Introduction
Accurately estimating route execution times is essential for smooth deliveries and efficient logistics planning. Unexpected delays, traffic conditions, and variations in task durations can disrupt schedules, leading to inefficiencies.
To address this, Mover TMS provides three key time estimates: Planned Estimate, Ongoing Estimate, and Actual Time. These estimates help Planners and Drivers stay informed, adjust to real-time conditions, and analyze performance to improve future operations.
Planned Estimate
Definition
The Planned Estimate is the initial time calculation under ideal conditions. It assumes the driver starts on time, follows the predefined route, and completes each stop within the estimated duration. This estimate is set before the driver begins the route and only changes if major modifications occur (e.g., stops added or removed).
Calculation
Based on estimated travel times and standard task durations.
Assumes no unexpected delays or variations.
Example
A driver is scheduled to start at 8:00 AM with a route that has four stops. Using historical data:
Travel time between stops: 10 minutes each.
Task duration (loading/unloading): 5 minutes per stop.
Planned Estimate: 4 stops × (10 min travel + 5 min task) = 60 minutes
Ongoing Estimate
Definition
The Ongoing Estimate is dynamic and adjusts in real time. It considers:
The driver’s actual position.
Live traffic conditions.
Deviations from the planned task durations.
As the route progresses, this estimate updates every few minutes to reflect real-world conditions.
Example
Continuing the previous scenario:
The driver starts on time at 8:00 AM.
At 8:10 AM, the system detects heavy traffic on the second leg of the journey.
One task takes 7 minutes instead of the planned 5 minutes.
The Ongoing Estimate now projects the total route time as 70 minutes instead of 60 minutes, accounting for delays.
Actual Time
Definition
The Actual Time is the final recorded duration once the route is completed. It reflects:
Unforeseen delays.
Faster-than-expected execution.
Actual time spent at each stop.
Example
After completing the route, the system records:
Total time taken: 72 minutes (due to delays and slower traffic).
This data is useful for analyzing route efficiency and refining future planned estimates.
Comparison and Usage
The Estimate | When It's Used | Key Factors |
Planned Estimate | Before route execution | Historical data, ideal conditions |
Ongoing Estimate | During the route | Live traffic, real-time driver progress |
Actual Time | After route completion | Real execution time, deviations from plan |
How Mover TMS Uses These Estimates
Timelines View: Displays planned vs. actual execution times, helping Planners analyze delays.
Live Tracking: Uses Ongoing Estimates to predict delivery times and inform customers.
Post-Route Analysis: Compares actual performance against planned estimates to improve future planning.
By understanding and utilizing these estimates, Planners can make data-driven decisions to enhance route efficiency and customer satisfaction.