Empty miles aren’t just inefficient—they’re expensive. Roughly 35% of U.S. truck routes are driven without a load, according to a report by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI). That means every third trip wastes fuel, driver time, and revenue potential. For large fleets, that translates into millions of dollars lost each year.

The solution? Smarter routing powered by artificial intelligence. AI-driven platforms can help eliminate unnecessary mileage, reduce fuel consumption, and increase revenue per mile. Instead of manually juggling load assignments and traffic conditions, dispatchers are now empowered with data-backed tools that learn and adapt in real time.

How It Works

Rather than replacing dispatchers, AI enhances their capabilities. Repetitive manual tasks like route planning, traffic monitoring, and load matching can now be offloaded to intelligent systems. Dispatchers become strategic operators, able to monitor, adjust, and improve routes based on real-time data and analytics.

Several leading telematics providers offer integrated AI and route planning solutions:

• Verizon Connect: Offers intelligent routing to reduce fuel usage and improve driver efficiency.
• Geotab: Delivers robust analytics and flexible route optimization options integrated with MyGeotab.
• Samsara: Provides real-time vehicle monitoring and intelligent dispatch features.
• Trimble: Combines historical data and predictive analytics to streamline logistics.
• Teletrac Navman: Offers dynamic routing and driver performance tools.
• Omnitracs: Known for adaptive planning and optimization across complex delivery networks.
• Fleet Complete: Enhances operational efficiency through route scheduling tools.
• Zonar Systems: Provides route planning and student transport optimization.
• Motive (formerly KeepTruckin): Uses AI and real-time tracking for intelligent dispatching.
• Azuga: Offers flexible route planning and reporting for better decision-making.
• Fleetio: Combines maintenance and routing to improve total fleet efficiency.

Stats That Back It Up

• According to McKinsey & Company, fleets using AI-powered routing can reduce operating costs by up to 15%.
• Geotab reports real-time optimization can reduce average idle time by 12% and improve asset utilization by 8-10%.
• The FMCSA has found better scheduling reduces driver fatigue, increasing safety and compliance.
• Samsara data shows improved ETAs and reduced customer wait times by up to 20% through optimized routing.

Reimagining the Dispatcher Role AI doesn’t remove the human element—it makes it more effective. With AI, dispatchers can:

• Improve driver satisfaction by cutting down on deadhead miles.
• Match loads more accurately to hours-of-service windows.
• Offer customers more accurate ETAs and live updates.

Getting Started Fleet managers looking to cut costs and boost efficiency should evaluate route optimization platforms that offer:

• Real-time visibility and traffic-aware rerouting.
• Seamless integration with your TMS, ELD, and telematics systems.
• Historical data analysis and predictive route modeling.
• Mobile apps for driver navigation, alerts, and feedback.

Start with a pilot project to track metrics like fuel savings, time efficiency, and driver feedback. Use those learnings to scale smartly.

Learn More:

• Business Insider – AI in Trucking
• ATRI – Operational Costs of Trucking Report
• Geotab – Route Optimization Guide
• McKinsey – AI in Logistics

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