ARK TMS Verbal SMS Consent Workflow

Documented four-step dispatcher workflow used to capture verbal authorization and confirm ARK TMS system compliance before any driver receives SMS messages.

Dispatcher script → Broker checkbox → Consent logging → First SMS disclosures

Four-Step Verbal Consent Workflow

ARK TMS operates under a B2B2C (Business-to-Business-to-Consumer) model where dispatchers act as authorized agents for their drivers. We enforce the four-step workflow below to confirm verbal authorization before any SMS is sent through Twilio.

1. Dispatcher Script & Driver Approval

During load assignment, the dispatcher reads the ARK-provided script verbatim and records the driver's audible confirmation. Consent is collected verbally—no SMS keywords or web forms are used.

Verbatim Script Dispatchers Must Read

"This load will use ARK TMS for tracking and communication. You will receive text messages to [driver phone number] including:"

  • Login verification codes
  • App download instructions
  • Load pickup and delivery confirmations

"Standard message and data rates will apply. You can opt-out anytime by replying STOP to any message. Do you agree to receive these text messages for this load?"

Dispatcher must hear a clear "Yes" (or similar affirmative response) before proceeding.

Document immediately:

  • Driver name and confirmed phone number
  • Date/time of verbal consent
  • Load reference number for the shipment

2. Broker Checkbox Attestation

Inside ARK TMS, the broker/dispatcher must check the consent checkbox that reads: "I confirm the driver approved ARK TMS SMS communications for this load." The checkbox is mandatory—SMS invitations cannot be sent until it is selected, and the attesting user ID is stored with the record.

3. Consent Logging & Audit Data

When the form is submitted, ARK TMS automatically logs: timestamp, dispatcher/broker user ID, driver phone number, carrier/organization ID, load reference, consent method (verbal), and script version.

These logs are stored in Supabase with encryption at rest and are exportable for auditors and carriers within minutes.

4. First SMS with Authorization Statement

After consent is logged, the first SMS reiterates that the carrier authorized the outreach and provides all required disclosures, including STOP instructions, terms, privacy, and support details.

SMS

FROM: ARK TMS

"ARK TMS: Carrier ABC confirmed you for load #12345. Login code: 458932 (expires in 10 min). Reply STOP to opt out. Terms: arktms.com/terms Privacy: arktms.com/legal/privacy-policy Support: support@arktms.com"

Every first message references the authorizing carrier/dispatcher, STOP instructions, a link to terms and privacy, and a support contact path.

Consent Records Snapshot

A dedicated consent ledger preserves verbal authorizations for compliance.

  • Authorizing-party IDs (user + organization) are stored with every consent record.
  • Records are retained for a minimum of four years and can be exported for audit on request.
  • Audit access includes consent method, load reference, and first-message checksum for traceability.

Important Disclosures (Required by TCPA & Twilio):

  • Message and data rates may apply. Standard message and data rates charged by your wireless carrier may apply to text messages sent and received.
  • Message Frequency: Message frequency may vary based on account activity and operational needs.
  • Opt-Out: You can opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message. You may also opt out by replying STOPALL, UNSUBSCRIBE, CANCEL, END, or QUIT. After opting out, you will receive one final confirmation message.
  • Help: For help, reply HELP to any message.
  • Authorized Agent Model: Consent is obtained through your carrier/dispatcher as an authorized agent. This follows standard logistics industry practice where carriers maintain driver consent as part of employment/contractor agreements.
  • Carrier Information: Supported carriers include, but are not limited to: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, and other major U.S. carriers. Message delivery is not guaranteed and may be delayed.

Message Types You May Receive:

  • One-time passwords (OTP) for secure app authentication
  • Initial app setup instructions and download links
  • Critical load status updates related to your assigned shipments
  • Account notifications and customer care communications

No marketing messages are ever sent. All communications are operational and directly related to your work with the freight carrier.

Overview

ARK TMS is a transportation management system used by freight brokers to manage loads and communicate with their contracted drivers. We operate under a B2B2C (Business-to-Business-to-Consumer) model where carriers and dispatchers act as authorized agents for their drivers. This page explains how verbal authorization is obtained through authorized agents before sending SMS messages to drivers and documents our compliance with TCPA and CTIA messaging standards.

Complete Verbal Authorization Workflow

Our verbal authorization process follows standard logistics industry practices where carriers and dispatchers act as authorized agents for their drivers:

1

Load Assignment & Dispatcher Confirmation

When a carrier accepts a load assignment from a broker using ARK TMS, the dispatcher verbally confirms with their driver:

Verbal Confirmation Script:

"This load will use ARK TMS for tracking and communication. You will receive text messages to [driver phone number] including login verification codes, app download instructions, and load pickup/delivery confirmations."

