We've been doing something extremely similar, yet far more advanced and detailed it seems for LTL and TL. the "computer" assigns, dispatches orders, routing, ensuring that all conditions required are met. Etas are updated automatically, if a driver is delayed, the system automatically re-balances load planning ensure that we aren't making an order late by leaving it dispatched to a certain driver that will not meet one of the order constraints. If a driver is ahead of schedule the system will find additional work to slot in to fill the drivers time between loads. Keep in mind we are a point to point carrier, freight does not originate or terminate at our term./whse.
Factors in a dozens of changing and static data points such as, weather, currently and historical road speed, routing, truck sizing, freight sizing, liftgates, inside delivery, hand bomb, dollies, helpers, total freight already onboard the truck, shipper ready times, shipper closing times, consignee closing times, delivery by times amond MANY other variables. This automated system runs essentially all the time throughout the day.
We basically don't even have a human pressing mouse button a dispatch order to said driver button anymore. Humans are just watching screens and metrics making sure the computer is doing it right.
We are quite proud of the above, and our drivers are HUGE fans of the solution. Daily driver km's reduced, more $$$ for driver, less fuel, more efficient routing and timing, and drivers can be confident that any order dispatched to them is well within their handling capabilities. It also ensures that addresses are valid, thus reducing the wasting of drivers time.
All of the above results in a customer that is satisfied with every transaction.
**hooting own horn done**
