Tracking app requirements
Many brokers require the driver to stay on a tracking app or link for the whole load. That's often reasonable. The problem is a fixed fine for a "tracking failure" that is charged even when the load arrives on time.
Why brokers ask for tracking
Shippers want to know where their freight is without calling anyone. Tracking platforms let the broker share the truck's location from the driver's phone or the truck's ELD. For the carrier, a working tracking link can replace most check calls, which is a real time saver.
Where it goes wrong
- Phone apps drop out: dead zones, battery saver, an operating-system update or the app being closed can stop pings without the driver noticing.
- "Must remain on tracking for the entire load" makes any gap a breach, even an hour in a dead zone.
- Flat fines ("failure to track will result in a $250 fine") are charged per load, not per hour late, and are independent of whether the freight was on time.
- Privacy: some apps keep tracking after delivery unless the load is closed. Check the app's settings and close the load when you're done.
Practical setup
If the broker supports ELD-based tracking, it's usually more reliable than a phone app. If you use the phone, exempt the app from battery optimization, keep the phone charging, and screenshot the "tracking active" screen at pickup. If tracking drops, message the broker right away with your location so the gap is documented.
Phones and the driver
Tracking shouldn't require handling the phone while driving. Federal rules prohibit texting and using a hand-held mobile phone while driving a commercial motor vehicle, and prohibit carriers from allowing or requiring it (49 CFR 392.80, 49 CFR 392.82). Set up tracking before you roll.
What the Rate Con Checker flags
The checker recognizes MacroPoint, Trucker Tools, FourKites, project44 (or "P44"), "tracking app", "tracking link" and "must track". A tracking requirement on its own is a note. A tracking requirement near "fine", "penalty", "deduct" or a dollar amount is a flag, and the dollar amount also counts in the fines rule. The checker doesn't object to tracking itself.
What to ask for
Please remove the fine tied to tracking. I'll provide check calls on request.
A middle ground some carriers accept: no fine if the load is on time, or a fine only after the broker has asked for a location and not received one within a set time.