Watsontown Trucking selects Rand McNally fleet management system

Skokie-based Rand McNally Corp. said Watsontown Trucking Company has selected its TNDT 760 EOBR devices for a fleetwide deployment, replacing an older existing system.

WTC, based in Milton, Penn, is a family owned and operated business with a fleet of more than 240 trucks and 700 trailers.

After an extensive evaluation of mobile communication providers and a short testing period, WTC chose the TNDT 760 for its ease of installation, proven stability in field, and functionality that was easy for drivers to understand and use.

WTC has had mobile communications devices in its vehicles since 2007, and uses the information provided from the cab to help streamline operations. Data from the devices is used to manage customer delivery times, maintain trucks, assist dispatch, and save on fuel through monitoring speed, idling, and hard braking. Data from WTC trucks also is linked to McLeod’s Loadmaster software via Rand McNally’s Connect software.

“As experienced EOBR users, we already understood the benefits to the business. We looked at six or seven vendors seeking a cost-efficient initial investment and the features that fit our operations,” said Gerald Woolcock, Director of Safety, Watsontown Trucking Company. “From the beginning, the team at Rand McNally has been exceptional, providing top-notch customer service, a committed account team, and frequent, meaningful software updates. They truly stand behind their product, and ensure it delivers on our company’s objectives.”

The Rand McNally TNDT 760 seamlessly integrates with a truck’s onboard computer and sends and receives information via both Wi-Fi and cellular modes. The TNDT 760 is designed to be set up in less than 30 minutes and does not require the installation of a separate “black box” monitoring unit like traditional mobile communication systems.

Another feature at WTC has been the navigation, which provides point-to-point truck-specific directions, travel center stops with amenities, weigh stations, warnings on the road ahead, road construction updates, estimated time of arrival and more.

Watsontown Trucking also is beginning to utilize the automated Hours of Service tracking; so far, drivers have been providing positive feedback. The company intends to be well-positioned for the EOBR mandate, recently enacted as part of “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act.”