Never satisfied with the status quo when it comes to improving operations, Walmart began looking at wireless technology for another application: controlling and monitoring forklifts and industrial vehicles that move merchandise inside its distribution centers. More than 100 such vehicles are utilized in a typical Walmart distribution facility. Walmart developed a list of required and desired functions for the “ideal” industrial vehicle management system. For productivity management, Walmart wanted to implement new activity metrics to better analyze and optimize the utilization of vehicles and operators. Management also wished to achieve better asset visibility, including a more detailed understanding of time- motion history. In addition, Walmart wanted to enhance work assignment communication, especially in response to unexpected changes in task priorities.

Forward Air Corporation is a leading provider of time- definite surface transportation and related logistics services to the North American air freight and expedited LTL market. In 2007, Forward Air began deploying the Powerfleet trailer tracking devices across its LTL trailer fleet, supporting deliveries through its central hub in Columbus, Ohio and 11 regional hubs to 85 cities across North America. Since implementation of the system began, Forward Air has grown its core business and added three new business groups.