Triplock Tracking Technology
Using the latest wireless telematics technology, the Overseas Shippers Association (OSA) is taking part in trials to track containers using a device called TripLock. TripLock is supplied by Aeromark, a UK based telematics company, and has the ability to position a container anywhere within the mobile phone network and send notification to the shipper if anyone tampers with the container door.
TripLock provides security of doors and visibility of unaccompanied goods in transit, and if successful it will be a significant development in the continuing fight for better security of containerised traffic and smoother customs procedures.
A door sensor is built into the unit that sends an immediate alert if the door is opened in transit. The device is mounted inside the container door and has a small aerial on the outside to which it continually receives its GPS position and transmits a GSM communication to show its location. This allows remedial action to be taken at destination if necessary, however more importantly it has the ability to prove that a container was not opened during a voyage. This may become an important part of a company’s accreditation by helping achieve priority at ports, avoiding unnecessary delays and removing the risk of damaging inspections.
The trial is being conducted between Sterling Corporate Relocation in the UK and the MIGroup in New York.
TripLock is supplied in a ruggedised transit case which can be put inside a container before sealing. This can be used to courier the unit back to its owner after use or can be re-used on a return container. It is powered by a re-chargeable battery with an operating life of approximately 30 days, however developers are currently working to extend battery life to accommodate the longest sea voyages.
Users of the TripLock system can set up the unit for each journey over the internet using secure login codes so no bespoke software is required.
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