"Standard message and data rates will apply. You can opt-out anytime by replying STOP to any message. Do you agree to receive these text messages for this load?"

Key Point: Dispatcher must hear an affirmative "Yes" before entering the driver into ARK TMS.

Immediately record driver name, confirmed phone number, consent time, and load reference.

2

Consent Confirmation in ARK TMS

The broker/dispatcher checks a required consent confirmation box in ARK TMS:

I confirm the driver has agreed to receive SMS communications for this load

Required Action: This checkbox cannot be bypassed. The system will not allow SMS sending without this confirmation.

3

Consent Logging & Record Keeping

ARK TMS automatically logs the consent with the following information:

  • Timestamp: Exact date and time of consent confirmation
  • Authorizing Party: Broker/dispatcher ID and name
  • Driver Phone Number: Number to receive SMS communications
  • Load Reference: Associated load/shipment number

Audit Compliance: These records are maintained in our database and available for audit upon request.

4

First SMS Delivery (After Authorization)

Only after verbal authorization is confirmed and logged, the driver receives their first SMS message:

SMS

FROM: ARK TMS

"ARK TMS: Carrier ABC confirmed you for load #12345. Login code: 458932 (expires in 10 min). Reply STOP to opt out. Terms: arktms.com/terms Privacy: arktms.com/legal/privacy-policy Support: support@arktms.com"

First Message Includes: Carrier authorization reference, STOP instructions, terms + privacy links, and live support contact details.

Sample Consent Script for Dispatchers

When obtaining verbal authorization from drivers, dispatchers and brokers should use clear, straightforward language. Below is our recommended script:

Recommended Script:

"This load will use ARK TMS for tracking and communication. You will receive text messages to [driver phone number] including:"

  • Login verification codes
  • App download instructions
  • Load pickup and delivery confirmations

"Standard message and data rates will apply. You can opt-out anytime by replying STOP to any message. Do you agree to receive these text messages for this load?"

What to Cover:

  • Confirm the destination phone number with the driver
  • List the message types (OTP codes, app instructions, pickup/delivery updates)
  • Remind the driver about STOP instructions and standard messaging rates
  • Note the load reference this consent applies to

Important Compliance Notes:

  • Driver must verbally respond "Yes" (or similar) before moving on
  • Record driver name, confirmed phone number, consent timestamp, and load ID
  • Check the ARK TMS consent box only after documentation is saved
  • Never send SMS messages to drivers who decline or have not responded

Additional Information

VERBAL CONSENT SCRIPT: Dispatchers inform drivers: "You'll receive text messages from ARK TMS with login codes for the driver app and updates for this load. These messages will go to [confirm phone number]. Standard message rates apply. You can opt-out by replying STOP. Do you agree to receive these messages?"

Driver must verbally confirm YES (or similar) before the number is added to ARK TMS. The broker/dispatcher then records the consent in ARK TMS, creating a timestamped audit record tied to that user ID.

Document the following immediately after consent:

  • Driver name
  • Phone number confirmed
  • Date/time of verbal consent
  • Load reference number

Only after verbal confirmation is obtained and documented should the dispatcher add the driver's number to ARK TMS. This procedure aligns with logistics industry standards where carriers act as authorized agents for their drivers under DOT regulations and carrier agreements. No marketing messages are ever sent—only operational updates necessary for the load.

Complete System Flowchart

The following diagram illustrates the complete end-to-end consent collection and SMS delivery process:

1. Carrier Accepts Load Assignment

Business relationship established

2. Dispatcher Obtains Verbal Consent

Uses approved load-specific script covering phone, message types, STOP instructions, and confirmation of consent.

3. Dispatcher Opens ARK TMS

Navigates to "Add Driver" or "Invite to App"

4. System Shows Consent Checkbox

Required field: "I confirm verbal consent was obtained"

5. Validation Check

Is consent checkbox checked?

✗ NO

Error Message

Form blocked

✓ YES

Proceed

Continue to next step

6. System Logs Consent to Database

Timestamp, User ID, Phone, Load #, Consent Method

7. First SMS Sent to Driver

Includes carrier reference, OTP code, STOP instructions, terms/privacy, and support contact

8. Consent Record Stored

Available for audit (4+ year retention)

Key Compliance Points:

  • Consent obtained BEFORE any SMS is sent
  • Verbal consent confirmed via mandatory checkbox (cannot be bypassed)
  • All consent events logged with full audit trail
  • Authorizing party (dispatcher/broker) identified in every record
  • First message includes carrier authorization reference

Consent Collection Interface in ARK TMS

Our system includes a built-in consent confirmation mechanism that ensures dispatchers cannot send SMS messages without first confirming that verbal authorization has been obtained from the driver.

