New Hyster Tracker fleet management system to drive efficient port handling

Hyster® is encouraging port operations to improve efficiency by analysing usage data, restricting access and controlling daily checks on port handling equipment with the Hyster Tracker fleet management system.
“Many port and terminal operations are lacking suitable monitoring across their fleet, from container handlers, to forklifts in the port-side store,” says Thomas Toenders, Telematics Product Specialist for Hyster. “Quite often, they may not realise that they can be much more productive and save money by using data provided by an accurate fleet management system.”
Hyster Tracker has been developed to provide the right balance of information and simplicity to unlock the greatest results for nearly any type of truck. It can be factory fitted to almost any truck in the Hyster range or retrofitted to existing units. Linked to existing Wi-Fi resources or using GSM signal for data transmission, it is a modular system with three different feature bundles to suit various application requirements.
“There is a relatively low initial hardware cost and minimal disruption to get your port operation set up with the Hyster Tracker system,” says Thomas. “With low monthly fees, the return on investment is typically realised within the first year.”
All data collected by the Hyster Tracker system is stored on a secure online portal, HysterTracker.com. Accessible via PC, mobile or tablet 24/7, the portal allows clear, customisable reports, tables and graphs to be viewed and created.
Wireless Monitoring
“The first level of Hyster Tracker technology includes all of the essential tracking capabilities that help to effectively manage fleets of trucks and operators. This data can help to identify equipment that may be over-utilised, which may otherwise lead to increased maintenance and service costs. At the same time, it can also identify under-used equipment that could be more valuable in operation elsewhere,” Thomas says, explaining that users can view data by truck, fleet or location.
Features such as fault code monitoring and impact sensing mean that repairs and maintenance can be handled effectively, while GPS tracking, hour meters and truck use reporting can provide information to help improve productivity and processes, including yard layouts.
Wireless Access
Additional functionality on the Wireless Access plan includes operator access control. This solution works with RFID cards to ensure that specific equipment is used only by authorised or appropriately trained operators. It also helps to manage incidents and improve driver accountability by identifying the operator at the time of a recorded incident.
To drive down fuel or power costs, the idle shutdown function can also be set to power off a truck after a pre-determined amount of time if the equipment is tracked as idle or unattended. This improves cost effectiveness in port operations.
Wireless Verification
For the most complete telematics solution, the Wireless Verification plan also includes Operator Pre-shift Checklist Tracking which provides the quickest way to determine any issues with a truck.
“Put simply, this function forces the operator to complete a series of verifications in their own language on a control panel before the truck can be started. Managers can control when and how often this checklist must be completed by operators to help uphold maintenance and ensure that important checks are never missed,” adds Thomas.
In the event of any issues being identified via Pre-shift Checklist Tracking, they can be addressed immediately and resolved quickly, thereby reducing expenses and potential downtime.
Thomas adds, “Even in the most demanding port applications, the Hyster Tracker fleet management system empowers managers to enhance productivity, control costs and optimise their fleet using accurate business intelligence.”
The Hyster Tracker is highly effective when used with Hyster warehouse trucks, lift trucks or container handlers, but it can also be used to support any make of materials handling equipment including straddle carriers, so is an ideal solution for operations with a mixed fleet.