Some of the 100 allelectric EVI delivery vans UPS is deploying in California Big Brown plans to begin using package beacons in 301 US locations this year Photo courtesy of the California Clean Energy

UPS to deploy electronic beacons to spot misloads

April 23, 2017
Big Brown says it expects the new technology will help cut “misloads” by 70%.

United Parcel Service  (UPS) is going to start installing electronic “beacons” in delivery vans as a way to alert employees if a box has accidently been placed in the wrong vehicle.

The company said its new Preload Smart Scan program uses Bluetooth-enabled beacons that communicate with scanning devices worn by package loaders.

The scanners read the labels and are programmed to know where a package belongs in a specific vehicle, while the beacons send signals that are unique to certain vehicles and their position within the vehicle, UPS added.

Big Brown believes its Preload Smart Scan system will lead to a 70% reduction in misloads.

“This is an important step toward improving accuracy in our operation,” John Dodero, vice president of industrial engineering, said in a statement. “It raises the level of service we provide to our customers. It also makes us more efficient and generates valuable cost savings.”

Beacons will be in 301 U.S. locations this year, reaching a total of 28% of U.S. facilities and 47% of its domestic package cars. UPS also plans to expand the initiative to facilities internationally.

About the Author

Fleet Owner Staff

Our Editorial Team

Kevin Jones, Editorial Director, Commercial Vehicle Group

Cristina Commendatore, Executive Editor

Scott Achelpohl, Managing Editor 

Josh Fisher, Senior Editor

Catharine Conway, Digital Editor

Eric Van Egeren, Art Director

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Uniting for Bold Solutions to Tackle Transportation’s Biggest Challenges

Over 300 leaders in transportation, logistics, and distribution gathered at Ignite 2024. From new products to innovative solutions, Ignite highlighted the importance of strong...

Seasonal Strategies for Maintaining a Safe & Efficient Fleet Year-Round

Prepare your fleet for every season! From winterizing vehicles to summer heat safety, our eBook covers essential strategies for year-round fleet safety. Download now to reduce...

Streamline Compliance, Ensure Safety and Maximize Driver's Time

Truck weight isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when considering operational efficiency, hours-of-service regulations, and safety ratings, but it can affect all three.

Improve Safety and Reduce Risk with Data from Route Scores

Route Scores help fleets navigate the risk factors they encounter in the lanes they travel, helping to keep costs down.