Maddox Releases TM4Win 6.0, Adds Intermodal Functions

Maddocks Systems has released version 6.0 of its TruckMate for Windows (TM4Win) software, building on the program’s core dispatching and fleet management functions to target more diverse trucking operations. The release gains several new features, including improved support for web-based customer service and EDI. But there are also robust new functions tailored for intermodal operations.

“We see the transportation industry being defined by two distinct groups of companies: diversified carriers and specialized fleets,” says Bob Maddocks, president of the Langley, B.C., software firm. “Diversified carriers want the flexibility of offering any range of transportation services, while specialized carriers need a high level of functionality for one type of hauling.” He says the new release is a fit for both.

The focus on intermodal arose simply because customers asked for it, says marketing manager Neal Cranna. TM4Win 6.0 lets you manage key details about container movements, tagging them for import or export, domestic inbound or outbound, or whether a container is empty or being repositioned. You can accurately calculate detention per diem and demurrage charges and track container details–sizes, restrictions, and serial numbers. You can easily assign intermodal-specific accessorial charges, including lift charges, inspection fees, steam cleaning charges, and container tarp fees. The intermodal functions are bundled with the new release.

“For a while now we’ve seen a move toward companies that want to offer as many different types of services as possible–truckload shipments, some LTL, some freight brokerage, some intermodal,” says Cranna.

He says intermodal is one of those areas where customers believe they’ll have an edge if they can either bleed out inefficiencies that seem inherent in container hauling, or take advantage of every possible accessorial charge.

“Intermodal is a segment that trucking companies want to offer, but find much more difficult to manage than a traditional TL operation,” Cranna says. “There are so many variables you need to be aware of, and there’s really nothing on the market to help you manage those. This release fills the void.”