Punch Telematix

Kerkemeier switches to Punch within a single weekend

28 October 2009 by LS

• 30 trucks fitted with the CarCube
• Hardware and software implementation within a single weekend
• Dynamic geofencing for tracking individual trucks

The multi-functional on-board computer replaces the outmoded non-integrated solution: Transport company Friedrich Kerkemeier GmbH & Co. KG were looking for a telematics system that provides a multitude of extra functions in addition to order management. As a result, this new solution has to be able to handle journey and vehicle data in order to decrease fuel consumption. The communication of working hours will permit the exact calculation of driving and resting times. The enterprise, which specialises in steel transportation, found the answer at Punch Telematix. Within a single weekend Kerkemeier fitted 30 trucks with the on-board computer CarCube, so that the drivers and dispatchers could continue their work seamlessly.

‘We had already operated a telematics system for many years. But by now this system no longer satisfied our demands, nor those of our customers', says Holger Kost. The logistics manager of the transport company had therefore scoured the market since the end of the previous year, looking for a suitable alternative. Using a considerable catalogue of requirements, solutions from various suppliers were compared and evaluated with a points system. Subsequently three systems underwent a practical trial. 'Punch Telematix had fulfilled most of our requirements with their telematics solution, and what is more they were able to provide a particularly good range of services', Kost explains the decision in favour of the CarCube.

Besides the transfer of journey and vehicle data, as well as the communication of working hours, Kerkemeier attached great importance to the ‘dynamic geofencing' option. Using this it is possible to do an order-related trace on when a truck was at a loading or unloading point, without the driver having to be involved. Punch Telematix was the only supplier, with whom this could be deployed. ‘With time-critical deliveries in particular, I can now be sure that they have actually reached their destination', says Kost.

In order to be able to use the new functions as quickly as possible, Kerkemeier started fitting the appliances immediately after deciding in favour of the CarCube. After just three days all 30 trucks had an on-board computer with complete connectivity. ‘We wanted to avoid disrupting our normal business. Thanks to good preparation and the flexibility of all those concerned we succeeded', Kost sums up.