Avoiding logistics breakdowns by winter-proofing hauling operations

With winter storms blowing across North America, it is that time of the year when trucking fleets prepare checklists to ensure smoother operations during extreme temperature swings. FreightWaves spoke with John Luciani, the COO of LTL services at A. Duie Pyle, the transport and logistics provider, to understand what companies can do to operate their supply chains without interruptions in winter.

“In our capacity as a regional LTL provider, we have a preparation checklist that we run through, which includes details on when to fuel and instructions on preparing the power equipment for the season. Good preventative maintenance practices are followed to ensure windshield wipers, air dryers and DEF tanks do not have freeze-ups or breakdowns during the season,” said Luciani. “Fleets should also consider blended fuel, which can help prevent possible breakdowns due to gelling.”

This apart, drivers will have to be trained to handle adverse conditions without calling in backup unless the situation turns severe. For instance, truckers need to know how to install snow chains on their tires, and more importantly, recognize when they would have to be fitted.

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