Integrated routing and fleet management cuts fuel bill by one third

Kitchen components provider TKC has cut its fuel bill by a third (33%) using TomTom Telematics' Webfleet fleet management system and delivery management and routing optimisation software from Maxoptra.

The integrated cloud-based solution, created by technology specialists and TomTom Gold Partner Communicate Better, has also increased productivity.

“Being able to allocate drivers to the nearest job, react to order changes and customer requests as they happen and avoid traffic when possible has also pushed up our productivity - our drivers are handling around 27% more jobs each day,” said Andy Manktelow, transport manager at TKC. 

The system automatically generates ETAs for each delivery, emailing and texting customers to let them know when their components will be arriving.  Updated as the day’s schedule unfolds, this helps to reduce the number of failed deliveries and has significantly improved customer service levels.

The TomTom PRO 8275 driver terminals are also being used by TKC drivers to capture photos and ‘sign on glass’ customer signatures to provide electronic proof of delivery via the Maxoptra Driver App.

The company uses the OptiDrive 360 functionality within Webfleet to give drivers and managers feedback and advice on key performance indicators such as harsh braking, speeding and idling, helping them to improve both driving safety and fuel efficiency. 

TKC can now automatically download driving time data remotely using Webfleet Tachograph Manager, saving on paperwork, time and effort.

Management can also see figures for remaining driving time – and be notified when drivers are due to take breaks, when shifts are due to end or, significantly, when compliance policy has not been followed.

"Our award-winning Webfleet connect open API functionality has allowed Communicate Better to integrate the Maxoptra solution on to the TomTom driver terminals, offering TKC the convenience of a multifunction fleet solution on the same interface for the transport and customer service departments," said Beverley Wise, director UK & Ireland for TomTom Telematics.

The customer interface will soon be augmented with the latest track and trace functionality where customers will be able to follow the progress of their delivery on a mobile map.

Drivers will also soon be able to use their driver terminals to perform digital safety checks, walking round their vehicle and checking tick boxes on screen to confirm the safety of key functions such as tyres, the exhaust, brake lights, fluids or a tail lift before they set off each morning.