ORBCOMM CT 1000 Tracks “Dry” Marine Containers

ORBCOMM Inc., a global provider of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, is leveraging its new CT 1000 telematics technology “to provide end-to-end monitoring for dry marine containers moving through complex supply chains around the world. Dry containers are a type of standard shipping or cargo container that accommodates dry, non-temperature-sensitive shipments. They are typically available in 40-foot size, although there are 20-foot options available. The containers consist of strong steel to resist wind, rain and saltwater.

CT 1000, which is expected to be commercially available in early 2023, “digitalizes global container shipping, providing visibility and traceability for shipping lines and their customers so they can turn real-time data into decisions about their maritime operations,” the company said. “It allows shippers and operators to track the location and status of their dry marine containers at every point in the asset’s journey, with both real-time and historical reporting, whether they are in a warehouse or moving on a truck, rail or vessel. Customers can estimate arrival times, identify problems and quickly deploy corrective measures to mitigate delays in the supply chain. With temperature monitoring and shock detection as standard features, customers will be able to always monitor cargo status and be notified of tampering, unauthorized access or unscheduled loading or unloading for maximum security. The increase in real-time data enables customers to optimize their business, reduce operating costs and create more sustainable supply chains by filling critical information gaps.”

ORBCOMM added that CT 1000 “utilizes future-proofing technology that is designed for reporting longevity, update flexibility and compliance with certified-safe maritime industry standards. The state-of-the-art device features an impressive battery life and intelligent solar power management and is expected to provide up to three months of operation at 75% capacity with-out sun exposure for reliable and uninterrupted reporting even in the harshest conditions.

“ORBCOMM’s Global SIM provides unmatched, cost-effective LTE coverage to meet shippers’ unique requirements for intercontinental coverage. Additional wireless BLE sensors will also be supported to integrate other safety and productivity applications that will enhance the solution’s capabilities. In addition, ORBCOMM’s device is certified to the ATEX Zone 2 explosion-proof standard, ensuring safety for vessel crews and cargo. The unit can be installed in as little as one minute and is built to require no manual attention after installation.”

“ORBCOMM is continuing to drive innovation and lead the container shipping industry in delivering best-in-class telematics solutions that digitalize complex supply chains and improve visibility, sustainability and customer satisfaction,” said ORBCOMM Executive Vice President Global Sales Christian Allred. “Our new dry container monitoring solution integrates the latest energy-harvesting technology and low power consumption to meet the industry’s need for longevity, reliability and durability as shipping lines continue to make their operations more trans-parent, secure and profitable.”

Hapag-Lloyd is the first in the industry to leverage CT 1000 “to gain increased transparency and improve the management of strained supply chains for the benefit of customers,” ORBCOMM said. “We developed a purpose-built CT 1000 device for Hapag-Lloyd, which is expected to begin installing it their dry containers in December 2022.”