LTL carrier Southeast Freight Lines is adding multi-mode wireless communications to the handheld computers and onboard data collection systems already being used by the fleet's 2,000 pick-up and delivery trucks. The new integrated communications is being provided by GeoLogic Solutions using its MobileMax multi-mode satellite and land-based wireless service.

In addition to dispatch, GPS-based location reports and two-way messaging, Southeast is using its hybrid system to capture scanned barcodes for package tracking and cross-dock applications, according to the fleet. Development and testing took over a year.

The multi-mode service provides least-cost-routing wireless service, automatically switching between land-based and satellite networks to ensure complete coverage.