UB tracks loads on trailers

United Biscuits is considering opening its new online trailer tracking service to hauliers. "We have an open mind [on the issue]," distribution and contracts manager Bill Hooton tells MT. UB is gaining efficiency from the system and would expect hauliers to benefit also, he says. The Masternaut system is being fitted to 175 trailers, 22 tractor units and three vans, in a process that started in January and will be completed shortly. UB has had to invest in managing the system.

The system is expected to make net savings of 100,000 a year, excluding "better customer service and improved contractor productivity".
Manufacturing locations are empowered to use the service and the information generated by the trailer tracking systems - which have their own power source - is providing precise information about issues that arise with customers.

The information is also being used to debrief drivers. UB's drivers also have their own ID keys, giving automatic verification of drivers' work.
UB national distribution controller Rob Wright is quoted as saying: "Masternaut gives us complete visibility of the entire in-progress transport operation...This makes it much easier to plan dynamically, adjusting routes and schedules as required."