance this Aerial Service Body installed on the
Ford F-550. It’s built with an aluminum body that features a 10-year
corrosion warranty, increases payload, is partially constructed out of
recycled materials, and is available in a powder coat finish. Owners
have the option of including a chainsaw box, ladder rack, and a thru
storage compartment in the tailshelf.
www.dakotabodies.com
SEE
AD
PG 19
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
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JUNE 202018
UPFIX
BUILT JOB TOUGH
A work truck is only as good as how
So be sure to take your truck from
Minimizer’s fenders to keep your body
for all things storage. How customized
READING TRUCK GROUP
For those looking for a service body with a good reputation, consider
the Aluminum Classic II™ Service Body from Reading Truck Body.
Known for its quality components, innovative features and legendary
durability, the Classic II is a premiere aluminum service body in the
industry. Aluminum bodies offer a lightweight and versatile solution
that allows for increased payload capacity yet is tough enough for
rugged industrial and construction work. Aluminum is also a great
corrosion-resistant option for harsh weather environments. The
aluminum Classic II is also backed by Reading’s 10-year warranty.
If you’re looking for a body to fit a specific application, the Master
Mechanic™ 45-Series heavy-duty crane body offers a combination of
versatility, mobility, and productivity. This model has a standard 11-ft
crane body built for a crane rating up to 7,500 lbs (45,000 ft-lb) and
an 84-inch cab-to-axle chassis. Workers benefit from ample interior
and exterior storage that allows for easy curbside access to tools
and supplies and secures items safely with a three-point locking
system. Master Mechanic Series crane bodies feature 360-degree
pivotable external lighting for improved visibility and compression
style handles on compartments that are easy to grab with a gloved
hand. This particular body is also upfit with a Stellar crane and a
Reading MM40 Air Compressor.
www.readingbody.com
Service truck beds are no stranger to the F-250 to F-550 lineup
and feel very at home in its rugged chassis. CTech has provided
premium Tool Drawer Units (TDUs) to the work truck industry
for years. Many manufacturers have taken notice and use CTech
drawers as their preferred option for fitting the openings of their
service beds, as seen in the bed pictured. CTech drawers feature a
patented design MotionLatch handle that allows for easy access to
anything stored inside while securely closed during transport. Like
the lightweight aluminum cab of a Ford F-Series, CTech is an all-
aluminum construction.
CTECH
www.ctechmanufacturing.com
SEE
AD
PG 9
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19
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22
OPERATIONSOPERATIONS
It’s Possible to
Go Green and Save
Money—Here’s How
PROPANE AUTOGAS IS A PROVEN, AVAILABLE ALTERNATIVE FUEL
THAT CAN REDUCE EMISSIONS AND LOWER OPERATING COSTS
By Steve Whaley
light-duty feature
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23
W
that if companies want to lower
emissions or meet fleet sustainability
more to do it. It’s often one of the
reasons fleet owners are initially
reluctant to consider other energy
sources besides gasoline or diesel.
But it’s time to fact check that line
of thought.
lowest total cost of ownership of any
fuel: propane autogas.
Thanks to its low fuel and
their total operating costs. Here’s how.
COST OF FUEL
autogas itself is consistently less than
prices fluctuated to lower prices this
diesel on price per gallon by as much
autogas falls between the price of oil
autogas prices don’t fluctuate as
are able to more easily manage fuel
retailers work with fleet owners to
create a contract that allows fleets to
lock in a set price per gallon for the
year. This is another layer of protection
against fluctuating fuel prices. Because
to make the switch can work with a
local propane supplier who can help
them select and install an affordable
fuel contract to fit their needs.
MAINTENANCE COSTS
The second way many fleets realize
in maintenance costs. Compared to a
Propane autogas emissions
the need for costly additional fluids
and filters like diesel emissions fluid
the added maintenance costs and
and effort to maintain these emissions
systems that constantly become more
become increasingly more strict.
downtime to complete these repairs
autogas has fewer residual
contaminants to the oil that cause
naturally occurs in gasoline engines.
maintenance costs.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Although the total cost of ownership
substantially less without relying
such as propane autogas. Earlier this
Consolidated Appropriations Act
credit will be able to claim a credit
for any fuel purchases made in
claims for credits or refunds.
