Frequently Asked Questions
What makes you different?
With our deep ties to the global logistics industry, we are uniquely positioned to provide a full service offering utilizing best in class tracking hardware, a team of logistics and cargo security experts monitoring our client's shipments, and our network of local offices who support the execution of important training and handling functions. These local activities are necessary for successful implementation and include driver departure interviews in local language, the management and placement of the cargo tracking devices, and the conducting of physical integrity checks of the cargo at major touch points.
Any alerts or notifications received by our clients come from highly trained logistics security analysts whose experience includes shipping secured cargo through highly vulnerable and complex environments. Our logistics security analysts come from a mix of backgrounds including cargo claims, military, law enforcement and branch operations. Their judgement creates value for our client by delivering vetted and educated analysis of events and notifications coming from cargo sensors
What technology do you use?
We integrate market leading cargo sensors on behalf of our customers using our proprietary “Signal Operating System” (SOS) which uses advanced logistics algorithms to detect route deviation, high-risk zones, low cellular coverage areas, intrusions, and other important issues. Sensors send data in real-time to the platform via the cellular or satellite networks. The software is used directly by our customers to run their own Command Centers using integrated feeds such as weather, traffic, social media and cargo theft incidents to monitor supply chain disruption. We support systems integration with logistics providers through well documented inbound APIs that allow for the creation of shipment records in the application and outbound push APIs that provide update of location and sensor reading data.
Where are your services available?
We are compliance experts in the market conditions and use technology to execute global programs at a scale much larger than any technology-only company can today.
Before starting our service, we evaluate the regulatory environment to ensure compliant use of this technology including:
- Customs Regulations: For cross-border moves, certain customs formalities exist which are related to the placement of tracking devices. There are also certain cellular network restrictions in some countries.
- Airline Approvals: Each airline must preapprove the placement of tracking devices on their flights. To date, only certain airlines have approved the use of cargo tracking devices during flight.
I just want to know where my stuff is. Will this be too hard to use?
We promise that it’s easy! Our team has spent years in warehouses working with cargo handlers on the simplest way to use sensors in the logistics industry. Our customer onboarding process is designed to make sensor-based logistics quick and painless to start up.
How do you assess and inform me of risk in my supply chain?
Our clients receive detailed route risk assessments that includes strategies to mitigate threats and vulnerabilities. The assessment includes, but is not limited to, crime statistics, route assessment, physical and procedural security recommendations, and pre-coordination with relevant law enforcement authorities. Our clients then have a team actively monitoring the cargo to ensure all routes are properly adhered to. The team is also prepared to take action if an incident is detected. If escalation protocols dictate, we have the ability to contact law enforcement utilizing our network of global offices or third-party recovery specialists in certain markets. Information gathered prior to cargo moving, such as driver name and phone number, and equipment description and markings, combined with the real time location of the cargo puts our client in the best possible position to recover cargo.
What kind of tracking devices do you use?
Our clients benefit from advanced cargo sensors utilizing a multi-layered approach to location including global positioning systems (GPS), cell tower triangulation, and nearby Wi-Fi signals. This sophisticated hardware also includes the ability to report light, variance in temperature, motion, tilt, and shock measurements. Cargo Signal does not manufacture hardware, but we are constantly testing new sensors available on the market so that we can bring our customers any best-in-class technology that passes our stringent real-world tests. Full technical specifications are available once the appropriate hardware selection is made.