A BUSINESS and IT consultant has completed the development of a software system that uses GPS and mapping technology to track the whereabouts and status of a company’s fleet of lorries.

The cargo section of each of Reed Boardall’s refrigerated lorries or trailers is fitted with a trailer tracking unit (TTU), created by Waterstons, of Durham, which sends data to a central database using GPRS.

Microsoft MapPoint is used to pinpoint the location of each vehicle along with data that shows the temperature inside the trailer and the status of other devices on the trailer.

This information is then plotted on an easy-to-read graph.

Marcus Boardall, group finance director for Reed Boardall, said: “This software system will help us ensure that we provide an unparalleled service to our customers and also prove the level of service we provide.

“The screen is refreshed every minute and each marker on the map is linked to a wealth of data about the vehicle.

“It not only enables our operators to respond quickly to any delays as they happen, but also allows them to monitor so many other aspects of every journey.”

“This system is unique in my experience and differs in many fundamental ways from the many tracking systems available off-theshelf.

“Waterstons has created a system for us which will be of immeasurable benefit in the very competitive market in which we operate.

“They will be helping us to build on this foundation with further developments over the next year or two using innovations unlike any that have been seen before in our industry.”