Hercules Launches Driver Handheld Scanners

Hercules Forwarding Inc. has deployed advanced driver handheld scanning technology to allow for real time tracing of LTL truck shipments. The new handheld scanners have deployed in Hercules West Coast US terminals with a rollout to other terminals throughout 2008.

Hercules drivers are now armed with the Intermec CN3 Mobile Computer. Drivers place a bar-coded PRO sticker on the bill of lading and scan at time of pickup and delivery. The shipment status will be wirelessly updated from the drivers\' handheld to Hercules network, providing customers an instant shipment status. Drivers also receive their pickups directly on the handheld from dispatch. Similar technology is currently used by the large courier companies in North America.

\"This new technology streamlines our operation, and improves communications between our drivers, dispatch and our customers. This same information is sent to our website within minutes, and provides customers real time visibility on pickup and delivery times.\" says company Vice President Martin Burnham Jr.