Port Metro Vancouver using GPS to improve truck efficiency
VANCOUVER, B.C. — Port Metro Vancouver has announced a new pilot project that will use GPS to better facilitate the movement of trucks in and out of the port.
The Container Truck Efficiency Pilot Program is a six-month test the port hopes will improve efficiency for truckers and the port itself.
“Port operations must keep pace with improved technologies that will save time, track movements and improve communication,” said Peter Xotta, vice-president, planning and operations, Port Metro Vancouver. “This is an exciting new program. Thanks to the volunteers from the local container drayage community, we will be able to determine how this technology will have a meaningful, positive impact on daily business operations on the terminal and for the trucking community.”
The port is inviting 300 volunteers to take part in the pilot. They must hold an approved licence or permit in Port Metro Vancouver’s Truck Licensing System (TLS) to take part. Volunteers will receive training, installation and use of the GPS system at no cost, the port announced.
The port is hoping the program: helps track and communicate important routing, operational and congestion info to vehicle operators in real-time; delivers traffic information that allows truckers to avoid congestion; and validates turn time and wait time at the terminal.
The B.C. Trucking Association (BCTA) welcomed the initiative.
“With an anticipated increase in container volumes and a looming driver shortage, we need to use every tool available to ensure port intermodal operations are as efficient as they can be,” said Louise Yako, president and CEO, BCTA. “We’re encouraged to see Port Metro Vancouver working in consultation with the container drayage sector, which is a vital link in the Asia Pacific Gateway.”
To participate in the program, click here.
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maybe the port should set an actual start time at the terminals, instead of starting whenever they feel like.
The advertised start times are usually 30 to 45 mins prior to when the workers actually start working, and then there are times when you don’t leave a terminal for 2 to 3 hours. Line up to get in, line up to get serviced, line up to get out, then line up behind those train switches for up to 45 mins, how am i supposed to make any money. Train switches that happen 3 times a day cost me up to 1hr 30mins a day. Then you have the new truck routes that only apply to container trucks, which i believe is discriminatory, just like the air care and filters for only container trucks, Along with having to replace our trucks every few years. Oh ya, they really want efficiencies.
When i used to haul to the states the line ups were twice as long, but i never waited more than a half hour in a lineup. Then when you got in to the terminals, you were in and out in a half hour. I would venture to guess that the port of vancouver is one of the least efficient ports in all rhe world including the third world countries. Thanks for providing a forum for me to vent.