Abstract: A method of providing auxiliary services in a computer network marketplace relating to an originating transaction between a customer and a host is described. The originating transaction typically involves self-help moving and relocating, such as reserving a moving truck or trailer and other moving equipment. The originating transaction is processed by accepting customer input requested by the host. The customer can access content describing an auxiliary service relating to the originating transaction, such as services from other vendors relating to moving and relocating. The service provider is listed in the marketplace at the discretion of the host and the customer input for the originating transaction is used by the host to expedite processing of a secondary transaction for the auxiliary service between the customer and the auxiliary service provider. The customer can use the marketplace to view information on the auxiliary service provider and to purchase the auxiliary service.

Abstract: A computer network (10) uses a central database (48) to manage a portfolio of real property holdings. The real property information related to the portfolio is stored on the central database and organized into a plurality of information categories. A computer hosts a website (60) for users to access the central database and view one or more categories of the real property information. Each authorized user can edit the real property information and save the edited real property information back to the central database. Other users access the edited real property information from the central database. The central database can also be used to compile real property information for offering as collateral in a loan package. The lender is given access to the real property information through the website. The real property information as selected for review by the lender is made available on the website.

Abstract: A latching system comprising a base having a first keeper secured thereto, a closable member adapted to engage the base, an elongated member rotatably secured to the closable member, said elongated member including a first connector adapted to engage the first keeper when the closable member engages the base and the elongated member is rotated, and a latch plate assembly hingedly secured to the closable member and adapted to rotate the elongated member.

Abstract: A device for shielding a coupling includes a generally central opening in which the coupling is disposed and at least one socket hole into which only a thin wall deep socket can operate to engage and disengage a screw into and from said socket hole. The device prevents tampering with the coupling.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fender including an offset light housing installed on a trailer or tow dolly for towing a vehicle or other piece of equipment. In a preferred embodiment the fender further includes a clearance increasing portion. The fenders minimize the possibility of damage to the vehicle or other piece of equipment. Also disclosed is a tow dolly including a tire platform that is positioned such that when an automobile is placed on the tow dolly, the axle of the automobile is positioned forwardly of the front-most axle of the tow dolly.

Abstract: A dedicated information display in a vehicle is provided, the display having a rearview mirror with a reflective surface. The display also includes a label having an adhesive side and a display side, and a size and a shape that covers a portion of the reflective surface of the rearview mirror. The adhesive side of the label is affixed to the rearview mirror such that the rearview mirror is converted into an effectively dedicated information display. The information display may also be constructed using an electronic display.

Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.

Abstract: A system and methods to allow multiple stations in geographically dispersed locations to monitor and track vehicle repair record and service status information in a coordinated fashion. In a service area comprised of a number of geographically-bounded service regions, at least one regional communications terminal is provided in communication with a plurality of local communications terminals. Each local communications terminal and regional communications terminal communicates with a vehicle service status database. Vehicle service events are entered into a vehicle tracking system and maintained using the vehicle status database. Database files are exchanged between local communications terminals and regional communications terminals and with a central equipment manager in order to provide timely and accurate dissemination of service status.

Abstract: The rate and distribution system of the present invention enables an user to more accurately and quickly generate specific rental rates employing a browser-based system. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rate and distribution system includes an interactive graphical mapping interface depicting the geographic location of the entities of an equipment rental business. The mapping interface preferably comprises a touchscreen and is configured to allow an user to define a region by selecting it on the map. Upon defining a region, the system enables the user to set a rental rate for the defined region. In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, the system enables the user to identify the equipment category to which the rate applies and select a future effective date for the rate.

Abstract: A device for shielding a coupling includes a generally central opening in which the coupling is disposed and at least one socket hole into which only a thin wall deep socket can operate to engage and disengage a screw into and from said socket hole. The device prevents tampering with the coupling.

Abstract: A device for shielding a coupling includes a generally central opening in which the coupling is disposed and at least one socket hole into which only a thin wall deep socket can operate to engage and disengage a screw into and from said socket hole. The device prevents tampering with the coupling.

Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.

Abstract: A dedicated information display in a vehicle is provided, the display having a rearview mirror with a reflective surface. The display also includes a label having an adhesive side and a display side, and a size and a shape that covers a portion of the reflective surface of the rearview mirror. The adhesive side of the label is affixed to the rearview mirror such that the rearview mirror is converted into an effectively dedicated information display. The information display may also be constructed using an electronic display.

Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.

Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.

Abstract: A fender having an inner side wall depending downwardly therefrom, wherein at least one advertising indicium is disposed on the inner side wall, the advertising indicium encompassing substantially the entire surface area of the inner side wall.

Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.

Abstract: A tensioning device includes an adjustable tensioning arm having first and second opposed ends, a first mounting bracket secured to the first end of the adjustable tensioning arm, and a second mounting bracket pivotally connected to the second end of the adjustable tensioning arm. The adjustable tensioning arm includes a middle member having first and second opposed ends, a first end member engaged with and extending from the first end of the middle member and a second end member engaged with and extending from the second end of the middle member.

Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.