Transparency along the supply chain through subcontractor tracking

How subcontractor tracking via telematics app provides clarity

Sometimes progress is audible. This at least applies to modern telematics solutions, which significantly reduce the noise level in the open-plan offices of fleet operators. Background: A large number of phone calls are no longer necessary if the current location of all vehicles and the shipment status of all orders are permanently “on the screen”.

However, this can only be achieved if not only the company’s own drivers but also the subcontractors are integrated into the telematics solution. Traditional telematics solutions often reach their limits here – especially if external partners do not have compatible hardware or are not integrated into existing systems.

Modern driver apps such as “pLG Drive” from proLogistik offer a convincing solution here: they enable seamless, hardware-independent integration of subcontractors and thus create the basis for end-to-end transparency along the entire supply chain.

The challenge: lack of transparency with subcontractors

Subcontractors are an integral part of many logistics networks. They ensure flexibility, scalability and cost efficiency. At the same time, however, they bring with them a central challenge: the loss of control and transparency. While in-house vehicles and drivers are usually fully integrated into telematics systems, subcontractors often lack this integration.

Different technical standards, missing interfaces or non-existent hardware make consistent data collection difficult. This results in media disruptions, manual queries and, in the worst case, dissatisfied customers.

The solution: telematics via app instead of hardware

This is where modern driver apps come in. Instead of relying on permanently installed telematics hardware, they use smartphones or tablets as a central interface. The “pLG Drive” app from proLogistik is an example of such a solution. It acts as a mobile platform for complete order management and provides all relevant functions directly on the driver’s end device.

A key advantage of app-based solutions is the simple integration of subcontractors. All they need is a compatible end device and access to the app. Training requirements and technical hurdles are minimal.

The same applies to language barriers, as drivers can select their preferred language in the pLG Drive app – the application supports around 20 languages. Messages between dispatchers and drivers can be exchanged in these languages, including a read-aloud function. This makes communication easier, prevents misunderstandings and increases acceptance.

Thanks to its simple handling, the pLG Drive app ensures great flexibility. Especially in times of volatile markets, when additional capacity is needed at short notice, this flexibility is a major competitive advantage. Companies can quickly expand their network without having to launch complex IT projects.

Advantages of subcontractor tracking via telematics app:

Fast implementation: No time-consuming installation of hardware necessary
High acceptance: drivers are familiar with mobile devices and can use the app in their native language
Flexibility: Subcontractors can be integrated at short notice
Cost efficiency: No investment in additional devices

Central functions for maximum transparency

The strength of an app like pLG Drive lies in the combination of different functions that together provide a complete picture of the supply chain.

This starts with order and route management. Drivers receive their tours and orders directly on their mobile device. Deliveries and collections are clearly displayed and can be updated in real time. This reduces misunderstandings and ensures a clear structure in day-to-day business.

Another important function is the recording of delivery status and consignment information. Every step in the delivery process is documented digitally. Whether “in delivery”, “delivered” or “undeliverable” – all status messages are transmitted to the head office in real time. This creates seamless shipment tracking.

ETA calculation as great added value

The calculation and transmission of the ETA (estimated time of arrival) provides great added value. The app continuously calculates this value and automatically adjusts it in the event of delays. Dispatchers and customers are therefore informed of the current status at all times – a decisive advantage for planning reliability.

Proof of delivery can also be mapped with a sophisticated driver app such as pLG Drive. Finally, the proof of delivery (POD) is a central element of delivery transparency. The app allows recipients to sign directly on the display. This digital proof is immediately available and stored in an audit-proof manner.

The photos of damaged or properly parked goods taken by the driver via the app are also immediately available. They serve as important evidence and significantly reduce disputes.

Accelerated processes thanks to barcode capture

Last but not least, barcodes or NFC tags can also be recorded using a driver app in conjunction with a modern smartphone. This uniquely identifies consignments, minimizes sources of error and speeds up the entire process.

Safety-relevant aspects can also be digitally mapped with a driver app. Drivers can document departure checks and record vehicle statuses. This increases operational safety and supports compliance with legal requirements.

