Getting freight delivered on time is an important factor for the transport industry and operators are increasingly turning to smartphones, social media and apps to get the latest information on traffic and road conditions.
National Road Carriers has developed a Trucking App using the InfoConnect web site, a service which allows app developers to connect with the Transport Agency’s traffic monitoring systems.
“The Trucking App has been popular with our members. Through it they can get all the traffic updates they need in addition to other useful tools such as regulatory and compliance information,” says NRC Chief Executive David Aitken.
“It’s an important tool for firms who are carrying time-sensitive loads,” David says. “For example we have trucks bound for Auckland Airport from Northland bringing fish for export so it’s vital that they know of anything that could affect delivery time.”
With the app drivers can get access to all the Transport Agency’s webcams and traffic data which is also available through the On The Move website.
Traffic information is also available from the NRC’s facebook page and website, with the power of social media meaning traffic information is quickly passed on to drivers, David says, adding further updates are planned to the Trucking App to add more functions.
A safety reminder that any phone-based app should only be used before setting out on journeys or when the driver is on a break.