Driver Invitation Interface:

Invite driver to mobile app
* Required: I confirm that I have verbally informed this driver that they will receive text messages from ARK TMS for login codes, app setup instructions, and load updates, and they have agreed to receive these messages. I understand this consent will be logged with my user ID and timestamp.

Screenshot of actual ARK TMS consent collection interface

How It Works:

  1. Dispatcher toggles "Invite driver to mobile app"
  2. Consent confirmation checkbox appears (required)
  3. System validates checkbox is checked before proceeding
  4. If unchecked, error message: "Please confirm verbal consent was obtained"
  5. Only after confirmation is SMS sent to driver

Technical Implementation:

  • Frontend Validation: Form cannot submit without consent checkbox
  • Backend Logging: Consent data sent to API with driver info
  • Database Record: Consent stored with authorizing user ID
  • Audit Trail: Timestamp, user, driver, and load reference logged

SMS Message Types

Once verbal authorization is obtained, drivers may receive the following types of SMS messages:

1. One-Time Password (OTP) / Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Security codes for logging into the mobile app (e.g., "Your verification code is: 123456") - Most common message type

2. Driver App Setup

Initial message with app download link and setup instructions (sent after verbal authorization)

3. Load Status Updates

Critical operational notifications related to assigned loads and shipments

4. Customer Care Communications

Support messages and assistance from the freight broker or ARK TMS support team

Note: No marketing messages are ever sent. All communications are strictly operational and directly related to the driver's work with the freight carrier.

Sample SMS Conversation Threads

Below are anonymized examples of actual SMS messages sent after verbal authorization is obtained:

Example 1: First Message (After Verbal Authorization)

Sent after dispatcher obtains verbal consent and confirms in ARK TMS

FROM: ARK TMS

"ARK TMS: Carrier ABC confirmed you for load #12345. Login code: 458932 (expires in 10 min). Reply STOP to opt out. Terms: arktms.com/terms Privacy: arktms.com/legal/privacy-policy Support: support@arktms.com"

10:15 AM

Note: First message references carrier authorization, OTP code, STOP instructions, terms, privacy, and a live support contact.

Example 2: App Setup Instructions

FROM: ARK TMS

"ARK TMS: Download the driver app: https://ark.app/download Login with your phone number to access your loads. Reply STOP to opt-out. Help: support@arktms.com"

10:20 AM

Example 3: Subsequent Login (OTP Authentication)

When driver logs into the app after initial setup

FROM: ARK TMS

"ARK TMS: Your verification code is: 123456. This code expires in 10 minutes."

2:15 PM

Note: OTP messages are user-initiated when the driver attempts to log into the mobile app.

Example 4: Opt-Out Process

FROM: ARK TMS

"Your verification code is: 789012. This code expires in 60 seconds."

3:20 PM

TO: ARK TMS

"STOP"

3:21 PM

FROM: ARK TMS

"You have been unsubscribed from ARK TMS SMS messages. No more messages will be sent. Reply START to resubscribe."

3:21 PM

Consent Records & Audit Trail

ARK TMS maintains comprehensive records of all verbal authorization consents obtained through our platform. These records are available for audit upon request and comply with TCPA recordkeeping requirements.

Information Logged for Each Consent:

📅

Timestamp

Exact date and time when consent was confirmed in the system

👤

Authorizing Party

Broker/dispatcher user ID, name, and organization

📱

Driver Phone Number

Phone number authorized to receive SMS communications

🚛

Load Reference

Associated load number and shipment details

Audit Availability:

  • Database Storage: All consent records are securely stored in our database with encryption at rest
  • Retention Period: Records retained for regulatory compliance (minimum 4 years as required by TCPA)
  • Audit Access: Records available upon request from regulatory authorities, carriers, or for dispute resolution
  • Verification: Each consent includes the authorizing party's digital signature through the checkbox confirmation

Sample Consent Records (Anonymized)

Below are examples of actual consent records stored in our database:

Consent Record #1
consent_id: "cns_abc123xyz456"
created_at: "2025-01-15T14:23:47.000Z"
driver_phone: "+15551234567"
driver_name: "John D. [REDACTED]"
carrier_id: "car_789"
carrier_name: "ABC Trucking LLC"
authorizing_user_id: "usr_456"
authorizing_user_name: "Jane Smith (Dispatcher)"
load_reference: "LOAD-2025-00123"
consent_method: "verbal"
consent_confirmed: true
sms_sent: true
invitation_status: "active"
Consent Record #2
consent_id: "cns_def789ghi012"
created_at: "2025-01-16T09:17:22.000Z"
driver_phone: "+15559876543"
driver_name: "Maria G. [REDACTED]"
carrier_id: "car_234"
carrier_name: "XYZ Logistics Inc"
authorizing_user_id: "usr_890"
authorizing_user_name: "Bob Johnson (Broker)"
load_reference: "LOAD-2025-00124"
consent_method: "verbal"
consent_confirmed: true
sms_sent: true
invitation_status: "active"

Note: Personal information has been redacted for privacy. These records are representative samples showing the data structure and fields logged for each consent event.