The noise reduction in the open-plan office mentioned at the beginning should also not go unmentioned here. This is not only related to the permanent lane tracking of all vehicles, but also to the messaging functions. These enable rapid coordination between driver and dispatcher. Queries, changes or problems can be clarified digitally and without wasting time.

The tiresome topic of loading equipment management is also supported by the driver apps. Pallets, containers and other loading equipment are digitally recorded and managed via the app. This creates transparency regarding stocks and movements and prevents losses.

Central functions of a driver app like pLG Drive:

Order and route management
Recording of delivery status and shipment information
ETA calculation and transmission
Digital signatures (POD)
Photo documentation
Barcode and NFC scanning
Vehicle status and departure checks (UVV)
Communication with the scheduling department
Loading equipment management

Added value for everyone involved

The introduction of such a telematics app not only brings technical advantages, but also has a direct impact on the entire organization. Dispatchers receive real-time data on all vehicles – regardless of whether they are their own or third-party fleets. This makes planning easier, reduces the coordination effort and enables proactive intervention in the event of disruptions.

The app simplifies the daily work routine for drivers. Clear instructions, digital documentation and simple communication ensure greater efficiency and less stress. Customers benefit from transparent delivery processes. Precise time slots, up-to-date status information and traceable proof of delivery create trust.

Thanks to the driver app, the company has access to consistent data that enables in-depth analysis and optimization. Processes become more efficient, error rates fall and service quality increases.

Data as a basis for optimization

The data collected by the app forms the basis for continuous improvements. For example, companies can analyze and optimize delivery times, identify bottlenecks at an early stage and compare key performance indicators (KPIs) for subcontractors.

The data from the driver apps also provides the basis for further automating processes. This turns pure transparency into a strategic management tool.

Versatile use of data from driver apps:

Analyze and optimize delivery times
Recognize bottlenecks at an early stage
Compare key performance indicators (KPIs) for subcontractors
Automate processes

Conclusion: Transparency as a competitive advantage

The digitalization of the supply chain does not end at the boundaries of your own fleet. The integration of subcontractors in particular determines whether processes are truly transparent throughout.

Telematics apps such as “pLG Drive” show how this challenge can be solved pragmatically: without additional hardware, with a high level of user-friendliness and maximum flexibility. They create a standardized database, improve communication and enable seamless tracking of all transport processes.

Companies that rely on such solutions not only benefit from greater transparency, but also from more efficient processes, more satisfied customers and greater competitiveness. In an industry where time, quality and reliability are crucial, this is a clear advantage.

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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the Data Warehouse

Transparency enables companies to track the status of vehicles and consignments at all times. This reduces coordination efforts, makes processes more efficient and increases customer satisfaction.

Although subcontractors provide flexibility, they often lead to a lack of transparency, as they are frequently not integrated into existing telematics systems and use different technical standards.

Traditional systems usually require special hardware that subcontractors often do not have or cannot integrate. This results in media disruptions and missing data.

Driver apps such as pLG Drive use mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets and thus enable simple, hardware-independent integration of subcontractors.

It enables rapid implementation without hardware installation, high acceptance among drivers, flexible integration of partners and lower costs.

The most important functions include order and route management, real-time status messages, ETA calculation, digital signatures (POD), photo documentation as well as barcode and NFC scanning.

ETA stands for “Estimated Time of Arrival”. It is continuously calculated and updated so that dispatchers and customers are informed about the delivery status at all times.

Integrated messaging functions allow drivers and dispatchers to communicate quickly and directly, reducing phone calls and speeding up coordination.

The data enables analyses to optimize delivery times, identify bottlenecks and compare key performance indicators and forms the basis for automated processes.

Companies benefit from end-to-end transparency, more efficient processes, better planning and greater customer satisfaction – a clear competitive advantage in the logistics sector.

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proLogistik Holding GmbH
Fallgatter 1
44369 Dortmund

Tel.: +49 (0) 231 5194-0
Tel.: +41 (0) 44 200 40-00
Tél.: +33 (0) 251 81 85 85

info@prologistik.com