Trimble continues its move into the world of trucking information technology, announcing it has acquired privately-held ALK Technologies Inc. of Princeton, N.J., which provides routing, mapping, mileage and navigation technologies.


Last year, Trimble bought trucking software provider TMW Systems, and in 2011, purchased PeopleNet, a provider of integrated onboard computing and mobile communications systems for fleets.

ALK Technologies offers proprietary routing and international map-based solutions for transportation, logistics and mobile workforces. The addition of ALK is expected to extend and complement Trimble's Transportation and Logistics product portfolio, including TMW Systems' transportation management solutions, PeopleNet's integrated onboard computing and mobile communications systems and GEOTrac's fleet management and worker safety solutions for the oil and gas industry. Financial terms were not disclosed.

ALK software products include CoPilot Live, which offers onboard GPS navigation for professional drivers; and PC*Miler, a truck-specific mileage solution. ALK offers a consistent data platform for operational planning activities, such as mileage and routing and in-cab navigation applications used by fleet drivers. ALK products are sold worldwide and feature extensive international map data.

Approximately 64% of North American for-hire motor carriers use ALK solutions, according to the company including 98 of the top 100 largest for-hire carriers, 47 of the top 50 logistics companies and 77 of the top 100 private fleets.

"The addition of ALK Technologies expands the portfolio and scope of innovative solutions we can offer transportation providers, logistics companies and shippers," said David Wangler, president of TMW Systems. "The combination of ALK's routing, mapping, mileage and navigation capabilities with our enterprise transportation management software and the mobile communications solutions under the Trimble Transportation and Logistics umbrella supports our comprehensive and industry-focused technology approach."

"This is a significant milestone in ALK's long history in transportation," said Barry Glick, president of ALK Technologies, who will continue to lead the organization. "We are excited to join our well-known and respected partner TMW Systems under the global umbrella of Trimble. These organizations share our passion and vision for how location information can transform business and productivity."

ALK Technologies' business will be reported as part of Trimble's Mobile Solutions segment.