B2B2C Business Model & Authorized Agents

ARK TMS operates under a B2B2C (Business-to-Business-to-Consumer) model that is standard in the logistics and transportation industry. This model involves three parties:

1. ARK TMS (Platform)

Provides transportation management software and facilitates SMS communications

2. Freight Broker/Carrier (Authorized Agent)

Acts as authorized agent, obtaining verbal consent from their drivers

3. Driver (End Recipient)

Independent contractor or employee who receives SMS communications

Authorized Agent Relationship:

All drivers receiving SMS messages have an established business relationship with the freight broker or carrier using ARK TMS. The carrier/dispatcher acts as an authorized agent with the legal authority to:

  • Obtain verbal consent for SMS communications on behalf of their drivers
  • Manage driver contact information as part of their employment/contractor relationship
  • Authorize operational SMS communications related to load assignments
  • Represent driver interests in business transactions with ARK TMS

Operational Nature of Messages: All SMS communications are strictly operational in nature and directly related to the transportation services being provided. This includes authentication for secure app access, load status updates, and critical account notifications. No marketing or promotional messages are ever sent.

Opt-Out & Privacy

How to Opt Out

Drivers can opt out of SMS communications at any time by:

  • Replying STOP to any message
  • Replying with: STOPALL, UNSUBSCRIBE, CANCEL, END, or QUIT

Upon receiving STOP, we immediately cease all SMS communications to that phone number. The opt-out is processed automatically and takes effect within seconds.

How to Opt Back In

Drivers who previously opted out can re-subscribe by replying START, UNSTOP, or YES to resume SMS communications. Note that re-subscription requires explicit consent again.

Message Frequency

Message frequency may vary.

This includes app setup instructions, OTP codes, account notifications, and customer care communications. Messages are sent only when necessary for account operations and security.

App Setup Messages

One-time message sent only after verbal authorization is obtained by carrier/dispatcher

Authentication Codes (OTP/2FA)

Sent each time driver logs into the mobile app (user-initiated, most common message type)

Data Collection & Privacy

When verbal authorization is obtained for SMS communications, we collect and store:

  • Phone number (for message delivery)
  • Consent timestamp (when verbal authorization was confirmed)
  • Authorizing party information (broker/dispatcher who obtained consent)
  • Load reference (associated shipment)
  • Opt-out status (if STOP was received)
  • SMS delivery status (for troubleshooting)

Data Sharing Policy

Your data is NOT shared with third parties for marketing purposes.

Phone numbers and SMS data are used solely for operational purposes (delivering messages, authentication, account management). We do not sell, rent, or share personal information with marketing companies or data brokers. Data is only shared with:

  • Your freight broker (the company that invited you)
  • Twilio (our SMS service provider, for message delivery only)
  • As required by law or legal process

For complete information about our data practices, please review our Privacy Policy.

Legal Documents

For complete information about our policies and terms:

Note: SMS consent is separate from our general Terms and Conditions. Verbal authorization is obtained by your carrier/dispatcher before any SMS messages are sent. You retain the right to opt-out at any time by replying STOP.

Contact & Support

For questions about SMS consent or to request removal from our SMS communications:

Compliance & Standards

ARK TMS LLC complies with all applicable messaging regulations and industry standards:

  • TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act): We obtain verbal authorization through authorized agents (carriers/dispatchers), honor opt-out requests immediately, and maintain comprehensive consent and opt-out records with full audit trails.
  • CTIA Messaging Principles and Best Practices: We follow industry best practices for SMS consent collection, frequency limits, message content, and opt-out processing.
  • Verbal Consent via Authorized Agents: We utilize a B2B2C model where carriers and dispatchers act as authorized agents to obtain verbal consent from drivers before any SMS messages are sent. This follows standard logistics industry practice.
  • Consent Documentation: All verbal authorizations are logged with timestamp, authorizing party identification, driver phone number, and load reference. Records are retained for regulatory compliance (minimum 4 years).
  • Opt-Out Compliance: All STOP requests are processed immediately and permanently, with no further messages sent unless the driver explicitly re-subscribes by replying START or YES.
  • Operational Messages Only: No marketing or promotional messages are ever sent. All communications are strictly operational and directly related to the driver's work with the freight carrier.

Last updated: November 29, 2025

ARK TMS LLC | This page documents our SMS consent process for Twilio verification