Ploeger Groep makes efficiency gains with 200 CarCube onboard computers. Full integration with the transport management system
17 December 2009 by LS
De Ploeger Groep, a leading logistics service provider with branches in Harderwijk, Tilburg and Poppel (Belgium) is equipping its in-house fleet of 200 trucks with CarCube onboard computers. These are replacing the existing solution, which has reached the end of its lifecycle.
Punch Telematix has integrated Ploeger's CarCube onboard computers fully with the TMW transport management system. This is allowing the logistics service provider to make substantial efficiency gains in its transport activities.
Wide-ranging functionality and state-of-the-art technology
After a thorough selection process, Ploeger made a carefully considered decision in favour of the CarCube onboard computers. "We compared various systems in terms of functionality, stability, flexibility and price," says Adwin Ploeger, the director of the Ploeger Groep. "The CarCube came out best."
The deciding factors for Ploeger were the modern technical basis of the CarCube, the stability of the system and the project-oriented approach and strong market position of Punch Telematix. Ploeger expresses his admiration for the comprehensive tasks module, the CANbus connection, the journey time aid and the driving style assistant. "Thanks to the extensive functionality of the CarCube, we can continue to improve our efficiency both in the short term and the longer term," declares Ploeger.
Problem-free integration with the TMS
One of Ploeger's requirements was that the integration of the CarCube onboard computers with the TMS and the FleetWatch timesheet/expenses software from LogicWay had to be realised within two months. "The project-oriented approach of Punch Telematix and the open character of the CarCube solution meant that this all went to plan," explains Ploeger. The 200 onboard computers are currently being built into the logistics service provider's in-house fleet of trucks. Moreover, Ploeger is also equipping a number of its permanent subcontractors with a CarCube Express, the charter solution from Punch Telematix.
Efficiency at a stroke
The far-reaching integration of the CarCube onboard computers with the TMS yields benefits for Ploeger on a number of fronts. For instance, TMW can continuously update the planning based on the expected arrival times at the CarCubes calculate and pass on to the TMS.
In addition, the work planners and customer service department have real-time information available about deviations from the planning or special information about deliveries. This enables the logistics service provider to take immediate action in these situations, thereby avoiding additional costs. Furthermore, the TMS can check the agreed KPIs using details that are reported by the CarCubes and generate performance reports for Ploeger's customers.
The CarCube onboard computer supports Ploeger's drivers by recording the numbers and types of return pallets simply. The TMS processes the data to create a consistent pallet administration. The driving style assistant on the CarCube is also important for Ploeger. "It's a solution that's easy to use, which helps motivate the drivers to work with it," says Ploeger. "So the system also genuinely makes savings."
"For us, the fact that Ploeger chose the CarCube proves that its advanced connectivity solutions set it apart," says Chris Boogaard, Country Manager for the Netherlands at Punch Telematix. "The excellent cooperation between the Ploeger Groep, Jan Vieveen's PER consultancy and Punch Telematix was one of the many reasons why integration with TMW was realised within two months. We can also deliver interfaces that Ploeger wants to use to improve its processes further in future, such as a mobile scanner. This means that Punch Telematix is the onboard computer specialist for logistics service providers."
About the Ploeger Groep
The Ploeger Groep has offices in Harderwijk, Tilburg and Poppel (Belgium). It is one of the leading third-party logistics service providers (see also www.ploeger.nl). The group offers its customers logistics services, transportation contracts, bulk packaged transport in the Benelux countries and internationally, and dispatching. In addition, Ploeger specialises in the logistics of foodstuffs and confectionery, wine and drinks and (non-food) consumer products.
The Ploeger Groep is a dynamic unit comprising over 400 staff, more than 200 transport units, 45,000m2 of warehouse capacity and more than 70 years of experience in logistics.