Dual Tracking Stops Freight Fraud: How Descartes’ New Tech Cuts Blind Spots
Freight tracking is evolving beyond basic location updates with a new tool designed to eliminate blind spots in shipment visibility. Descartes has launched its MacroPoint ELD+ feature, which simultaneously monitors electronic logging devices (ELDs), trailer GPS, and driver mobile apps instead of relying on a single data source.
Andrew Wimer, Associate General Manager of Transportation Management at Descartes, explained during a FreightWaves’ What the Truck?!? episode that while the core question remains “Where’s my truck or freight?”, the industry’s dependence on ELDs alone has created limitations. The new system addresses these by combining multiple tracking sources to maintain continuous visibility.
Closing Visibility Gaps Through Redundancy: freight visibility
“We’re tracking the ELD, the truck, and the driver simultaneously,” Wimer stated. “If one device loses connectivity, the other continues providing data, preventing gaps in the shipment timeline.” This redundancy ensures brokers and shippers receive uninterrupted updates, even if technical issues arise with a single tracking method.
The dual-tracking approach does more than prevent data loss—it actively flags inconsistencies. Wimer noted that when truck and driver data align, it creates a reliable narrative of the shipment’s journey. Discrepancies, however, can signal potential fraud, giving brokers additional tools to verify carrier claims.
Beyond fraud prevention, the system reintegrates drivers into the tracking process. Wimer emphasized that excluding drivers from visibility workflows removed a valuable layer of real-time confirmation. “Millions of reliable drivers can help validate shipment status, from confirming dock arrivals to uploading proof-of-delivery documents,” he said. This engagement speeds up paperwork and reduces reliance on manual updates.
Enhanced Fraud Detection and Driver Engagement
For brokers, the feature also addresses a persistent challenge: inaccurate driver information in transportation management systems (TMS). Wimer stressed that accurate data—such as correct phone or trailer numbers—is essential for effective tracking. Without this foundation, even advanced systems struggle to deliver reliable results.
By combining redundancy with driver participation, ELD+ sets a new standard for freight visibility, prioritizing accuracy, fraud detection, and operational efficiency.
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