| |
SynchroNet diversifies into haulage market
by Chris Thorby
SynchroNet Marine Inc, the IT company specialising in empty container interchanges, has diversified into the haulage market, with the
launch of SynchroMet. This is a web-based application, developed to improve asset utilisation and operating efficiency for transport
service providers in the Metropolitan Bay area (around San Francisco and Oakland).
According to the company, SynchroMet is the first phase of a comprehensive development programme. It provides an equivalent service
for hauliers to the marine container interchange services already offered by SynchroNet. SynchroMet also provides hauliers with a
quick and easy way to advertise and to search for additional "street turn" opportunities for cargo loads in and around Oakland.
SynchroNet claims that this new interchange service benefits the port and city of Oakland as well as the hauliers. It reduces gate
congestion at marine terminals and wait times for hauliers, lessens road congestion and pollution, improves the ratio of loaded to
empty miles, and provides an opportunity for hauliers to grow their business, and improve container utilisation.
The SynchroMet programme has been supported by the port of Oakland largely because it reduces road and gate congestion. Members of
the California Trucking Association have also contributed to its design and development.
Further development of the SynchroMet service will continue in phases, to benefit other parts of the Oakland port community. Phase
two will enable ocean carriers to interchange equipment at local inland points, for repositioning to international demand locations.
|
|