Additional opportunities are also
with their area Clean Cities Coalition
benefit here is to the neighborhoods
where these fleets operate. With
significant reductions in harmful
with propane autogas contribute to a
their community.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stephen Whaley is director of
on-road business development for
the Propane Educaon & Research
Council. He can be reached at
stephen.whaley@propane.com. Find
out more, visit www.propane.com/
eet-vehicles.
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24
OPERATIONS
I
t’s likely your fleet managers
use a telematics system on their
fleets. Telematics systems are
They seem to become more and
passes. We touch on these systems
Modern WorkTruck Solutions simply
to rely on for smooth operations.
Telematics systems for the chassis
fleet manager how their operations
Although these systems make fleet
operations more efficient in terms
common telematics systems lack data
n the chassis.
At the Work Truck Show this past
its telematics system specifically
the system garnered interest from
both large and small fleets. So how
“We talked to our customers to
see what information they were
Oppermann says. “We heard from
the fleet managers that they wanted
a full picture of their fleets and their
fleet managers are looking for the
same thing: more data. They want
to ensure assets are being optimized
MADE FOR MANAGERS
Oppermann says fleet managers
different ways. “Some people want
put that data into something they do
th
Industries created a dashboard for
fleets of all sizes so that managers can
for their operations. The dashboard
asset data from the dashboard to an
internal system for additional analysis
or to combine with other fleet data.
Stellar designed the system to be as
can see the information that is most
important for them.
Oppermann says the system
where the telematics system was also
on display. Although the feedback
interested fleet managers who made
STELLAR INDUSTRIES GIVES FLEETS A FULL PICTURE OF THEIR EQUIPMENT
A Telematics
System for Equipment
JUNE 2020
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
25
a few suggestions. Just as Stellar
listened to customer input while
feedback from the trade shows to
compressor usage information by
breaking down data into hours and
daily minutes prior to the trade
shows. But Oppermann says fleet
manager feedback showed a desire
to see information on how much a
compressor was running for loaded
updated the dashboard for managers
to see that data at a glance.
PILOT PROGRAM
Before Stellar Industries introduced
put it through pilot testing. “We
started off with a pretty large fleet
as one of our partners throughout
going on a customer journey with
them to figure out what they’re
rolled it out to another fleet for pilot
out to yet another fleet. “We kept
looking at it to make sure we were
doing the best we could to hit the
SYSTEM BENEFITS
also highlighted the importance of
maintenance. Stellar Telematics
to any employee in a company.
These maintenance reminders help
maintenance could go unperformed
and potentially cause downtime or
cutting into a fleet’s bottom line.
data collection allows fleet managers
to use the data to determine
connected to Stellar Telematics.
Oppermann says some fleet
managers capture
specifically to determine how their
aspects such as to
is used properly as
for the job.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
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JUNE 202026
OPERATIONS
that if an operator notifies a fleet
manager that a larger crane is needed
to determine if it is used near to
capacity a majority of the time. This
Additional benefits of Stellar’s
system are operator controls and
on and off through an app on their
cell phone. The app also shows the
status of electrical components.
This status is also accessible to
the truck and determine the issue
within a few minutes.
USING THE SYSTEM
Stellar Industries’ telematics system
features a long list of trackable data
are displayed on the dashboard or
reports. This wealth of data is
dashboard. Data from other aspects
such as the use of flood lights can be
found in reports.
Oppermann says perhaps the
best way to use Stellar Industries’
system is to look at your fleet’s
usage points and lifecycle. Are there
any outliers among your fleet? Are
harder than others to perform
the same task? If there are major
situation. It’s possible that there is a
operated incorrectly.
the system to other locations within
their fleet. And why wouldn’t
are able to focus more on the job at
Stellar’s system also allows its
get a better understanding of how
each asset is used on the job.
Stellar Industries’ goal was to
satisfy fleet managers’ need for a
fleet managers get.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Stellar Industries manufactures
hydraulic truck-mounted equipment
including hookli hoists, cable
hoists, container carriers, telescopic
cranes, arculang cranes, and work
truck accessories. Find out more
about the Stellar Telemacs system,
visit www.stellarindustries.com.
