U.S. DOT Releases New Tool to Promote Efficient Freight Movement

The Electronic Freight Management software, along with a blueprint, or architecture, for operation, is free and easy to operate.

As part of its mission to advance the use of technology to solve transportation problems, the Research and Innovative Technology Administration's Intelligent Transportation System's Joint Program Office, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration's Freight Office, has developed new open software that helps industry deliver products to market more efficiently, while reducing congestion and harmful emissions on the nation's roadways. The Electronic Freight Management software, along with a blueprint, or architecture, for operation, is free and easy to operate. Scalable from small to large businesses, the software utilizes the internet and is designed to maximize cargo visibility and coordinate freight shipments, using real-time information and a company’s existing systems.

Greater cargo visibility can lead to improved asset utilization, fewer delays in moving products from the assembly line to the shelf, greater coordination among supply chain partners, and ultimately cost savings for the company and its customers. A recent case study with a Kansas City-based importer of household gift and decorative items proved that implementing this software decreased costs and reduced customer backorders.

The prototype software can be downloaded from the project website at www.efm.us.com.

Contact Kim Riddle at DOT: (202) 366-5128.