FourKites, 3GTMS partner on freight tracking tech

The two companies say they’re incorporating FourKites’ freight visibility platform with 3GTMS’ transportation management software into a single, unified offering.    Two logistics software companies from different parts of the U.S. say they’re joining forces on a project that combines the technology of each into a real-time tracking platform for third-party logistics providers and shippers.
   FourKites, a Chicago-based company providing real-time tracking and visibility solutions across transportation modes and digital platforms, is partnering with 3GTMS, a Connecticut-based provider of Tier 1 transportation management software (TMS), the firms said in a joint statement Tuesday.
   To enhance processes for third-party logistics (3PLs) providers and shippers, the two companies are incorporating FourKites’ freight visibility platform with 3GTMS’ software into a unified offering.
   FourKites’ technology gathers shipment status information and location from more than 4 million GPS/ELD tracking devices and driver cell phones in real time. 3GTMS and FourKites say that together they can offer customers top-of-the-line shipment visibility capabilities via location and ETA information updated every 15 minutes, as well as predictive weather and traffic information to assess their impact on arrival times.
   “In the past, freight could be delayed by traffic, weather and other factors and would send updates that were hours late,” J.P. Wiggins, vice president of logistics at 3GTMS, said of the partnership. “Now, shippers expect to know where their freight is in real time. By partnering with FourKites, 3GTMS can provide its customers and their clients with immediate tracking capabilities, making it easier to track and manage freight shipping exceptions, if not prevent them in the first place.”
   “What brings FourKites and 3GTMS together is a mutual understanding of why the supply chain needs automation,” added FourKites Senior Vice President of Global Business Development Craig Fiander. “Partnering allows us to provide unparalleled visibility and efficiency to 3PLs and shippers. Customers are equipped with the tools to predict, act and respond to any potential obstacles. Tracking valuable shipments nationwide is no longer a guessing game because customers are armed with complete visibility needed to avoid complications.”