This article explains how route metrics, the total duration and total distance, are calculated for tours
Overview
Introduction
MotionTools estimates the route metrics, the total duration and total distance, for every tour. These metrics are available on the Dashboard and through the API on the booking details payload.
Route metrics help logistics operators plan tours more efficiently by providing accurate estimates of total duration and distance, enabling better resource allocation and timely deliveries. They also support cost control, SLA monitoring, and operational transparency, all of which are critical for scalable and reliable operations.
Quality of service levels
Route metrics are calculated on two quality levels: Basic and Accurate.
On the Basic level, route metrics are calculated using a straight line between stops. This level is enabled by default.
On the Accurate level, route metrics are based on the actual route the driver is supposed to take. Accurate route calculations come with higher costs and are only available in our Enterprise plan. Please contact our Support Team at [email protected] if you'd like to switch to Enterprise.
Route metrics calculation principles
The initial route metrics are calculated at the time of creating a Tour and recalculated once the Tour starts. They are also updated on route changes, such as changes in stop order and the addition or removal of stops.
When estimating times, the calculation takes into account stop durations, which are the average times that drivers need to complete a stop. You can define stop durations for each service you offer via the Dashboard. An article on how and where to do this will be published soon.
The route metrics calculation takes into account the specific vehicle type used for each Tour. If a driver is assigned, the driver’s vehicle type will be used for the calculations. If no driver is assigned, the tour’s vehicle type is used. If neither is set, the tenant’s default vehicle type is used. This ensures route metrics accurately reflect real-world differences between bikes, cars, vans, and other vehicles.
Route metrics on the Dashboard
You can view the metrics on the Operations, Tours, and Tour Details pages.
Booking Card
Metrics are shown on the booking card on the Operations page or the Tours page in Map view. If hidden on the Operations page, enable them in the Edit Rows dropdown.
List View
On the Tours page in list view Metrics are shown in the Route metrics column. If the column is hidden, enable it in the Edit Columns dropdown.
Tour Details page
On the Tour Details page metrics are displayed under the Route section title.
