Using Advanced Information Systems to Improve Freight Efficiency: Results from a Pilot Program in Colombia

The efficiency of the urban and inter-urban freight transport sector is crucial for Colombia's economic competitiveness, and the government continually engages in projects to improve freight transport activities. Recently, as part of a program towards the reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and the improvement of efficiency from the transportation sector, the Ministry of Transport pilot tested advanced information services using a freight brokerage system. This work discusses the results of this pilot program. Specifically, the work discusses the data collection methodology, provides details about the program, and describes the findings. The study had three stages. First, a socio-economic analysis of at least 500 vehicles/drivers, based on information from both vehicles and drivers. Second, the implementation of an ESD tool (Engine System Diagnostic Tool) device on the vehicle computer to measure some control variables of importance. Last, the data analysis of potential reduction on empty trips. The results show that the program can reduce the number of empty and non-revenue generating trips of the over-the-road freight transport (45% of trips in Colombia are empty) and improve the system. Specifically, the program reduced a third of these trips and generated new revenue trips to the participating carrier companies. However, the system reduced empty trips by 20%, and increased the number of trips per month, therefore, yielding more return on investment to drivers/vehicles and to the carrier.