The fast track

In-cab scanning becoming more reliable, cost-effective

By Aaron Huff

Most fleet owners only could imagine invoicing a customer on the same day they delivered. Fleets that use scanning stations at company facilities and truckstops are closer to making that dream a reality. A growing number of fleets are using in-cab scanning technology to receive bills of lading and other proof-of-delivery documents within minutes of delivery.

The technology also can increase drive time and reduce mileage that otherwise would be lost by sending drivers to truckstops. Some fleets also are using it to increase driver satisfaction; by speeding up the billing process, some fleets are able to pay drivers faster – as much as three times a week.

FFE Transportation – a provider of temperature-controlled less-than-truckload, truckload and dry van services – currently pays drivers every Friday for the loads it has invoiced. Having recently implemented in-cab scanning, management is considering paying drivers three times per week. The technology has shortened FFE Transportation’s billing cycle between three and nine days, which will allow the company to pay drivers much faster, says Nick Cook, chief technology officer.

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