I have Streets and Trips running at all times with my current location set as the starting point. When an offer comes in I plug in the pu/del locations and before the offer is completed know how far it really is and whether I like that routing or not. Usually the mileages are within a single digit of matching. I did go around once with a dispatcher when the difference was about 15%. I said something like "So they are meeting me at the bridge at exit number xxx?" The dispatcher asked what I meant and I said "They are paying me for X miles and that's how far it gets them. I can shove it out the back onto the shoulder for them to pick it up if that's how far they want it transported.". After waiting on hold a few minutes I was told I was being paid for about 44 miles more which put it enough closer to accurate to run.
As to which route to choose, I weigh the miles against the better mpg of steady 63mph on the highway, potentially better road surface, less stress and strain on both the van and myself and then choose which route makes more sense on that particular run. I'm not going to donate a lot of miles on every run, but now and then will choose to and let it slide.
As to which route to choose, I weigh the miles against the better mpg of steady 63mph on the highway, potentially better road surface, less stress and strain on both the van and myself and then choose which route makes more sense on that particular run. I'm not going to donate a lot of miles on every run, but now and then will choose to and let it slide.
