Trucking companies must schedule drivers in such a way that they move a series of loads during a given period of time. Each load has an origin (where the load is collected) and a destination (where the load is deposited). Each driver may handle several loads during a given time period. The driver's work schedule usually consists of a sequence of loaded and empty movements. While some tools exist to help trucking companies construct these work schedules, most are fairly limited. Hence, the TIDE Center is developing technologies that will help trucking firms respond to new orders, changing traffic conditions, and changing appointments.

First, the Center is developing routing and scheduling algorithms that will help trucking firms use their resources efficiently. In particular, the Center focuses on the solution of ultra-large scale problems that involve thousands of drivers and vehicles.

Second, the Center is developing technologies for accurately forecasting future requests. Transportation services are usually subject to volatile demand conditions. This is reflected in seasonal and daily variations in customer call-ins as well as long-term shifts in demand patterns. The Center is developing forecasting technologies that can be used to handle the stochastic nature of demand processes.

Finally, the Center is developing technologies for forecasting future travel times and using these predicted times when making decisions.