George R. Ruhl & Son Enhances Fleet Management With Technology

George R. Ruhl & Son Inc. (GRRS), a full-line bakery supplier, has implemented a mobile resource management solution from Intergis LLC, Cranford, NJ.

GRRS provides dry and frozen goods to stores in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Washington and Central Pennsylvania. The company distributes 3,000 brand name products from a single warehouse containing dry storage and freezer space and uses 10 refrigerated trucks to deliver goods.

The company used an automated routing system to plan driver schedules but had no way to track whether drivers were making unauthorized stops. GRRS executives could see that estimated mileage was far beyond the route mileage. Since managers could only rely on cell phones to contact drivers, they had no way to verify their location or inform customers of delivery arrival times.

GRRS realized it needed a mobile resource management (MRM) solution to ensure schedules were being followed, so it could better manage its delivery fleet and ensure it was meeting appointment times. After testing several MRM solutions, the company began a pilot program on five vehicles using Intergis' Vericom MRM for its detailed reporting capabilities and quick updating.

The Vericom MRM solution features GPS vehicle tracking devices that report real-time information including location, speed and driver status. The highly customizable reports enable dispatchers to see as much or as little data as required.

After implementing Intergis' Vericom MRM solution, GRRS witnessed immediate results and eventually added devices to five more vehicles as the company grew. Since dispatchers are constantly monitoring driver activity, they are staying on schedule, arriving on time and not using the vehicles for personal use.

The company witnessed noticeable improvements in the mileage readings after shifts and customers have voiced their appreciation for the more efficient delivery methods. The drivers "know they're being watched, and that has had only positive effects," says Bill Ruhl, vice president. "We have never received any negative comments from the drivers. More than anything, the technology also enables driver's safety if they're lost or need fast assistance. Managers no longer have to depend on cell phones to pinpoint employees, which had spotty service in some areas and took drivers' concentration away from the road.

"We're very satisfied with the system and we'll keep adding units as our company grows," adds Ruhl. "We have a firm handle on operations and are certain our customers are receiving the best service."

SOURCE: Intergis LLC