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Trimble Visibility Drive App for shipment tracking

A step-by-step guide for carriers to allocate driver’s phone number, and ensure real-time shipment visibility

Daniel Cabezas avatar
Written by Daniel Cabezas
Updated over a month ago

Icon image What is Trimble Visibility Drive?

Trimble Visibility Drive is a mobile-based solution that enables real-time shipment tracking using the driver’s Android or iOS smartphone. It is ideal for situations where GPS or ELD integration isn't possible. The solution provides end-to-end visibility from pickup through delivery and includes features like document uploads, photo sharing, and notes. Currently, it's available to select customers and carriers in North America.

Quick Overview: How it Works

  1. Carrier allocates driver’s phone number to the shipment

  2. Driver receives text message with the tracking link

  3. Driver opens the app; tracking starts

  4. Real-time location updates shared until delivery

Allocating the Driver’s Phone Number: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Access shipment details

  • Go to "Road transports" or use the search bar to find and select the relevant shipment

Step 2: Allocate the driver's phone number

  • Click "Allocate" to assign the driver's phone number

  • Open the "Allocate to Trimble Visibility Drive" tab.

  • Enter the driver’s phone number or alias. If already saved, it will auto-fill.
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  • If the number isn’t recognized:

    • Click "Add a new phone number".

    • Enter the name and number of the phone


​Step 3: Verify the allocation

  • Confirm the mobile icon and driver’s number (last 4 digits visible to customers) appear in the transport view.

  • If needed, click "Change Allocation" to update the number.

  • Wait for the driver to activate tracking by opening the SMS link.

Using the Trimble Visibility Drive App

Step 1: Receive SMS

  • The driver receives a text message with the tracking link

Step 2: Open the Link

  • First-time users: Install the app via the device’s app store.

  • Allow "Always" location access and background activity if prompted.

  • Returning users: The app opens directly and tracking starts automatically.

Step 3: Use App Tools During Shipment

  • View shipment details such as stops, delivery orders and route information

  • Upload documents such as POD, CMR, signature capture, and photos

  • Add relevant notes

  • End tracking once the shipment is completed (this step is important)

  • Report any delivery issues

Refer to the Visibility Drive Mobile Application User Guide (pdf) for full instructions.

What You See in Transporeon Visibility

Once the driver starts tracking, their location updates and activity appear in Transporeon:

  • Real-Time Location: A mobile icon displays live updates every 1–3 minutes
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  • Uploaded Documents: Files are shown in the Documents tab.
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  • Exceptions & Notes: Driver-reported issues, photos, and notes appear in the timeline.

Sharing Visibility with Customers

Use the Customer Portal to share shipment data:

  • Admins can create filters to choose visible transports.

  • Share access securely via a link.

  • Customers can view:

    • Shipment details (addresses, stops, timing)

    • Uploaded files and notes

Learn how to create Customer Portals

Delivery Issue Notifications

Stay informed about delivery problems via Transport Notifications:

  • Receive alerts when drivers report issues.

  • Customize triggers for notifications.

  • Choose email or SMS alerts.

  • Notifications include shipment details and direct transport view links.

Set up Notification Rules
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

SMS & App Setup

  • What if the SMS doesn’t arrive?
    Confirm the phone number (with country code). If needed, remove and reallocate.

  • Does the driver need to reinstall the app?
    No, once installed, the link will open the app directly.

  • What if tracking isn’t activated?
    Ask the driver to open the SMS link and allow location permissions.

Phone Number Management

  • Can I change the phone number?
    Yes, use the "Change Allocation" option.

  • Can I assign the same number to multiple shipments?
    Yes, but tracking must be activated separately for each.

  • Can I delete a saved phone number?
    No, but you can add a new number if needed.

  • Where can I view saved phone numbers?
    In the Vehicle Management overview.

Driver Activity & Tracking

  • What if the driver ends tracking early?
    Ask them to reopen the SMS link to resume tracking.

  • Can the driver make updates after marking a shipment as complete in the app?
    Yes, the driver can still make updates as long as the shipment remains accessible in the app.

  • Can subcontractors use the app?
    Yes, if they are in your Transporeon Visibility network.

Customer Visibility

  • Can customers see the phone number and name ?
    No, only the last four digits are visible.

  • Can customers view uploaded documents and notes?
    Yes, all updates submitted by the driver are shared.

General & Advanced Use

  • Can I use the app for all customers?
    No, it’s only available to select customers in North America.

  • Is there a better way to share visibility?
    Yes, consider automated visibility methods

  • Can I allocate drivers via API?
    Yes, contact support for integration options.

For troubleshooting or to request the full Visibility Drive User Guide, contact support.transporeon.com.

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