The perceived usefulness of different sources of traffic information to trucking operations

Managers in charge of the California operations of nearly 1200 trucking companies were asked their opinions regarding how useful various sources of traffic information are to their dispatchers and to their drivers. They were also asked to evaluate the usefulness of improved traveler information systems. Non-linear canonical correlation analysis was used to link company characteristics and perceptions of the value of the sources. Results showed that evaluations of sources such as Internet traffic information, in-vehicle navigation systems, and area-wide dedicated highway advisory radio are primarily related to the location of operations, whether a trucking operation is private or for-hire, the average length of the company's load moves, and the provision of intermodal services.