Covenant Transport has implemented ALK Technologies’ Multi Version Switch (MVS), software that supports multiple versions of PC*Miler on one server or on several different servers simultaneously. The carrier also is integrating ALK|FleetSuite Tolls into its own operations software.
Covenant Transport, based in Chattanooga, Tenn., is one of the largest truckload carriers in North America with 5,944 drivers. ALK, based in Princeton, N.J., is a developer of industry-standard routing, mileage and mapping software, including its flagship product, PC*Miler, business-essential ALK software designed to provide accurate truck-specific routing.
PC*Miler is available to motor carriers, shippers and logistics companies to plan loads and calculate freight charges. A new version of PC*Miler need not replace previous versions: The MVS tool is designed to enable PC*Miler users to work with multiple PC*Miler versions on the same server to access previous versions as long as they are needed to fulfill customer contracts.
ALK|FleetSuite Tolls is designed to provide pinpoint toll accuracy for rate quotes, billing and driver settlement. ALK says its Tolls solution features a constantly updated database providing accurate toll information from 110 toll and government entities in 30 states, and also includes 16 toll discount programs such as EZ Tag, E-ZPass, Cruise Card and SunPass. Users also can select the criteria necessary for an accurate toll amount – the number of axles on the unit, for example – and in some cases, the time of day, according to ALK.
A PC*Miler customer for more than five years, Covenant runs PC*Miler|Streets on the AS/400 and Windows platforms throughout its enterprise, providing North American street-level routing, mileage and mapping. Various PC*Miler Connectivity products are used to interface with Covenant’s custom transportation management system, IDSC fuel and yield optimization software, and mobile communications system.
“We listen to our customers, and different customers have different needs,” says Sam Harlin, vice president of information services and chief information officer for Covenant. “ALK’s Multi Version Switch enables us to work seamlessly with whatever version of PC*Miler our customer requires. ALK|FleetSuite Tolls allows us to accurately prepare bids and bill our customers, directly improving our billing system and load profitability.”
