Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence and Trucking Fleet Management…

It’s no longer “news” that artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way humans do just about everything. Even though driving a truck and hauling a semi trailer is very much a hands-on skill, the technology is affecting our industry, too.

AI won’t replace drivers on a large scale in the short term. However, it’s already providing valuable assistance to companies that depend on the smooth and consistent movement of raw materials, components and goods.

What Has Enabled the AI Revolution in Trucking?

Going back just a few decades, trucks didn’t have much you could call “hi-tech.” The only computers involved in the transportation industry were the ones used in offices by companies to do things like create spreadsheets and manage employee payroll.

A significant leap occurred in the form of so-called cloud computing. Rather than information residing primarily or exclusively on the hard drives of a company’s computers, it was suddenly “out there” in the cloud. That meant you could access it (and add to it) from anywhere with an internet connection. And very quickly, “anywhere” came to include the cab of a truck.

Meanwhile, computer experts were learning how to design systems that “think” like humans and, consequently, can handle complex tasks. That brings us to today, with AI able to coordinate the receiving, storing and manipulating of data that resides in the cloud to improve transportation-related activities.

How AI Benefits Transportation Operations

Whether your company...