KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- New technology is helping Kansas City's dreams of becoming a major, inland port move ahead.

KMBC's Jere Gish reported that officials tested an intelligent transportation systems technology feature on a truck Thursday. The system allows satellites and cell phones to keep tabs on trucks during the 15-hour trip to Mexico.

"This is being done in conjunction with the opening of the Mexican customs office here in Kansas City. The intent being to satisfy the needs of Mexican customs on goods being placed in bond here in Kansas City, so they do in fact make it to the border without being tampered with," KC Smartport's Ken Hoffman said.

Gish reported that with the technology, trucks can be tracked almost simultaneously. Every two minutes they'll know exactly where a truck is.

The goal is to operate securely without losing productivity, Gish reported. It could lead to big things in the future.

"We look to be able to bring goods from China directly into the heartland without going into the coastal ports," Hoffman said.

"This means jobs for Kansas City, a lot of jobs for Kansas City," City Councilmember Bonnie Sue Cooper said.

Gish reported that there are more tests scheduled for the upcoming weeks and months. Officials hope it will become a model for other ports around the country.