Sept/Oct 2003

Solar power is emerging as a potential solution to the perennial problem of tracking trailers and their loads independently of tractor units. Conventional trailer tracking is done via the tractor unit, but while this works well in own-account fleets, it presents problems to companies who use subcontractors and lease trailers at peak periods. How do you track the goods if the subcontractor's vehicle or trailer is not equipped with GPS or GSM communications?

Multinational logistics company Tibbett & Britten has trialled both Astrotraq and Pinpoint solar-powered Web-based trailer-tracking services. The company wanted a tracking system that would enable it to track customers' goods across national and international boundaries.

It uses subcontractors, so any tracking system had to be trailer- rather than tractor-based to provide a complete picture. It also leases or subcontracts trailers in periods of peak demand, so wanted a device that could be fitted temporarily to such trailers.

Its trailers have been fitted with solar-powered self-contained roof-mounted GPS/GSM telematics units. The solar batteries are recharged by natural daylight. The Triteq GPS/GSM unit used by Astrotraq is a 370mm diameter, 70mm high "dome", while Pinpoint uses a rectangular housing. Both are bonded to the roof. Pinpoint says fitting can be carried out whilst the trailer is being loaded. "Installation costs are minimal as there is no external wiring and no modifications are required to the trailer, tractor unit or electrical systems," says commercial director Michael Perkins.

 

Craig Swallow, commercial director for Triteq, says tracking systems can cost as little as £400 per annum, including a 12-month communications contract.

Tibbett will now be encouraging all its suppliers to use the technology on all the trailers used on its operations.