There are many things happening in the forestry industry today that are basically unknown to many, thanks to all of the technological advancements available. One of the biggest technological advancements is smart forestry trucks that are known for making the transportation of logs more efficient. These vehicles have made quite an impact on the industry and are able to boast of efficient productivity without any safety standards compromise. Following is some interesting information as to how this particular innovation adds to the productivity of the forestry industry.

A Closer Look

The "Performance Based Standards (PBS)" or "Smart Vehicles," is one application for this heavy-duty equipment. PBS helps operators achieve outstanding performance, productivity and safety with its alternative approach brought about through regulation; safety standards; bridge loading standards; and road wear.

As the name suggests, PBS focuses on how this equipment performs on the road whatever the size may be. Another common name that is used for these vehicles is "smart forestry trucks" because they work as if equipped with a brain. Minimum performance standards are always met; these standards ensure equipment stability when the vehicle is moving as well as when turning and stopping.

These machines have an on-board, sophisticated driver’s monitoring program that has the ability to provide useful, detailed data about the performance of both the driver and the vehicle. This system is an effective tool to assist in determining the driving style of the operator, payload accuracy, performance, and fuel consumption.

‘Smart’ Benefits

When compared to the standard type of fleet equipment, this innovative vehicle offers benefits not only to the contractor but also to the worker.

• Increased Freight Capacity – Though this type of log transportation is just a little longer and bigger than standard equipment, it is capable of carrying larger payloads. For instance, a five-axle trailer that is 25 meters long can carry up to 12 tons more in comparison to a standard vehicle.

• Decreased Overall Cost – With the increased payload per trip, fewer vehicles may be needed for the project. Since the number of trips is reduced, wear and tear on the trucks will also be reduced.

• Environmentally Friendly – Making fewer trips will also result in less consumption of fuel as well as a decrease in harmful carbon emissions, making these vehicles more environmentally friendly.

• Higher Productivity – Because these trucks are built for road stability and handling ability, they can deliver more timber from the logging site to the mill with less down time for repairs, increasing overall productivity.

• Operator Safety – Standard logging transportation usually conforms to mass limitations and set dimensions, whereas smart forestry trucks meet certain standards in performance that relate to the equipment’s stability and safety. Therefore, contractors are assured that their operators will be able to perform day-to-day log hauling activities safely and efficiently.

Of course, every type of equipment has weaknesses, regardless of how powerful it may be, and smart forestry trucks are no exception. It is imperative when purchasing this type of equipment to negotiate with local dealers about choices and options, as there are some difficulties that may be encountered depending on each individual state and location, including operating requirements that vary from state to state. Even though the cost of these vehicles is higher than the more common version, it should be remembered that smart forestry trucks produce long-term positive financial results by making log transportation much more efficient!