For the last mile delivery, technology in the near future could see drones taking on the bulk of delivery. But does that mean a mass departure of truck drivers? 

Absolutely not. But everyone must change with the times.

We speak with Fred Kimble, Founder of Noah, about the future of technology in the trucking industry, how he continues to keep his drivers safe, and advice for those wanting to follow in Fred’s footsteps.  

Join us as we discuss:

• Incorporating the latest technology for drivers
• Driver facing cameras & the personal safety of drivers
• What’s next in the immediate future
• Advice for those wanting to enter the niche market
  
   

Incorporating the latest technology for drivers

Most people know how it feels to wait for an online purchase delivery; most people also know the frustration of waiting for that package. And with the increase in online purchases through the COVID-19 pandemic, a need to expedite that last mile delivery is growing more relevant. 

Think of a delivery sent out within the hour of purchase and landing at a designated doorstep location. For food delivery organizations like Meals on Wheels, the improvement could be game changing.

This is what Fred sees for the future with drones and UAVs. 

Where drivers will fit in

Online buyers everywhere would welcome the improvement; but where does that leave the drivers when their need diminishes? That same enthusiasm for quicker delivery might not be shared by drivers if it means less jobs.

While there may be less trucks on the road, Fred’s vision not only keeps employment at the same level, but improves salary for those drivers. How that’ll happen: Repurposing drivers as drone and UAV operators through navigation school.  

Improvements to delivery technology are bound to happen as we look to the future; making sure your workforce improves with the tech should be a top priority to every organization. 

“Look into the future, decide what you want to do based on analytics, and make some changes in your strategic plan.”

— Fred Kimble

Driver facing cameras & the personal safety of drivers

Opinions about the driver facing camera have remained divided. For experienced drivers with little to no accidents, it could feel invasive and potentially even an unjust punishment for the carelessness of others.

For Fred, it’s all about the safety of his team. If just one driver is paying attention to their phone instead of the road, it’s too much of a risk. Integrating these cameras is a way to keep everyone accountable.

But then, how do we account for those seasoned drivers with a perfect record? Should they receive special treatment for their history? 

It’s important to remember driver facing cameras are for safety but also improvement. The experienced driver might not have any accidents, but maybe there’s a small correction that they might not recognize that could benefit them in the long run. 

“We want to teach good habits and how to make better decisions with driver facing cameras.”

— Fred Kimble

What’s next in the immediate future

Drones and UAVs will help speed along delivery time in the future. 

In the meantime, however, Fred is seeing the demand for faster and faster delivery increase with every day that goes by. 

”In the last couple of years, COVID-19 has lowered the amount of traffic. But within the next 12 months, we'll be back to normal with high traffic congestion everywhere.”

— Fred Kimble

To combat this in the immediate future, in areas of high traffic and narrow streets, Fred and his team are using portable warehouses set in the middle of these areas. Then, using a system of bicycles and mopeds, the delivery group completes the last mile delivery.  

Advice for those wanting to enter the niche market

There’s an incredible amount of opportunity in last mile delivery, but getting started may be confusing for those unfamiliar with the market. 

Fred shares some parting advice for those looking to find their place within the niche:

• Do your market research
• Develop a preliminary business plan
• Find out who your competitors are
• Know the price points you need
• How much cash you need to start your business
• Pick a company that can provide safety within your fleet of vehicles

”We work with TruckSpy and they have been very good in providing safety-type technology that we use to reduce our accidents and injuries of our workers.”

— Fred Kimble

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