New Propane Control Room Technology is a Major Money-Saver

05/24/2007

CHS propane customers will soon gain online access to the industry’s leading route planning, scheduling and optimization software through the Propane Control Room. Called MySmartDrops.com, the service integrates seamlessly with customers’ existing software systems to help retailers deliver more gallons in less time using fewer resources.

“By lowering mileage, driver costs, gas usage and maintenance expenses, we typically reduce overall costs associated with propane delivery by 30 percent — even more for larger fleets that can often take a vehicle off the road entirely,” says Vinny Mullineaux, CEO of software provider Vertrax, New Haven, Conn. “MySmartDrops will automatically create the optimal route for each propane truck, packed with as many deliveries as mathematically possible. Developed specifically for the retail propane industry, this unique program can handle every type of order, including will calls.”

“Partnering with Vertrax to offer this service at a substantial savings to our customers is another example of our commitment to helping retailers compete more effectively and profitably,” says Andy Arendt, CHS director of propane marketing and equipment. “We’re dedicated to providing the latest and greatest management tools through the Propane Control Room.”

Country Comfort in Almena, Wis., has seen a dramatic improvement in efficiency in its first year of using the SmartDrops program. “Instead of spending 45 minutes each morning plotting their own routes, our drivers come in, get their data cards and hit the road,” says General Manager Dennis St. Aubin. “In the past, one driver might have 35 drops on any given day while another had 15; now we can easily balance the workload so each driver gets close to 25 drops, which is a huge help during the winter months. We’re delivering more propane than ever, yet we’re putting far fewer miles on the trucks and we’ve greatly reduced driver overtime.”

Retailers are encouraged to watch their mail for more information from Vertrax in mid-June and to subscribe promptly to receive the new service without delay. For more information, contact John Rosen of Vertrax at (617) 429-4805 or jrosen@vertrax.com, or contact Andy Arendt, Joe Schnichels or Linda Krech of CHS at 800-232-3639, ext. 8428, 8429 or 8465.

Article from CHS – Land O’Lakes Member Services: ePreview News and Employment for Cooperatives, May 24, 2007