We maintain a data center using several different computing platforms ranging from personal computers to an IBM mainframe system. We have developed the majority of our software applications internally, including payroll, billing, dispatch, accounting and maintenance programs. In order to enhance the service we provide our customers, after an extensive review, we determined that our mainframe software applications need to be replaced. Accordingly, over the next three years we will replace those applications with off-the-shelf, server-based products. Our computer systems are monitored 24 hours a day by experienced information services professionals.
The technology we use in our business enhances the efficiency of all aspects of our operations and enables us to consistently deliver superior service to our customers. This technology includes satellite-based equipment tracking and driver communication system, which allows us to closely monitor the location of all our tractors and to communicate with our drivers in real time. This enables us to efficiently dispatch drivers in response to customers’ requests, to provide real-time information to our customers about the status of their shipments and to provide documentation supporting our assessorial charges, which are charges to customers for things such as loading, unloading or delays. We have also implemented load optimization software, which is designed to match available equipment with shipments in a way that best satisfies a number of criteria including empty miles, the driver’s available hours of service and home-time needs. This licensed software assists us in planning for transfers of loaded trailers between our tractors, allowing us to further enhance efficient allocation of our equipment, improve customer service and take full advantage of our drivers’ available hours of service. |
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