This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant we’re unpacking the rollout of Picture Proof of Delivery (PPOD) in the FedEx space with Dave + Amy Byers — exploring its origins, key metrics, and operational challenges. Learn how PPOD is reshaping delivery standards across the industry, and gain practical strategies for maintaining efficiency and exceptional customer service as this new process takes hold.

This week on Industry Insights with Route Consultant, we're exploring essential truck maintenance strategies with Alex Frum, owner of Alpha Kilo Logistics. Alex shares invaluable tips on preventative maintenance, building strong relationships with dealers, and managing breakdowns efficiently. Whether you're using OEM schedules, third-party software for tracking, or full-service leases, Alex's insights on maintaining a smooth trucking operation are a must-watch for anyone in logistics.

What many contractors don’t know, however, is that there is a strong argument for using full-service leases in some cases. If you have routes that travel 35,000 miles a year or less, a full-service vehicle lease may be the best option for you.

Fuel cards are the way your drivers will pay for fuel (if you enroll in a fuel card program). These cards look like a credit card, but there are important differences between a fuel card and a credit card.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are all the rage in today’s consumer market. Many cities and states, particularly on the east and west coasts, are edging ever closer to lowering emissions and adopting a more electric vehicle friendly environment. FedEx Ground has vowed to be fully carbon neutral by 2040. EVs will certainly be a big part of that initiative.

When you invest in a bread route, your delivery vehicle is more than just transportation—it’s one of the most important assets in your business. A smart fleet strategy can improve your efficiency, increase profitability, and reduce long-term operating costs.

A fleet strategy is your plan for acquiring, operating, and maintaining the delivery vehicle—or fleet of vehicles—used to run your bread route.

Our team of actual FedEx contractors worked through the math of new FedEx trucks versus used FedEx trucks in our own operations. We always want to make the most efficient choice for our fleets. We have compelling data that shows new trucks are the superior option for routes that are 150 miles per day or less. Why is this the case?

Many contractors overlook the importance of a good fleet strategy. In the linehaul space, this becomes especially important since you’re dealing with very large, very expensive pieces of equipment that can make or break your business if something goes wrong. Creating a strong fleet strategy will not only improve the efficiency of your organization but save you a massive amount of money in the long run.