Optimise the load factor of your vans
If you rely on delivery vans to deliver parcels, you know how important it is to optimise the load factor of your vans. A low load factor can lead to higher costs, increased CO2 emissions and a less efficient supply chain. Fortunately, there are several solutions to optimise the load factor of your vans. In this article, we share some practical tips and strategies you can use to get the most out of your vans and improve your company's performance.
The consequences of low load factor
In the logistics sector, optimising van load factor is an important issue.This is because a low load factor can have several consequences for your business. We have listed some of these consequences for you.
1. Number of empty vans on the road
A low load factor results in more half-empty vans on the highway. There is no exact percentage of the number of empty vans on the road as it depends on several factors, such as location, time of day and type of business.
CBS statistics show that 27 per cent of vehicle kilometres in commercial road transport are empty. But what exactly does that mean? It means that one in four kilometres is travelled with an empty truck or van. The same statistics show that the percentage of empty vehicle kilometres from own transport is higher. This percentage is above 30 per cent. This percentage is higher because own transport is not allowed to take third-party orders and parcels. This is obviously a high percentage, which is why solutions to reduce this percentage are increasingly being considered.
It is important to note that the percentage of empty vans can vary by sector and company. For example, there are companies that are already doing a lot to organise their transport more efficiently, resulting in fewer empty vans on the road. By efficiently planning routes, fewer vehicles are needed for the same number of parcels.
2. Increased CO2 emissions and air pollution
A low load factor results in more vans being used for the same number of parcels. More vans on the road also means more CO2 emissions and air pollution. This has a negative impact on the environment and people's health.
3. Higher fuel costs
Using more vans not only increases CO2 emissions, it will also increase monthly fuel costs. If your van is not fully loaded, it means more trips are needed to transport the same amount of parcels.
4. Reduced efficiency
When a van is not fully loaded, it can be less efficient in performing tasks for which a van is intended. Think of delivering parcels. With an optimal load factor, the van can deliver more parcels in its round than when the van is not optimally loaded. The delivery van has to return to the depot, only to drive another round. Optimal load factor ensures efficiency.
Solutions for optimal load factor
To solve the problem of not fully loaded vans on the road, several solutions are possible. One of the most obvious solutions is to load the van optimally, however, this is not so simple because not every parcel has the same dimensions. In addition, you need to take into account which parcels are delivered first. By better coordinating routes and looking at which vans are already fully loaded, you can save a lot of money on vans that are not optimally loaded. We will discuss some solutions with you.
1. Efficient route planning software
The first, and most complete solution is to use route planning software. The right route planning software can increase the low load factor. With route planning software, the capacity of the vehicle is taken into account. Because the route planning software takes the vehicle capacity into account, the vans are optimally loaded. In addition, the route planning software calculates the most efficient route, thus better coordinating deliveries. Using route planning software can lead to less traffic on the road and less air pollution. We will tell you more about using route planning software later in the article.
2. Collaboration with other delivery services
Bundling orders by collaborating with other delivery services can lead to more efficient routes. By planning more efficient routes, delivery vehicles can be loaded in an efficient way, increasing the load factor. By working together, companies can reduce the number of trips needed to deliver the same orders, saving time and fuel.
3. Use the right packaging materials
Take a critical look at the packaging materials you currently use. Using the right packaging materials is an important factor in optimising van load factors. By using the right packaging materials, more can be transported and the load factor can be improved. Keep in mind the dimensions and weight of the goods. It is important to consider the dimensions in relation to the space available. It is also wise to use lightweight packaging. Finally, you should look at the stackability of packaging. Go for packaging that is easily stackable and make use of straps and pallets to improve the load factor.
4. Measuring is knowing
Measuring and analysing van load factors is essential for continuous improvement. By understanding the load factor, it is possible to see where there is room for improvement and work on optimising the load factor. Consider using sensors in the van to measure weight, or manually tracking weight in an app. By continuously measuring and analysing the load factor, you work towards the optimal load factor.
Route planning software for the most efficient route
Optimising the load factor of your delivery vans is not only important from a sustainability point of view, but also from a cost-saving perspective. The more efficient transport logistics are, the lower transport costs are for companies.
Route planning software can help optimise van loading by planning van routes more efficiently based on vehicle capacity. By using smart algorithms, the software can determine which van is best suited for which delivery, and which routes are the most efficient for combining multiple deliveries.
In this way, the software can ensure that delivery vans are loaded as full as possible and that empty kilometres are minimised. This not only reduces the number of empty vans on the road, but also reduces harmful emissions and costs for the company.
In addition, Route Planning software can also help optimise parcel delivery, for example by spreading delivery times over the day. This avoids peak times and allows more to be delivered with the same amount of delivery vans.
However, using route planning software can not only help optimise the load factor of your delivery vans, but can also contribute to better customer satisfaction. By optimising delivery times and better scheduling deliveries, companies can offer faster and more reliable deliveries, leading to a better customer experience.
In short, using route planning software can make a significant contribution to optimising delivery van load factors and improving the sustainability of the transport sector. It can also lead to cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.
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