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MAINTENANCE
Where the Rubber
Meets the Load
HOW A SINGLE DAD’S SMALL BUSINESS RELIES ON TIMBREN
H
Indiana. He owns a fleet of ten trucks and four trailers
located in Indianapolis. He proudly runs a family
owned business; it’s just Tom and his son Tyler. He calls
DAD’S PARTNER
Tom’s customers are both residential and commercial. He
a platform for business promotion.
AS A SINGLE DAD, TOM TAKES HIS 3-YEAR-OLD
SON, TYLER, WITH HIM EVERY DAY.
“While I was still driving a semi full time and hauling
gravel in my spare time, my son Tyler was born. His
mother told me that if I kept working long hours,
he was going to grow up without me. Her words hit
home. I realized I was working too much and not
spending enough time with him.
“A few short months later, I discovered I needed
shoulder surgery. As I began to connect the dots, I
realized I had a big decision to make. Ready or not,
I decided to give my employer two week’s notice.
Why? Because I was going to make Gravel Guy my
full-time occupation and raise my son on my own. In
fact, ever since his first birthday, Tyler has ridden in
the truck with me every day as my partner in Gravel
Guy, excavation, and more.
“My son is the best thing that has ever happened
to me. Being able to wake up with him and take him
to work is the greatest feeling in the world.”
TOM HAS OPERATED GRAVEL GUY FOR
JUST OVER FOUR YEARS. WHEN ASKED HOW
HE GOT STARTED, HE SAID:
“It was really by accident, you know. I wanted to
buy a skid-steer loader to use around the farm and
started shopping for a used one. But after looking
around I realized that buying a new one was a
better option.
“When I filled in a credit app to buy a new
machine, I soon learned they wanted 50% down.
Turns out I needed to come up with $28,000. I had
some money saved, but not nearly that much. Where
was I going to find that kind of money?
“I had recently traded an old pickup for a Dodge
dump truck and decided to put it to work. So, I
placed an ad on Facebook to haul and spread gravel.
Well, the response was more than I expected. I
couldn’t answer the phone fast enough!
“I drove a semi seven days a week, 365 days a
year. Working full-time hours meant I would haul
gravel whenever I could fit it in.
“Long story short, I saved enough money to
buy the machine but had to rebuild my trailer so I
could tow it home. After hauling my new machine
around for a few weeks, the trailer broke in half!
More money…
“Almost one year later working full time and
hauling gravel part time, a neighbor kid asked if I
would hire him. I really needed someone to share the
work load, so I taught him the ropes, and before long
he became my first employee.
“Soon after he started working for me, we were
getting referrals. But nobody knew my name. People
would call and ask for the ‘gravel guy.’ After that,
the name kind of stuck.”
GROWING FAITH
RUBBER, MEET LOAD
employees and one 3-year-old partner. A typical 1-ton dump
was beating his trucks into the ground.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION
Look for the link to a Gravel Guy
informaonal video in the digital
edion. Find out more about
Timbren SES suspensions, visit
www.mbren.com.
NOT WANTING TO BECOME ANOTHER
STATISTIC, TOM LEARNED THAT GROWING A
BUSINESS REQUIRES A MIXTURE OF
COURAGE, GRIT, AND FAITH.
“There was a time—not that long ago—when I began
to worry I would have to close the doors of my
business. Over the winter I had invested $150,000
trying to grow the business by building storage
facilities for another delivery product.
“I found myself down to my last $600 in my
business account, and we weren’t getting any orders.
This was the first time we’d experienced something
like this. I feared the worst but hoped for the best.
During those dark days, I recall—it was Wednesday at
noon—that miraculously the phone started ringing,
and it hasn’t stopped since. Call it luck or call it fate, I
think the Lord was looking out for us.”
TOM HAS ALWAYS OVERWORKED HIS
TRUCKS AND TRAILERS. SO WHEN HE FOUND
OUT THERE WAS A SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE WAY
TO PROTECT HIS TRUCK’S SUSPENSION,
A HELPER SPRING MADE OF RUBBER,
HE DECIDED TO TRY IT OUT.
