Transportation Software and Services News and Views

04/14/2009

Jury Finds 3PL Company Liable in Crash

An Illinois jury verdict is a shocker to freight brokers and third-party logistics (3PL) companies, reports Logistics Management magazine. The case involves a truck accident in 2004 that killed two and injured one. The truck driver was an independent contractor for a trucking company that was in turn contracting for C. H. Robinson Worldwide, the largest U.S. trucking broker. But the jury rejected the argument of an arm's length relationship between the driver and the broker, found CHR "vicariously liable" and awarded $23.8 million to the plaintiffs. CHR says it will appeal. The concern in the 3PL business: If the verdict sets a precedent, insurance premiums could rise. --Jeff B. Copeland, Content Product Manager

03/16/2009

Congress to Consider 'Card Check' Legislation

The Employee Free Choice Act, which would make it easier for employees to join unions, has been introduced in both houses of Congress. The bill would amend the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, allowing workers to form a union if a majority of employees of them sign a card expressing their desire to do so, and would prohibit employers from requiring a secret ballot election. Also included in the measure, known as "Card Check," are increases to penalties faced by employers who engage in activities deemed to be anti-union. Similar legislation has been proposed in the past, but failed. The current Senate is expected to move forward on the legislation after the Easter recess in April. -- Jason Agard, Sr. Associate Editor

03/16/2009

Using the Web to Fix Your Fan Belt Before It Breaks

A new, web-based tool has become available to help motor carriers proactively manage their fleet maintenance need. Maintenance Manager® Online, from J. J. Keller & Associates, provides maintenance alerts and scheduling information, as well as integrated parts and inventory details. Users can access the system through any web browser, and generate reports based on fuel use, repair status, customized mileage and calendar milestones, and availability of parts. The service can function as a stand-alone application or integrate with the company's in-cab driver and vehicle performance tracking system, J. J. Keller Mobile. Product support services are also available, including data migration help, on-site training, and set-up assistance. -- Jason Agard, Sr. Associate Editor

03/16/2009

Wondering Where your Shipment is Right Now? There's an App for That

If they weren't headed to the Apple Store already, the clients of transportation management and logistics services company D.W. Morgan now have one more reason to jump on the iPhone bandwagon. The shipping firm has released an application for the popular touch screen device that can provide real-time tracking reports and recipient signatures around the world. The app leverages the iPhone's built-in GPS capabilities to provide the exact location of deliveries overlaid on maps from Google Earth. And the reach of the device really is global. The iPhone's exclusive service provider, AT&T, commands the broadest amount of coverage area available internationally, with service in 85 countries around the world. -- Jason Agard, Sr. Associate Editor

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Transportation Software and Services News and Views

Jury Finds 3PL Company Liable in Crash

Congress to Consider 'Card Check' Legislation

Using the Web to Fix Your Fan Belt Before It Breaks

Wondering Where your Shipment is Right Now? There's an App for That

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