Abstract: Aspects of the invention are related to a point of sale system located at a truck stop that integrates an image processing device, such as a scanner. The system can transmit transportation documents to at least one remote recipient. Such a system can streamline the billing process in the trucking industry. The system can utilize a smart card or other data card for retrieving additional information, such as the identity of the recipient of the transportation document.

Abstract: A system and method for sending e-mail messages between an authorized user connected to a publicly accessible computer network system and a vehicle occupant using a private communication system having different messaging formats. E-mail messages are received by an interface, converted into an appropriate format, and transmitted to an intended user or vehicle occupant if a sufficient balance exists in an account associated with the vehicle occupant.

Abstract: A communication system for transmitting messages includes a mobile private communication system. The mobile private communication system has a mobile terminal disposed in each of a plurality of trucks, the mobile terminal having a transceiver, an electronic control unit in communication with the transceiver, and a display in communication with the electronic control unit for displaying the messages. A satellite transmits the messages to the mobile terminal, and a satellite dish transmits the messages to the satellite. A satellite hub converts the messages to a satellite transmittable form. An interface is provided, having a local management system for adjusting an account for each of the messages being transmitted to the mobile terminal, and further for ensuring that the account has a sufficient balance prior to transmitting messages to the mobile terminal.

Abstract: A system and method for assigning hauling vehicles to freight loads within a freight transportation system is disclosed herein. The system includes a satellite navigation subsystem for providing vehicle and load position data useable to determine the locations of each hauling vehicle and freight load. The position data may also be utilized to determine a set of deadhead distances required to be traversed by ones of the hauling vehicles unencumbered with freight loads while en route to load pick-up locations. Each unencumbered tractor vehicle is then efficiently matched with an available freight load in accordance with the compiled sets of deadhead distances and a set of potential pick-up times. Objectives such as punctual load pick-up and delivery, full utilization of available tractor vehicles, and maintaining scheduled driver home-base times of arrival may be achieved through "relay" operations.