“I was at Indianapolis Spring buying a gooseneck kit
for my truck. While I was there I noticed a display for
Timbren SES suspension helpers. I read the brochure
and decided to give them a try. After installing a
set of rubber springs on my 2000 Ford F-350, I was
amazed at how well they performed. That was over
10 years ago.
“I do have some large trailers and overload every
one of them every day. None of them have any
suspension work or added parts. In fact, Timbren
SES is the only helper spring I have ever used on any
of my truck suspensions. As we continue to grow,
Timbren will be there with us the whole way.”
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TECHNOLOGY
R
time they clock in until they clock
Technology solutions that are purpose
REAL-TIME INTELLIGENCE
How does an organization stop a
problem before it escalates? The
answer is with real-time intelligence to
empower the team. Monitoring systems
stakeholders can make efficient use of
their resources to address potential
and ensure structural integrity.
Some fleet management technology
allow software and sensors to enable
users to create customized monitoring
Tools to Improve
Ready Mix Productivity
USE TECHNOLOGY TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY,
PROFIT, AND SAFETY
By Steve Young
heavy-duty feature
JUNE 2020
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
31
a range of on-demand information
businesses can manage their fleet
accurate business information.
VIDEO INTELLIGENCE
and organization.
because it can record a continuous
does VI help to mitigate and support
identifies coaching opportunities.
communication opportunities are
TRUCK NAVIGATION
systems specific to commercial
organizational safety and efficiency.
should be wary of using popular
needed to identify streets designed
weight restrictions as well as bridge
clearance obstacles.
GEOGATES
technology continually adapt and
now integrated into some telematics
The geogate solution enhances
routes. The manager can set the gate
both. Dispatch can add gates easily by
simply drawing a line perpendicular
across the road on a map.
Dispatch can use geogates to warn of
entering areas that are off-limits.
OPTIMIZE TECH
In a world where it has become
increasingly more difficult to get
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Steve Young is the business area
manager for Trimble Construcon
Logiscs, which provides technology
soluons designed specically
for the construcon materials
industry. He has more than 15 years
of experience in transportaon,
business management, soware
engineering, user experience,
and technology management.
He can be contacted at
steve_young@trimble.com.
Multiple sensors installed on a fleet
vehicle enable users to create customized
monitoring solutions.
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32
TECHNOLOGY
A
and in challenging circumstances.
measures in place to support
.
this crisis. This will not only protect
your company’s economic prosperity
but the public at large.
safety should also now include your
societal benefits.
PROTECTING HEALTH
you must know how COVID-19 is spread.
person-to-person and through contact
with contaminated surfaces. There are
measures that can be put in place to
• Wash and sanitize hands
frequently.
• Practice social distancing.
How Can You
Ensure the
Safety of
Your Drivers
During this Time?
IN A COVID-19 WORLD,
DRIVER SAFETY IS MORE
IMPORTANT THAN EVER
JUNE 2020
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33
should be done using online tools.
• Use protective equipment. If you
them on proper usage.
• Disinfect surfaces daily. This
includes the inside and outside
wheel and door handles.
ON THE ROAD
look at how this monitoring can help
increase as well as the unusual
circumstances will lead to stress and
should keep an eye on.
person’s body in similar ways as
concentration and slower reaction
many reasons including:
• Time of day.
likely to fall asleep at the wheel
takes a natural dip during these
times and causes drowsiness and
• Stress. Work-related stress has
become more pronounced during
the pandemic as people are
much more.
• Driving long hours.
performance deteriorates after
leading to slower reaction times
and decreased concentration. The
YOUR PART
So what can you do as a fleet owner/
manager to make the job safer?
telematics is one of the best tools
show if fatigue played a role.
to become fatigued (as discussed
in-cab telematics tools to wake them
up or ask them to pull o
yourself with the symptoms and
implement measures to counteract
adjust their job schedule to allow
more breathing room. Telematics
technology offers job scheduling
capabilities for this purpose.
repairs is also important for safety.
On-board telematics keeps track of
helps fleets schedule maintenance
the spread of COVID-19.
