- Recurrence (Automated Planning)
In Astra TMS, "Recurrence" refers to the automation of repeated transport activities. Instead of manual entry, the system handles predictable patterns to save time and reduce errors.
Recurring Loads: Set up "Template Loads" for fixed contracts (e.g., a weekly pickup every Monday). This ensures capacity is reserved and avoids last-minute booking stress.
Recurring Deadhead: Identification of consistent "Empty Mile" patterns. If the system detects a recurring empty leg, it triggers a "Backhaul Search" to find freight and turn those miles into revenue.
Recurring Maintenance: Automatic triggers for vehicle inspections based on mileage intervals logged within the TMS.
- Fuel (The Primary Variable Cost)
Fuel tracking in Astra TMS allows for real-time monitoring of the fleet's largest expense.
IFTA Integration: Automatic logging of fuel purchases by state/province to simplify International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) reporting.
Fuel Surcharges (FSC): Automated calculation of fuel surcharges based on the current DOE (Department of Energy) national average.
Efficiency Metrics: Tracking MPG (Miles Per Gallon) per driver and per vehicle to identify underperforming assets or "lead-foot" driving habits.
- Tolls (Route Expense Optimization)
Toll management ensures that the "fastest" route doesn't become the most "expensive" route.
Toll Estimation: Integration with mapping APIs to provide estimated toll costs during the quoting phase.
Actual vs. Estimated: Reconciliation of toll transponder data (like E-ZPass or PrePass) against the original trip estimate to identify discrepancies.
Avoidance Logic: Routing parameters that allow dispatchers to "Avoid Tolls" if the cost of the toll exceeds the value of the time saved.
- Other (Accessorials & Incidentals)
The "Other" category captures all miscellaneous costs that can erode profit margins if not properly billed back to the customer.
Detention Fees: Charges applied when a driver is kept waiting at a shipper or receiver's dock beyond the "free time" (usually 2 hours).
Lumper Fees: Payments made to third-party laborers who load or unload the trailer.
Layover Pay: Compensation for drivers who are stuck waiting for a load for an extended period (usually 24 hours).
Scale Fees: Costs for weighing the truck to ensure legal compliance with axle weight limits.`
