In cooperation with industry, and on behalf of the U.S. DOT ITS Joint Program Office, U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sponsored the Hazardous Materials Safety and Security Technology Field Operational Test, finalized in November 2004. The purpose of this project was to test methods for leveraging technology and operations to improve HAZMAT transport security and operational efficiency. The evaluation of this FOT quantified costs resulting from technology deployments that improve the security and operational efficiency of HAZMAT shipments from origin to destination.

Table 1 presents the costs by industry segment (capital costs are amortized over 3 years). The annual costs per truck include the initial purchase of equipment and installation amortized over 3 years plus annual messaging and maintenance service fees.

Regardless of technology configuration in the FOT, two technologies create the enabling platform on which the other test technologies operate - wireless communications and asset positioning/tracking. Through discussions with the participating motor carriers, these two capabilities provide the majority of measurable operational benefits. Without these two capabilities, potential operational, as well as safety and security benefits of the other test technologies, could not be realized.

Technology Costs

Table 1: Per Truck-Specific Technology Costs (Wireless Communications with GPS Tracking Capabilities)

Item	Purchase Cost Truck Terrestrial/Satellite	Annual Cost Truck Terrestrial/Satellite
Mobile Communications with GPS Tracking Units (Hardware Costs)	$1,000 / $2,000	$336 / $672
Installation	$200	$72
Basic Monthly Service (per truck)		$600
Monthly Maintenance Agreement		$180
Total Per Truck Costs	$1,200 / $2,200	$1,188 / $1,524

This report, finalized in November 2004, is an assessment of research focusing on the use of technology to address HAZMAT safety and security. These findings along with the costs provide a valuable resource to those considering the implementation of advanced technology for freight safety and security.