05/13/2004

Datatrac, a solutions provider for the expedited freight industry, has incorporated Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) technology into eTrac, its real-time logistics network.

The vendor provided the following details:

By adding AVL capabilities to its solutions suite, Datatrac's delivery service and freight forwarder customers will be able to proactively manage their pickup and delivery processes and optimize the use of driver and vehicle resources through advanced reporting and real-time GPS tracking features.

AVL capability was developed as a direct result of requests from Datatrac's customers and feedback from its Customer Advisory Council members. Several customers will be implementing this solution, including Edina Couriers in Minnesota, Priority Express in Pennsylvania, and Kelly Freight in Los Angeles.

Datatrac CEO Dennis Hogue said, "We are pleased to announce the availability of AVL-enabled logistics solutions for delivery service companies and freight forwarders. Datatrac has built its reputation on the real-world performance of its solutions and its ability to help companies throughout the expedited freight industry to improve logistics efficiency." Hogue added, "The integration of AVL capabilities within eTrac is yet another example of our unwavering commitment to providing the most reliable and technology-advanced solutions to our growing customer base."

With the added AVL functionality, Datatrac users will be able to significantly improve the efficiency of their dispatch operation and fleet management. Companies will be able to track drivers using detailed street level maps and easy-to-use GPS-enabled handsets that transmit data back to the host system Users will be able to record route history – including customer stops, travel time, and mileage, as well as provide on-the-spot navigation guidance to their drivers. Dispatchers will also be able to conduct searches by driver, vehicle, or address. In addition, companies will be able to generate enhanced reports that highlight possible safety violations like speeding and determine out-of-route stops, loitering, and in-route delays.

Steve Aninye, Datatrac's chief technology officer, said, "AVL is a proven technology that enables companies to increase driver productivity and improve the overall management of their mobile assets. Datatrac's adoption of AVL has been designed specifically to equip delivery service companies and freight forwarders with the tools and information necessary to cost-effectively maximize logistics efficiency in an increasingly competitive marketplace."