The UPS Approach

At UPS, the label includes two kinds of printed symbols. First, there's a two-dimensional "dense code" that uses the Maxicode symbology developed by UPS. This code contains information used to sort packages inside a UPS facility

There's also a linear bar code, which represents the tracking number. This is the code that the driver scans with his DIAD as he receives the package from the shipper.

"That's effectively giving notice that UPS has taken custody of the package," Brown said.

Since 1999, DIADs have had integrated radios, letting drivers upload information about a pickup or delivery in almost real time, rather than waiting to return to a truck. UPS uses a variety of wireless networks to transmit its data (see "Evolution of the UPS DIAD").

UPS started rolling out its latest handheld scanner, the DIAD V, in September, 2011. Made by Honeywell Scanning and Mobility, it is based on that company's Dolphin 99EX handheld computer.

Once UPS takes possession of a package, someone scans the tracking code on its label each time the package enters or leaves a UPS facility. The penultimate scan occurs when the package leaves the building in the destination city. The final scan occurs when the driver delivers the package. Where it's required, the driver uses the DIAD to capture a signature, as well.

Besides providing information to shippers and consignees who want to follow the progress of their shipments, the tracking data supports UPS's internal operations.

"We use it for our routing and scheduling, and for making sure that we get the package from the current hub to the next one and to the destination building within the time frame that we advertised to the customer," Brown said.

The data also has made some new services possible. One is My Choice, introduced in 2011. Shippers that enroll for this service can go to the UPS website to provide directions about their package, even after they've handed a shipment to the delivery company.

"They can log on and request that a package be rerouted or indicate that it's OK to release it [without a signature], even though it's in an area where signatures are required," Brown said. The tracking number allows UPS to find the package, wherever it is, and apply the new delivery instructions.

Similarly, UPS now offers customers the chance to intercept packages en route.

"Maybe they shipped a group of packages and then realized that they shipped them to their customer's billing site instead of their dock or warehousing site," Brown said. "Even after those packages were en route, they could redirect or put a stop on them."

Evolution of the UPS DIAD

DIAD I – 1990

• Delivery information uploaded at end of day upon return to UPS.

DIAD II – 1993

• Delivery information uploaded in real time through in-vehicle cellular service.
• Conduit for two-way communications in vehicle.

DIAD III – 1999

• Enables two-way communication away from vehicle, via three methods:
  • Internal packet data radio.
  • In-vehicle cellular service.
  • Built-in automatic dialer for traditional telephone transmission.

DIAD IV – 2004

• Provides Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPRS or CDMA connectivity options.
• Includes GPS capabilities
• Acoustical modem allows dial-up access, if necessary.

DIAD V – 2010

• Can switch on the fly between cellular carriers, independent of cellular technology.
• Faster Wi-Fi support (600 Mb/s) enables larger and richer content downloads, such as training videos.

Source: UPS