Front-end data capture is the attempt to capture data closest to the point of its generation. This minimises data entry duplication and, therefore, decreases costs and data entry errors. The ideal point of data capture is with total integration with the generating system. Depending on the circumstances, sometimes this is not possible. This section describes the various ways to achieve data capture of freight details.

The actual method by which consignment note information is captured into the system is determined by the site requirements. Following are a number of simple pickup systems that can be integrated into depot lodgment:

Client Onsite Systems

Bulk Mail Pickup Sites

This system is used where a particular client generates sufficient freight to warrant an onsite system. EG: mailroom type applications whereby the customer weighs and processes their freight on an onsite computer. An onsite system is by far the best solution for your high volume clients. This implementation is covered by our Comet system.

There is no need for entirely different applications for different types of freight movements. Our advanced interfaces allow the easy configuration of input screens to fit most freighting situations. the onsite computer can ten print the connotes and email the details to the depot's mailbox and the freight is then picked up by a driver.

Adhoc Consignment Processing

Adhoc consignment printing is used for clients who provide less consistent freight or in smaller quantities. In this scenario, clients can make bookings through the internet or by phone.

For companies using consignment notes, the driver will arrive with pre-printed connotes and will write out the connote on a pre-printed connote using a hand-held scanner. The driver:

Internet Bookings

We can provide either onsite or hosted web booking solutions. Hosted Internet bookings provide a significant reduction in costs over running an internet server. The cost reductions are through lower communication costs, setup and maintenance costs and acquiring the technical know how.

Weigh Station Functions

Both the above approaches result in freight information being loaded into the depot PC. One method brings it in via a hand-held scanner, the other via email transfers. At the time the freight arrives in the depot the information should be lodged into the system. If the freight has not been previously weighed and cubed it can now move to the weigh stations.

Each weighing station is a PC connected to the LAN. Depending on rating and operational requirement the weigh station could incorporate a scanner, scales, a cubing device and a label printer.

Counter Lodgment

Over the counter lodgment is provided for walk in customers. It provides essentially the same functionality as the weigh station.