Shipping/Receiving Docks Move to On-line Scheduling

Web-based dock scheduling system saves companies time and money by reducing downtime and making the loading and unloading process more efficient.

Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) January 17, 2006 -- Technology has significantly improved the distribution industry by making it more efficient to get loads from point A to point B. One component of the logistics process, though, has received surprisingly little attention: The scheduling of specific times for pick-ups and drop-offs. A significant amount of time and money is wasted by trucks having to wait, sometimes for more than a day, to drop off or pick up a load. This has a financial impact on motor carriers and independent drivers - over 50% of drivers are owner-operators, and reduces efficiency for shippers and consignees.

Appointment-Plus (www.appointment-plus.com) has developed an internet-based logistics scheduling system that allows motor carriers, freight brokers, and/or freight forwarders to schedule delivery as their trucks near their destination. Since most drivers have Internet access in their trucks, checking availability and scheduling drop-offs and pick-ups significantly improves their ability to plan and helps optimize the use of their time. If they don’t have Internet access or if the consignee requires it, a driver or shipper can call into a dispatcher or central scheduler to set a specific loading or unloading time. This allows shippers, receivers, and freight providers to drastically reduce downtime.

“One of the primary causes of freight-based legal disputes in today’s transportation industry is the failure of shippers, consignees and carriers to effectively communicate to avoid downtime,” commented Ryan Kelly, Arizona transportation attorney and Arizona Trucking Association Executive Committee member.

Many shipping docks still use paper-based and PC-based systems for dock scheduling. But, the Web-based scheduling trend is catching on. “We have both small and large companies using Appointment-Plus for their incoming and outgoing dock scheduling. Many of them have multiple facilities. It’s amazing how quickly they have adopted the concept of on-line scheduling,” said Chuck Ritter, Chief Operating Officer.

For additional information on how to reduce downtime and organize dock scheduling, go to www.appointment-plus.com. Appointment-Plus is completely Web-based and is available for $29 per month for each dock location. Because there is no software to install, companies can start using the system immediately upon signing up. Appointment-Plus comes with a free 30 day trial.

About Appointment-Plus:
Appointment-Plus has been one of the Internet’s leading online scheduling service providers since 2001, serving over 30 industries both in the U.S. and abroad.

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