On-board technology can also
as high oil pressure. Should any of
immediate action can be taken to
ine damage.
that cannot be afforded when essential
FIRST PRIORITY
become complacent once COVID-19
subsides and operations return
the circumstances.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Find out more, visit
www.mixtelemacs.com.
866.251.1777 • 205.824.9796
randym@mwsmag.com
REACH KEY INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
get your
media planner
mwSmAg.COm
LOAD ING AN D
UNLO ADING
RAMPS PROVIDE
A SECU RE PATH
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REACH KEY INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
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34
TECHNOLOGY
Managing a
Fleet Remotely
TIPS ON YOUR WORKSPACE, COMMUNICATION,
AND TASK MANAGEMENT
JUNE 2020
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
35
A
s the COVID-19 pandemic
are facing the dilemma of how
to manage operations remotely. The
pandemic affects all businesses on
Changing your fleet management
system to function remotely sounds
of software tools that can help you
a cloud-based fleet management
solution for managing assets remotely
and communicating across your team.
The most important aspect
of remote fleet management is
hinges on how well you and your team
communicate. Staying informed of
fleet operations in real time is prudent
fleet management software to manage
tasks on an organized platform.
Most fleet managers are used to
they’re spread out along their
any contact for an undetermined
period of time brings about new
on paper or installed solutions to
manage your fleet.
How you set up your remote
communication strategy as well
as your workspace during this
time will be critical for your fleet’s
success. Implementing software
solutions to help you stay organized
streamlines operations and ensures
unnecessary downtime.
YOUR WORKSPACE
significantly during the pandemic.
Setting up a dedicated workspace
of normalcy and help you adapt to
remote work life. To ensure you stay
you may need to set boundaries to
help you maintain focus. Consider
meetings or on phone calls.
to track and manage assets in real
communication channels is a must. A
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
JUNE 202036
TECHNOLOGY
phone signal will keep you connected
with your team at all times.
As you transition to a remote
to manage your fleet. Don’t be
to do your job will help you adapt to
remote work life more easily.
COMMUNICATE
your team ensures you’re on the
your team. Putting a premium on
A mobile phone is a fleet manager’s
important to make sure your team
employees and forwarding your
office phone to your cell are two
easy solutions to stay in touch. To
consider streamlining all fleet
management tasks through a mobile
cross operations.
made it easy for workers both remote
and on-site to still hold meetings.
connect with team members face-to-
face and share computer screens to
Virtually all businesses use email
many useful integrations to promote
communication a
Tracking assets remotely and
sound impossible if you’re still using
paper processes or outdated systems
software tools can aid communication
management software is a mobile-first
Many fleet managers use a
mobile fleet management app
to create and manage
tasks remotely.
JUNE 2020
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
37
fleet management software to
streamline communication and gain
can easily access information and
com
TASK MANAGEMENT
important than maintaining the
Before you implement remote fleet
sanitization methods and performance
standards to mitigate issues.
Set daily goals and assignments
appropriate team members reach out
to you each day for status updates. To
many fleet managers use a mobile
fleet management app to create
and manage tasks remotely. With a
upload maintenance and inspection
data from anywhere to keep you
informed of critical issues.
In addition to managing day-
to-day tasks like work orders and
asset use to keep your fleet running
peace of mind while you’re away
and help you determine the best
across your fleet.
reduction or an increase in demand
keep an eye on your fleet’s bottom
line and prepare for any potential
to forecast future operating costs and
weeks and months ahead.
your fleet weather the pandemic.
Centralizing all fleet data in fleet
tracking simple. With configurable
can automatically calculate your
regarding your fleet’s budget.
No matter how you manage your
working strategy begins and ends with
communication. Staying connected to
real time will help your team stay safe
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Find out more about how to
remotely manage your eet, visit
www.eeo.com.
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
38
SAFETY
Open Communication
and Consistent Coaching
OPERATING IN THE NEW NORMAL: PART 1
W
prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
no one really knows what the normal
will look like once the pandemic slows
and state to state as different parts of
the country slowly reopen and get back
frontline workers as they continue to
The reality is that the
way business is
again. This series will include tips to
help you and your fleet get back to
like for different organizations.
immediate impact to your fleet.
