Truckload Delays In The Winter Season

Weather is an unpredictable factor that affects transportation quickly and for extended periods of time. Winter brings a combination of snow and ice that can have significant impacts on logistics and can disrupt the supply chain by making it almost impossible for commerce motor vehicles (CMVs) to deliver goods to their final destinations. According to a 2011 Bureau of Transportation Statistics study, weather-related issues account for the highest percentage of fatal CMV crashes. Between 2005 and 2006, the states with the highest total number of fatal CMV crashes associated with adverse weather were Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

Winter weather can create serious issues that affect multiple facets of truckload transportation. For example, winter weather conditions affect driver safety by decreasing visibility and traction and increasing overall driver-control problems. Additionally, snow or ice-covered roads and subsequent traffic crashes can cause road closures and lead to delivery delays. Finally, equipment failure, such as malfunctioning cooling systems, defrosting and heating equipment, wipers and washers, and radiator shutters, can be even more detrimental to the truck operator and delivery schedules in the winter, as breakdowns can take more time to repair.

Drivers often do not know the severity of the highway condition until they are approaching the affected area. In these situations, split decisions need to be made to ensure the safety of the driver and the cargo. The main decision comes from the local authorities:  the public sector owns and operates most of the nation’s roads, and they play a substantial role in deciding what to do in case of severe winter weather. They can restrict the vehicle speeds or allowable cargo, close roads, and open alternative routes – all of which usually result in delays. On the other hand, trucking companies can make the call to stop driving if the conditions are unsafe or even shut down operations in order to protect the drivers’ safety.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Plan ahead. Maintaining constant communication and remaining flexible with all parties in the supply chain are the best methods to overcome truckload delays in the winter months. It is also important to have a current plan of action, which can be created by taking the following points into consideration:

• Examine past trends in weather related delays in your area, particularly in those interstate corridors where your product travels the most. Plan alternative routes or expedite shipments if needed.
• Review possible modifications or waivers to existing CMV rules pertaining to weather. Certain rules currently limit the number of service hours permitted for CMV drivers; exceptions are based on extenuating weather conditions.  Make sure to increase the transit time needed to deliver your shipments.
• Evaluate the terms and conditions of your current truckload provider and create a plan of action in case of winter delays. Make sure to request up-to-date notifications.
• Finally, contact Allyn International for all your logistics needs. We are here to help!