Qualcomm OmniTRACS

OmniTRACS was one of the first commercial telematics systems, letting dispatchers exchange messages with drivers and see where trucks were without waiting for phone check-ins from truck stops. Qualcomm, then a young San Diego company, used satellite links so the system worked across the country, and Schneider's fleet-wide order gave it scale. Live location data let carriers plan loads, cut empty miles and give shippers better arrival estimates. Electronic logging devices, in-cab tablets and live load tracking in transportation management systems follow the same idea, and shippers now expect location updates as a standard part of every truckload.

• Transportation Management SystemTMSSoftware for booking and tracking freight
• Full TruckloadFTLA shipment that fills a whole trailer
• Tracking NumberNumber that follows a package's scans

• GPS Opened to Civilian Use1983 · The US makes military GPS free for civilian use
• Rise of the 3PL Industry1980s · Deregulation lets carriers sell contract logistics
• Otto-Budweiser Autonomous Truck Delivery2016 · A self-driving truck hauls beer 120 miles

1. A pioneer turns 25 (FleetOwner) fleetowner.com
2. Qualcomm renews OmniTRACS contract with Schneider National (Qualcomm) qualcomm.com