Revolutionizing Logistics with Real-Time FreightTech Freight Solutions (Freight Technology)
In today’s fast-paced logistics industry, efficiency and real-time information are crucial for success. Over the past five years, Pilot Freight Services addressed these needs with the introduction of Pilot Truck Brokerage, a cutting-edge platform developed to revolutionize the way full truckload (FTL) rates and pricing were managed. This technology suite, developed in collaboration with NFY Interactive, Inc., represented a significant leap forward in logistics technology, providing users with real-time data and eliminating traditional inefficiencies.
A Game-Changing Platform in the FreightTech World
Pilot Truck Brokerage, formerly known as A & O Logistics, utilized the innovative Tech Suite to offer real-time FTL pricing and quotes. Users logged in and entered relevant information such as origin, destination, preferred equipment, and driver types to receive market-based quotes instantly. This process eliminated the need for email exchanges and reduced customer wait times, creating instant efficiencies.
As John Hill, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Pilot Freight Services, explained, “Pilot Truck Brokerage is a game changer for our current clients and potential customers. By bringing this service in-house, we are giving our current customers a huge advantage of real-time pricing to supplement their existing freight services. Providing efficient market-based solutions at the click of a button is just another way that Pilot is furthering our commitment to being a technology-forward, solutions-focused company.”
Leveraging Algorithms and APIs for Optimal Carrier Selection | FreightTech
One of the standout features of the Pilot Truck Brokerage platform was its proprietary scoring model. This model evaluated and connected client shipments with the best possible carrier at any given time, leveraging both spot market rates and availability rates. By utilizing sophisticated algorithms and integrating various APIs, the platform ensured that customers received the most cost-effective and efficient options for their freight needs.
Key APIs included:
A few of the key industry APIs that we used and developed to help support the core system requirements.
- Truckstop SPOT market for real-time FTL rates.
- Custom-built Availability API leveraging past and live carrier lane data to create best match on new / future loads. Included custom scoring module.
- Stripe and Plaid for secure payment processing, with built-in discounts based on payment speed.
- Descartes for additional lane availability.
- FMCSA data imports for instant carrier setup and safety checks.
- MercuryGate API for LTL pricing, tariff models, and load tracking.
Enhanced User Experience and Support
The Tech Suite dashboard not only allowed users to obtain real-time quotes but also provided functionalities such as shipment initiation and tracking, saving quotes, and generating activity reports. This comprehensive suite of tools enhanced the overall user experience, making logistics management more streamlined and efficient.
To complement the technology, a dedicated support team of regional managers was available to monitor incoming requests, lend expertise, and troubleshoot unexpected changes or issues. Additionally, the custom Driver Connect mobile application linked drivers directly to Pilot Truck Brokerage, maintaining a proactive, real-time schedule and ensuring on-time delivery. This app provided real-time tracking and simplified communication, leveraging custom GPS and mapping technology to minimize daily contact and keep drivers focused.
Significant Impact on the Logistics Industry
The introduction of Pilot Truck Brokerage had a profound impact on the logistics industry. By eliminating email exchanges and streamlining the process of obtaining FTL quotes, the platform improved operational efficiencies and enhanced margins on every load moved. The ability to connect client shipments with the best carriers using real-time data set a new standard in logistics management. Just a year after its launch, Pilot was acquired by Maersk, the largest freight logistics company in the world, highlighting the platform’s value and impact.
About Pilot Freight Services
Pilot Freight Services, Inc. is a full-service transportation and logistics provider with 83 locations throughout North America and several locations in Western Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. The company offers a comprehensive range of freight forwarding services, including air, ground, and ocean transportation, as well as expedited and time-definite services, international shipping solutions, and product warehousing and inventory management. Pilot’s online shipment navigator, CoPilot, further enhances the ease and security of online shipping.
