How Reddy Ice Improved Delivery Efficiency
Learn how the leading ice manufacturer in the U.S. increased driver productivity by streamlining their workflows.
Meet Reddy Ice
Cumbersome workflows meant drivers experienced delays starting their routes
Reddy Ice, the leading ice manufacturer in the U.S., delivers ice to major retailers, grocery stores, and gas stations. Not only does Reddy Ice manufacturer and distribute ice in-house, but they also work with distributors who operate on behalf of Reddy Ice.
In order to maintain customer satisfaction, Reddy Ice incorporates customer requests to replenish iceboxes into their routing plans. This means routes are created dynamically on the day of delivery, based on inventory and customer orders. “Our routes are based on the information the drivers share with us,” said Ray Mills, Senior Manager of Fleet Safety. “They tell us where things are at today, so we know where to go tomorrow.”
In addition, drivers relied on a disjointed collection of tools: paper DVIRs, paper route sheets, and an ELD that did not integrate with their routing software. This meant drivers had to navigate logistical roadblocks before they could start their shift.
Easy-to-use tools streamlined workflows for drivers
Reddy Ice uses Samsara’s streamlined solution to log hours of service (HOS), digitize DVIRs, and integrate with their routing software to ensure drivers are set up for success.
Digital workflows made it easier for drivers to manage their vehicle inspections, saving them time at the start and end of their days. And, an ELD solution, was not only easier to use, but ensured their hours were tracked accurately as well. "From their phone, our drivers can log into the vehicle, do their pre-trip inspection, get their routes, pin to that route and then get on the road,” said Mills. “That's where we can reduce a lot of negative downtime. We now have a product that helps our drivers get on the road faster, make deliveries, and keep our customers happy.”
Samsara’s integration with their routing software, RoadNet, meant that Reddy Ice could eliminate paper route sheets, which meant better route execution and planning. In fact, they were able to stagger their routes and incorporate night routes, which helped their drivers get out of the yard and start their shift more quickly. And once they were on the road, managers could use Samsara’s route playback feature to coach drivers on which routes to take, eliminating unnecessary miles from their trips. With real-time, GPS data, managers had a more granular view of each driver’s route, and could more effectively coach employees. ”Using route playback, our managers now know when drivers deviate off the route,” said Mills. “Now we can coach our employees to be better and safer drivers on the road.”
Increased driver productivity, saving 200+ hours per day
By consolidating paper DVIRs, paper route sheets, and HOS into a single app, Reddy Ice has been able to save 200+ hours per day, meaning drivers are able to get on the road and be productive, faster.
Furthermore, a streamlined ELD and DVIR solution meant drivers were completing their paperwork more frequently, which reduced failed roadside inspections by 19% YoY and decreased their CSA score.
