Port Logistics Group Plays Key Role in Project to Streamline Port Operations

Freight Advanced Traveler Information Program (FRATIS) Demonstration Project Goes Live

December 9, 2013

HOUSTON, December 9, 2013 /PR Newswire/ — Port Logistics Group, the nation’s leading provider of gateway logistics services, will be a key participant in the launch of the Freight Advanced Traveler Information Program (FRATIS) Demonstration Project, which will go live on Wednesday, December 11, 2013. Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), the project is expected to streamline area traffic, improve air quality, and ultimately boost the competitive positions of the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach in the world market.

The Los Angeles-Gateway Cities Region and the private sector formed the partnership with the joint goal of reducing traffic congestion during peak hours by improving the information flow between truck fleets and port terminals. Real-time information will allow drivers and schedulers to reroute and reschedule according to current conditions in the port and on freeways and arterial highways.

The Demonstration Project is a public and private collaboration whose partners include The Harbor Trucking Association, Port Logistics Group, and Yusen Terminals, Inc. The system development team is led by Cambridge Systematics utilizing specialized optimization software developed by Productivity Apex. The primary regional public sector agencies supporting the test include the Los Angeles Metropolitan County Transportation Authority (Metro) and the Gateway Cities Council of Governments. The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach have provided advice to the program.

Michael J. Johnson, President of the Harbor Trucking Assn. and Director of Intermodal Operations for Port Logistics Group, notes that, “FRATIS will demonstrate dynamic travel planning and new communications for freight movement in this region. By using Bluetooth proximity readers in and around the marine terminal in conjunction with dynamic routing, the system can communicate where congestion is to truckers and dispatchers. Using this information allows us to plan terminal visits in a way that can assist all parties in moving containers more efficiently.”

Members of the press are invited to learn about the project during an informational session presented by the freight industry participants starting at 9:30 am, Wednesday, December 11, 2013. The event will be held at Port Logistics Group – Transport Express, 19801 S. Santa Fe Street, Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221.

An informative video on the inception and goals of the collaborative effort is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJzTRQiuJhs.

Media Contact:
Rich Reba | Director of Marketing | Whiplash | Rich.Reba@whiplash.com | 201-345-9075 x2601