Apply Problem-Solving, Mathematical Concepts and Relevant Technology at Work
What this domain tests
Problem-solving and workplace mathematics: payload, fuel, time, cost and unit conversion, plus the sensible use of technology such as a calculator, GPS, telematics or a fuel log.
Core rules
- Payload = GVW minus tare. For a combination, compare the gross combination weight and each axle load against the limits, not just the total.
- Fuel used = distance ÷ km per litre. Fuel cost = litres × price per litre. Add a reserve, commonly 10 per cent, for idling, detours and traffic.
- Trip time = distance ÷ average speed + mandatory stops + loading and unloading.
- Convert before calculating: 1 tonne = 1,000 kg; 1 km = 1,000 m; speed in km/h ÷ 3.6 = m/s.
- Use technology to check, not to replace, the calculation: a GPS route estimate still needs your fuel and load figures.
Worked example
A 340 km round trip, truck average 2.8 km/L, diesel at ₱57.50/L. Reasoning: litres = 340 ÷ 2.8 = 121.4 L; cost = 121.4 × 57.50 = ₱6,981; add 10 per cent reserve = 133.6 L, about ₱7,682. If the quoted rate is ₱25,000 for the trip, fuel is 31 per cent of revenue before driver, toll and maintenance - so a detour of 40 km costs about ₱821, not 'nothing'.
Traps
- Using GVW as payload, which overstates capacity by the tare weight.
- Dividing price by litres instead of litres by distance.
- Rounding 121.4 down to 100 and under-fueling.
- Forgetting the return leg or reefer/idle fuel.
- Trusting a GPS ETA that ignores truck restrictions and weigh stations.