Any O/O's using tablets to track expenses, MPG, and other items?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by mr.travo, Mar 23, 2016.

  1. mr.travo

    mr.travo Bobtail Member

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    Just wondering if there are any O/O's out there on this forum that are using tablets to track their expenses, maintenance, MPG, and other items. Looking into doing this as I am finding it would be easier (and less room) than dragging out the laptop everyday.

    I am on AT&T and it would cost $10 a month to carry a tablet that can run off the network. I can get one that's just WiFi and run it off my phone for internet if needed. I am thinking about just a WiFi one because $10 a month would add up quick. Probably ends up being $30 a month after all the taxes and fees.

    As always, please post up any thoughts, ideas, suggestions, insults, whatever. LOL!

    Thanks!
     
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  3. Misesian

    Misesian Road Train Member

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    I just use my iPhone. I use Google Sheets to track my revenue, rate per mile, deadhead percentage, and profit per load. I use a scanner app to scan all receipts and forward those to my accountant. I used Google Sites to setup a domain so I have a professional email address. You can use a site like Fuelly.com or the one Rutherford sponsors to track MPG or even track it in a spreadsheet through Google Sheets.
     
  4. Bpat

    Bpat Bobtail Member

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    Currently use an Apple iPad 2, my iPad has the cell service capability. With the cell capability, the iPad also has a gps antenna. Extremely handy to use with google maps when navigating into a shipper or receiver. Practically all of our office work can be done on the iPad.
     
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  5. Yes. AT&T
    Yes. Tablet with sim chip
    Yes some ifta/ mileage/fuel
    Yes electronic logging device (keeptruckin' app)
     
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  6. Robert85006

    Robert85006 Medium Load Member

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    I make my own charts using excel and convert my data to either bar graphs or pie charts. Year to year data gets graphed longitudinally so I can visualize trends and how variables affect my monthly costs or revenue. I guess I could use pre-made software, but then I'd be bound to what the programs sets as parameters. I compile reports using word. Simple math and report writing gets the job done in my world.
     
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  7. mr.travo

    mr.travo Bobtail Member

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    I hear you Robert. That is what I am leaning towards now. Been giving it a lot of thought and research. Wanting to get an 8" iPad or Android tablet to replace the Rand GPS and laptop in the truck. Still thinking...
     
  8. maddmaxx96

    maddmaxx96 Bobtail Member

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    I use my iPad with a Logitech keyboard using cellular most of the time. I have my laptop with me and still use it for non-Internet based work. Or, if I need to save files to the Cloud I'll activate the hotspot briefly to do what I need to do then turn it off. I found out the hard way that using the hotspot uses more data than if I connect directly on my iPad. Just an FYI.
     
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  9. mr.travo

    mr.travo Bobtail Member

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    Thank you! Yes, I ended up getting an iPad Mini 3 (close out price) through AT&T. I enjoy it and it really doesn't use as much data as I thought. I now watch my videos on it so my tired eyes don't have to focus as much, LOL!

    I guess what I need to do is search for a good tracking program (or make my own excell sheets) so I can track mileage, MPG, expenses, repair costs, etc...
     
  10. maddmaxx96

    maddmaxx96 Bobtail Member

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    I would recommend Profit Gauges. It's an online accounting system specifically designed for truck drivers. It's extremely simple to use and it will give you great numbers automatically such as Gross Rate Per Mile, Costs Per Mile (total and by category) and Net Profit Per Mile. This can be VERY helpful especially when first starting.
     
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  11. mr.travo

    mr.travo Bobtail Member

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    Awesome!!! Thank you for that! I'll check it out and see if that shoe will fit (already sounds like it will).

    Thank you for the help!
     
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