Everything You Need to Know About Self-Driving Trucks — and Why They Matter in Auto Transport
You may be wondering what self-driving trucks are and what they mean for the auto transport industry. Self-driving trucks, or autonomous trucks, are essentially carrier vehicles with advanced technologies that navigate them on-route with little to no driver input.
These state-of-the-art trucks could improve trucking logistics with speedier vehicle delivery, more efficient scheduling, and possibly lower operational costs. However, the auto shipping industry is not ready to replace traditional car transport carriers just yet.
How Self-Driving Trucks Are Changing Auto Transport Logistics
1. Shorter Auto Transport Delivery Timeline
Self-driving trucks could offer faster long-distance car shipping, without downtime, as they don’t require rest breaks on-route.
2. Potentially Lower Auto Transport Costs
As self-driving technology advances, autonomous vehicle delivery solutions may reduce fuel and labor costs, increasing shippers’ savings.
3. Greater Long-Haul Safety
Are self-driving trucks safe for long-haul shipping? Self-driving trucks reduce potential risks along the road, as they eliminate the two major causes of auto transport delays and accidents —human fatigue and distraction.
Are Car Shipping Services Ready to Opt for Autonomous Trucks?
Not just yet. Most autonomous cargo testing is currently limited to box trucks and dry van logistics. Human expertise is still primarily required to operate the unique demands of open and enclosed auto shipping carriers.
Why Autonomous Trucks Can’t Replace Enclosed Auto Transport Drivers
High-end and exotic auto transportation requires enclosed carriers, manual inspections, and careful handling. These tasks are beyond the abilities of current trucking automation.
Why the Auto Transport Industry Still Needs Human Drivers
Despite all the enthusiasm surrounding trucking automation in the auto transport industry, there are real limits.
- Complex pickup/drop-off locations are still a struggle for AI
- Auto inspections and VIN verification require human expertise
- Vehicle loading/unloading processes on multi-car carriers is not yet automated
That’s why professional car shipping companies like Global Auto Transportation continue to rely on skilled drivers.
Self-Driving Trucks and the Future of Auto Transportation
While self-driving technology can modernize and simplify long-distance car shipping in the future, auto transport services will still still require fleet managers for:
- Door-to-door car shipping
- Auto auction pickups
- Commercial car shipping and multi-car fleet logistics
- Long-haul car transport, which require human loading and documentation
How Global Auto Transportation Is Preparing
We at Global Auto Transportation carefully monitor emerging trucking automation trends while continuing to provide:
- Highly experienced and licensed drivers
- Auto transportation services across the U.S.A.
- Open and enclosed carrier transportation options
- Insurance-backed, real-time support and updates
Whether shipping cross-country, classic car transporting, or even snowbird shipping, our team at Global Auto Transportation is committed to optimized, secure, and reliable auto shipping solutions that meet regulatory compliance.
Will Autonomous Trucks Replace Auto Shipping Drivers?
Within the next decade, self-driving technology will advance trucking logistics and management. However, for the time being, auto shipping depends on:
- Human-powered logistics
- Real-time support and secure auto handling
- Customer service and accountability
We at Global Auto Transportation are excited by innovation and emerging trends, as well as dedicated to maintaining fast, hassle-free, and secure auto deliveries for every customer.
Ready to Book Our Reliable Auto Transport Services?
Whether shipping a car across the U.S.A or just a few states away, Global Auto Transportation is committed to delivering the perfect blend of trucking logistics innovation and human expertise.
Contact Us and Get Your Free Quote Today on our reliable auto transportation services.
