SAFMARINE COMPUTER Systems Africa (SCSA) has come up with an innovative container tracking solution, using cellphone technology rather than Internet as the message medium. Developed for Maersk Sealand and Safmarine, the system is widely available, easily accessible and cost effective. Since Internet infrastructure is fairly immature while cellular technology is well developed and has a wide user-base in Africa, the black-owned IT company chose to go this route. Using the SMS “Track and Trace” solution, the client merely sends an SMS request using his container, bill of lading or booking number, to the Maersk or Safmarine publicised mobile number. Within minutes he will receive a response via SMS detailing the last known move for that consignment including the relevant transportation details.