UNCLOG LINES
happen tomorrow. It’s difficult to stay
the road in front of you.
to unclog the lines of communication.
• Pay close attention to the feelings
understand the message behind the
words and actions to get a better
understanding of their mindset.
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
39
• Don’t put your own feelings in
aside your own needs and ideas.
•
way. With so many items changing
daily and uncertainty at an all-
and hear them.
•
speakers finish what they are
saying before you respond.
• Ask for more information
a clear understanding.
transparent communications. Open
your door or pick up your phone.
CONSTRUCTIVE COACHING
“A good coach can change a game. A
great coach can change a life.”
– John Wooden
are the players and safety managers are
embrace coaching sessions and feedback
as an essential way to continuously
task-saturated operations leaders.
Time spent coaching is better than
when there is a collision.
the opportunity to sit down for an
in-person coaching session. By picking
not with them physically.
Open communication and consistent
and let them know you care.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
To gain more insights on
communicaon and coaching,
download the eBook, “Coach Your
Drivers to Safety and Success,” from
SmartDrive. It can help make
coaching part of your safety culture,
measure your coaching eecveness,
provide advanced analycs for
coaching, and more. Find out more,
visit www.smartdrive.net.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
JUNE 202040
WORK TRUCK PRODUCTS
A.R.E.
CX CLASSIC FOR JEEP GLADIATOR
www.4are.com
MILLER
REMOTE START/STOP ON BOBCAT 260 AND 225
www.millerwelds.com/remotesolutions
HOT SHOT’S SECRET
SHIFT RESTORE
transmissions. This high-performance ester formula is a lubricity and cleaning agent that
tenaciously attaches itself to all metal parts that it meets inside the transmission. The
strong polarity pulls deposits off the metal surfaces and puts them back into solution.
www.hotshotsecret.com
CTECH
FORD SUPER DUTY REAR SEAT STORAGE
unit offers the added storage space needed. CTech drawers feature a patented
while keeping securely closed during transport. With the added lock option you
www.ctechmanufacturing.com
SEE
AD
PG 9
JUNE 2020
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
41
VMAC
DTM70-H PTO DRIVEN MULTI-POWER SYSTEMS
www.vmacair.com/product/dtm/dtm70-h/
COOPER TIRE
ROADMASTER RM257 DRIVE TIRE
an open-shoulder tire with three tread blocks in the center. The tire’s 3D siping
allows for better grip in wet weather conditions.
www.coopertire.com
TRANSFER FLOW
50-state Replacement Fuel Tank for F-150s
amount of hydrocarbons released into the atmosphere. The new tank is perfect for
without sacrificing truck bed space.
www.transferflow.com
STERTIL-KONI
Portable Air Over Hydraulic Jack
the jack at home on the shop floor or on the road. It features a chromium-plated
www.stertil-koni.com
WWW.MWSMAG.COM
42
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AMERICA MOVES BECAUSE OF WORK TRUCKS
The layman might not know what we mean when we say “work truck.” But
tell them it’s just about any commercial van, pickup, big rig, or heavy hauler
that carries products, equipment, and technicians, and they’ll quickly realize
that work trucks are everywhere. According to Kathryn Shifferle of Work Truck
Solutions, work trucks are essentially the fabric that keeps the country going.
Work Truck Solutions created a graphic showing just how much we rely on
trucks in our daily lives. Check it out. Even if you’ve been in the industry for
decades, you might learn something new.
Talk soon!
Jade
Sources: 1. U.S. Bureau of Transportation; 2. U.S. Special Delivery; 3. Statista ; 4. Journal of Medical Services; 5. Smart Asset; 6. U.S. Bureau of Labor; 7. Sunfab cranes; 8. U.S. EPA; 9. National Fire Protection Association ; 10, Research and Markets report ; 11. Intergovernmental organization for the development of refridgeration ; 12. The Construction Association; 13. IBIS World; 14. CNET; 15. Good Car Bad Car; 16. Autobody News.
Graphic courtesy of Work Truck Solutions.
www.worktrucksolutions.com
.
