When we consider the benefits of UPS trucks, we might consider a few of the features that make them so loud. These features include their repurposed nature, no left-hand turning system, and loud exhaust systems. And if you are looking for an environmentally conscious company, UPS has its environmental statement on its web site.
Repurposed UPS trucks
Repurposed UPS trucks are a lot louder than the regular type. This is because they don’t have an electronic system for detecting errant packages, which requires drivers to walk a long way to retrieve them. Instead, they have to call a supervisor to transfer them to another vehicle.
Despite their loudness, UPS package trucks still carry a certain brand image. The company would not want someone to use its brand in a negative way. It would also hate for someone to use a UPS van to speed through school zones. The company would never sell a truck to someone who would misuse it. Moreover, it doesn’t want to pay high prices for it if it wasn’t safe for customers to receive the packages. Therefore, UPS is preventing secondary-market buyers from repurposing their vehicles.
UPS is investing in technology to make their vehicles safer. The company has a $1 billion budget every year for this purpose. The budget covers the development of new mapping software and upgrades for drivers’ tools. The company is also investing in machines to sort packages and other technologies to optimize delivery routes.
No left-hand turn system
UPS trucks almost never make left-hand turns, preferring to make right-hand turns instead. This has been a practice since the days before computers and GPS. Today, UPS vehicles are managed by software which automatically calculates the most efficient route. This policy is designed to save on fuel and reduce emissions. UPS claims that it uses 10 million less gallons of fuel a year. As a result, they can make more deliveries and use fewer trucks.
The company began avoiding left turns in the 1970s, first plotting deliveries in right-turn loops. In addition, the company began to favor right-hand turns as they saved fuel. This practice continues today, with UPS launching its Orion routing software in 2008. This system calculates the best routes for each truck, favoring right-hand turns. Logistics expert Steve Levis says this policy was born out of the need to reduce fuel consumption.
Loud exhaust system
Choosing the correct exhaust system is one of the most important parts of your truck. There are a variety of different options available, and determining which one will best fit your truck is a vital first step. Some of the most common types of exhaust systems are straight-pipe and big stack, which have large diameter fluted pipes that are attached to the exhaust system. These types of exhaust systems are able to generate a very loud sound, so you should consider the design of your truck’s exhaust system when choosing a replacement system.
Sensors
UPS drivers are trained to drive with a sense of urgency. They use sensors inside their trucks to detect if packages are being misloaded or are in the wrong truck. They can use the information to devise time-saving tactics. The UPS truck is notoriously noisy, and it’s hard to hear if you’re inside the truck.
Bluetooth receivers
Last year, UPS began outfitting their delivery trucks with Bluetooth receivers. These devices are small, five-inch beacons that emit a loud beep if a package is misloaded. When a package is in the correct truck, it emits a different beep. This is the result of a new delivery system that sends wireless signals between the Bluetooth beacons and UPS delivery workers’ scanning devices.
When selecting a Bluetooth receiver, look for the latest version. The newer version of Bluetooth will provide a better connection. Although this does not guarantee a perfect connection, it will help reduce the frequency of broken connections. If you’re using a Bluetooth transmitter, you may want to get one that is Class 1 or higher. Class 1 Bluetooth can offer a better range and less interference than Class 2 Bluetooth, which can sometimes lead to a loss of quality sound.
