Case Study: Cherokee Freight Lines Optimizes Fleet Operations

Customer Profile

Patrick Finch – Fleet Manager, Cherokee Freight Lines
Cherokee Freight Lines is a leading trucking company specializing in freight transportation across the U.S. Managing a large and diverse fleet, they sought a maintenance solution that could improve efficiency, reduce paperwork, and integrate seamlessly with their existing load processing software..

Challenge: Outdated Systems and Inefficient Processes

Cherokee Freight Lines had been using an older maintenance system. Over time, it became clear that their outdated software was no longer keeping pace with their needs. After considering multiple options, they realized they needed a more modern, customer-focused solution that could integrate with McLeod’s LoadMaster for load processing.

Solution: Recommended by Peers, Designed for Progress, Charoke Implemented Squarerigger

After extensive research and consulting with Panella Trucking, a longtime SQ.7 (now SQCore) user, Cherokee Freight Lines chose Squarerigger’s fleet maintenance software. The team was particularly impressed with its user-friendly interface, reporting capabilities, and the strong customer support.

Results: Improved Inventory Management and Operational Efficiency

Streamlined Maintenance and Inventory Management

Squarerigger helped eliminate unnecessary paperwork and manual tracking.
“Less time walking to the parts room, less time writing things down, and the elimination of a lot of paper.”
The min/max inventory feature ensures they stock only what’s needed, optimizing costs.

Enhanced Data Accuracy and Reporting

Cherokee Freight Lines spent significant time refining their equipment master data for a seamless transition.
“The difference in data quality between SQ.7 (now SQCore) and our old system is like night and day.”
Mechanics can now run reports each morning to track previous work and analyze trends.

Greater Visibility into Fleet Costs

With robust reporting, Cherokee can accurately determine the true cost of doing business for each piece of equipment.
“We want to have a true cost breakdown of every unit we operate, and now we can achieve that.”

Patrick’s Advice for Fleets Choosing a Maintenance System

Do the Research: “Make sure you put the right amount of time into it. For us, it was 4-5 months of research.”
Test in Real-World Conditions: “Go see someone using the system you’re considering. Spend the day with them, talk to users, and see what it’s done for them.”
Ensure the Software Fits Your Business Needs: “If you have unique processes, make sure the system can accommodate them.”

"My people couldn’t have been more impressed. It’s all the things my people have wanted and been waiting for all these years. "

A Smooth Transition to a More Efficient Future

Cherokee Freight Lines has found SQCore to be intuitive and easy to navigate, with strong support when needed.

With greater efficiency, improved data accuracy, and enhanced cost visibility, Cherokee Freight Lines is now positioned for long-term success in fleet management.

About Patrick Finch

Patrick Finch has extensive experience in fleet management and plays a key role in optimizing operations at Cherokee Freight Lines. His commitment to efficiency and data-driven decision-making has helped the company modernize its maintenance practices and reduce operational costs.

“...the most important thing was the confidence we felt in how we would be treated as customers in the long run.”

This case study highlights how Cherokee Freight Lines transformed its fleet operations with Squarerigger, gaining valuable insights, reducing manual processes, and ensuring their fleet runs at peak performance.

Case Study: Cherokee Freight Lines