Minimize ‘BLT’ Problems with Smart Trailers

In the world of trucking, a BLT isn’t quite as appetizing as it may sound. That’s because the acronym doesn’t mean what it does to the rest of the world. BLT means brakes, lights, and tires, and these three things are said to be the cause of over 80% of downtime for commercial trailers. That isn’t even to mention the number of violations that are racked up due to problems with them. Keep reading to know the Minimize ‘BLT’ Problems with Smart Trailers.

Receiving a call in the middle of the night about a blown tire, a light that needs replacement, or a faulty break can seem redundant and largely avoidable. However, these issues have been around since the advent of shipping, and until recently, there wasn’t much that truck drivers or fleet managers could do about them. Fortunately, the technological advances made in smart trailers may just be the answer to the nagging BLT nuisances that plague the industry.

Pre-checks and Real-time Information

With smart trailers, fleet managers can access a database of information that provides them with up-to-the-minute updates on the status of all of their entire fleet. These trailers use advanced sensors and communication technologies to identify flight tires and faulty lights. If there are any issues, the managers can call for maintenance so that the trailer is ready to roll by the time the next driver comes along to hook up.

Optimized Routing

The technology doesn’t end with identification of minor issues. It can actually be used to prevent these situations from happening in the first place. A fleet manager can select a trailer for transport on a specific route, and advanced software can perform an analysis of the route, including the terrain and predicted weather patterns. This can help to determine if the tires are new enough and inflated to the right pressure to allow the trailer to perform the job.

Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance has been a major benefit to warehouses and fleets throughout the world, as it allows them to make proactive decisions about their equipment. Smart trailers can provide information about aging parts and give a maintenance schedule to minimize the number of instances that happen on the road.

Third-Party Communication

Although technology will help prevent a good number of breakdowns, there is no doubt that mechanical assistance will still be needed on a daily basis in the trucking industry. A smart trailer can communicate with commercial truck roadside assistance crews to relay information about the location and mechanical issues. This feature alone can help save drivers a lot of time when calling for help.

The Future Holds Even More

All of these advances are incredibly impressive – but they are just the beginning of major revolution in the trucking industry. Predictive maintenance will only continue to become more effective, and communications will likely follow the same path. This means that the supply chain throughout the world will become more efficient, allowing manufacturers to increase profits and improve their operations for the future.