TrucFlo™ Service Offering Launched as Answer for New Federally-mandated Intermodal Chassis Inspection Rules Effective December 2009
System is based on a paperless, cell phone design that gives drivers an easy way to communicate chassis status, with a corresponding automatic system for IEPs sending reports to the FMCSA
GLENDALE, Arizona – June 1, 2009 – TrucFlo™ is an industry-first service launched this week to the intermodal sector to help meet the new Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) chassis inspection requirements. The requirements affect Intermodal Equipment Providers (IEPs), terminal operators, motor carriers and drivers operating intermodal equipment.
The TrucFlo service is being developed and offered through a partnership between CONMAR and MetriTech, companies that have worked together for two years to deliver the PierPASS and PortCheck systems in Southern California.
“The TrucFlo solution is based on a simple and easy-to-implement design that allows truck drivers to report the status of an intermodal chassis using only a cell phone,” said joint venture partner Joe Palazzolo. “We wanted to develop a simple system that would not require the purchase of any equipment for users beyond what they already use daily, yet comprehensive enough to meet the new rules.”
How it Works
Under the new FMCSA regulations, drivers for Licensed Motor Carriers (LMC’s) must provide a written, signed report on the condition of the chassis they deliver to a intermodal terminal or depot, upon ingate of the chassis.
TrucFlo has developed a unique system, using ordinary cell phone technology, to meet the Federal requirements, electronically.
After the status is received, the intermodal chassis identification number and chassis status (damaged or not) will be communicated in real time by TrucFlo to the Intermodal Equipment Provider (IEP) and or their agent (intermodal terminal or depot) for processing. The TrucFlo system, captures all nine components of chassis conditions required by the FMCSA regulations, supported by a customer service group based in Glendale, Arizona.
“We are confident that our approach is designed so that each type of intermodal participant, whether you are a motor carrier, driver, chassis provider or terminal operator, will have an easily-integrated system that meets the new requirements,” noted Manfred Rietsch CEO, CONMAR. Feedback is currently being sought from all parties to ensure success.
Participation
Although FMCSA has stipulated compliance by December 17, 2009, the TrucFlo system registration and subscription sign-up will begin on July 1, 2009 at the www.trucflo.com website.
About CONMAR, LLC
CONMAR has offices in Glendale, Arizona and Irvine, California and offers unique software and system solutions to transportation and logistics problems and challenges. CONMAR’s sister company, VESystems, is a full-service company providing systems and solutions to the tolling industry.
About MetriTech, LLC
MetriTech, LLC, located in Long Beach, California provides a wide range of outsourcing services to the transportation industry. Most recently, MetriTech, which is a sister company to the transport consulting firm Palazzolo & Associates, Inc. was responsible for establishing the RFID testing center at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
For more information: www.trucflo.com