Telematics company Masternaut and national courier Ultimate Express have created a ground-breaking system that allows companies to track their own consignments across the UK.  The minute by minute movements of consignments on route can be viewed by Ultimate Express customers on computerised road maps on the web.

The new system uses the latest satellite tracking technology and live mobile communications in what is thought to be the most advanced system of its type in the UK and possibly in the world.

Ultimate Express customers book couriers via the company's website which begins a completely automated tracking process.  As well as the live tracking, e-mails alert customers to stages such as collection in 5 minutes, delivery in 5 minutes and delivery completed.

The couriers are equipped with PDA-type smartphones incorporating navigation software that guides them to delivery addresses.  The devices are then used to capture electronic signatures for proofs of delivery that are sent immediately by e-mail to the shipper. With Ultimate's vans equipped with satellite tracking, progress is tracked every 30 seconds. 

The Masternaut system is called M-Courier and is about to be launched nationwide.  Provided via the Internet, the system also stores all job information, consignment details and tracking on central services. Ultimate Express can check on any past delivery and access reports for performance assessment, customer enquiries and payroll.