Florida International Terminal (FIT) has successfully deployed the eModal Community Portal (eCP) PreGate appointment module to improve turn times and customer service.
The port operator of a 41 acre marine terminal in the Southport area of Port Everglades is the first port terminal in South Florida to implement an appointment system.
Advent Intermodal Solutions, provider of the eModal suite of applications that simplify and accelerate the flow of cargo across the landside supply chain, said that this is Phase One of FIT’s eModal implementation.
In this first phase, truckers picking up import containers will now schedule a pick-up appointment via eModal. Phase One also enables all FIT stakeholders to monitor container availability and hold/fee status through the eModal Community Portal, and receive updates as soon as their cargo becomes available for pickup. Later this year, FIT will expand the system to include pre-advice for export containers and empty returns.
By implementing eModal’s PreGate module for import containers, FIT can eliminate up to 30 minutes of driver wait time, particularly for reefer imports, it said.
Previously, upon arrival, truckers typically had to wait for a reefer mechanic to inspect reefer temperature, mount a genset and verify fuel levels before the driver could depart. Now, with the eModal appointment system in place, FIT can ensure these services are completed prior to the trucker’s timed arrival window.
“We are pleased to have successfully completed the go-live of eModal’s PreGate appointment solution for import containers and look forward to expanding the system in the coming months,” said Klaus Stadthagen, Vice President and General Manager, Florida International Terminal. “Implementing eModal enables us to deliver even better service to our customers through reduced trucker turn times and more efficient gate operations.”