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Trailer-Tracking Technology On The Rise
Editor�s Note: Roni Taylor, executive vice president of SkyBitz Inc., recently took time to answer questions from Tank Transport Trader regarding the use of high-tech equipment in logistics management. Here is their interview with her:

What have been some of the obstacles for fleets purchasing trailer-tracking technology?
In the past, fleets have been slow to adopt trailer-tracking technology due to four primary challenges: First, tracking providers did not offer solutions that provided more than 30 to 60 days of battery life while the trailer was un-tethered from the tractor. With 10 percent of a fleet�s trailers sitting un-tethered for at least 30 days, that was a problem. Second, high fuel prices and hours of service regulations impeded the availability of funds to implement the technology. Third, trailer tracking technology was unproven: Questions about the area of coverage, satellite versus cellular, topped the list of concerns for fleet managers. Fourth, for many fleet managers the thought of pulling trailers off the road for a complex installation meant long periods of time with trailers out-of-service.

What is the current state of the trailer-tracking technology market?
Today the market for trailer-tracking technology is on the rise. Fleet owners now view this technology as a means to stay competitive. Trailer-tracking providers now are offering products and services that counter the concerns of the past. Today�s trailer-tracking solutions give fleet managers a complete view of trailers� locations throughout the transport cycle, and while sitting idle. Fleets that use trailer-tracking technology will continue to realize improved trailer utilization, increased detention billing, recovery of stolen trailers and cargo, lower operating costs, better driver management, and improved customer service overall.

What engineering challenges do providers of trailer-tracking technology face today?
In order to satisfy the shifting demands of customers, trailer-tracking providers have become more sophisticated. Trucking companies are now looking for trailer-tracking systems that offer different options in service plans and extended battery life to match the eight-to-10 year life-span of a trailer. With a Global Locating System technology, trailers can be tracked by satellite for years on the same replaceable battery pack. Options in service plans are also important to fleets. The ability to choose between a plan with daily scheduled reports and a plan with arrival and departure reports gives fleet managers the flexibility to run the fleet most effectively.

What requirements should fleet owners consider when deciding on a trailer tracking technology?
Before deciding on a trailer-tracking solution, fleet managers should compare providers and consider coverage area, battery life, reporting methods, and installation costs. If loads are hauled throughout the US, Canada or Mexico, fleet managers should look for a solution that provides full coverage throughout North America. A tracking device that enables a convenient, on-the-road solution with years of battery life, coupled with a choice of reporting plans, is crucial to maintaining fleet performance. Also, an installation process of non-intrusive retrofitting will avoid fleet downtime, while maximizing fleet resources.

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