The Maptuit Corp. of Burlington, MA, and Golden, CO-based American Millennium Corp. (AMCi) have introduced a new Internet-based tracking system designed in part to increase security around hazardous-materials shipment by truck.

The jointly developed system directs, tracks, maps and monitors the real-time movement of assets, using Maptuit's mapping, directions and "geo-fencing" technology, which alerts dispatchers if a truck has left or entered a pre-designated area. Requests to proactively track the whereabouts of gasoline trucks, hazardous chemical trucks and other assets have been overwhelming since the September 11 terrorist attacks, Maptuit said.

The use of its mapping software combined with AMCi's satellite alarm system notifies dispatchers when vehicles are off their designated route. In particular, the combined product allows the driver and/or dispatcher to pick from a set of recommended routes, and set a "geo-fence" around them, the companies said. If a truck unexpectedly exits this pre- determined area, the company and, if appropriate, local, state, and national authorities can be alerted.