Walmart, the science team of the platform to improve technology

In a bid to expand its network of 12,000 drivers despite a nationwide shortage, Walmart is offering new technology tools that the retail giant says will “create a world-class driving experience.”

“Our latest approach leverages technology to transform drivers’ lives by removing friction and unlocking their potential,” the company said in a statement. Press release Monday (June 20).

One of the offerings, developed with transportation technology company Platform Science, gives Walmart drivers interactive tablets that connect to the company’s NTransit driver workflow system.

Walmart said the integration “provides near real-time visibility into the location of our assets within the fleet to ensure freight arrives on time and in the right place,” helping to avoid supply chain pain points. ‘supply.

The retailer is also using the technology to make it easier for drivers to communicate with store employees, according to the announcement. The system also uses geolocation capabilities, so store staff know when drivers are likely to arrive and can be ready to quickly unload trailers.

The systems the company is putting in place will make it easy for drivers to report developments that are slowing their progress, according to the statement. The tool helps “by allowing drivers to communicate what they have accomplished on the road. This way they are compensated for miles and non-driving related activities beyond what was originally planned.

The integration of the new tools into the work of the drivers has led to “a significant increase in driver satisfaction”, notes the press release.

Walmart’s efforts to make life easier for truckers comes at a difficult time for the industry. PYMNTS reported that in late May, truckers were facing tank fill tabs approaching $1,700.

See also: Retailers seek new supply chain efficiencies to offset surge in diesel

The average price of a gallon of diesel fuel sold along a national highway as of June 13, 2022 was $5.72, according to the US Energy Information Administration. A year ago, the figure was $3.29.