Marine terminal operators have introduced a new wireless truck identification system that will increase the safety and efficiency of containerized cargo handling at ports throughout the West Coast.

The introduction of electronic identification systems for all trucks picking up and dropping off containerized cargo on the West Coast is a major step forward in making port operations more secure and reducing the impacts on surrounding communities.
"The use of radio frequency and other identification technology will generate notable benefits for the public, local authorities, truckers and terminal operators," said Jon Hemingway, president and CEO of SSA Marine, which operates marine terminals at West Coast ports and is a participant in this program. "This allows us a chance to play a constructive role on finding solutions to truck congestion and a wide variety of pending issues such as night gate hours."
Hemingway said the technology is currently used at highly efficient ports throughout the world as well as a wide array of industries, such as warehousing, retail distribution and automated bridge toll payment systems such as California's FasTrak system.
Doug Tilden, president and CEO of Oakland-based Marine Terminals Corp. (MTC), said, "Our company and other West Coast terminal operators believe this technology can be exceptionally effective when applied to the supply chain and, in particular, the management of trucks calling at marine terminals."
Tilden said by immediately transmitting critical information as soon as trucks pull up to marine terminals, the wireless technology is expected to dramatically reduce the time required for trucks to pick up and drop off cargo at marine terminals. This in turn will reduce emissions created by idling trucks.
Marine terminal operators are in the process of soliciting proposals from leading technology developers and providers to provide a comprehensive electronic identification system for all trucks that operate on the West Coast. Terminal operators have agreed to purchase and pay for installation of any equipment required on trucks. An estimated 30,000 trucks operating on the West Coast are expected to be fitted with the new devices.
The terminal operators anticipate having all necessary equipment installed on trucks and in terminals by March of 2004.