Table of Contents
1. Prerequisites
Before using the Automation Rules feature in LoadOps, ensure the following conditions are met:
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User Permissions: You must have administrative or load management permissions that allow access to automation rule configuration and load creation.
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Access to Load Creation Form: Ensure you have access to the load creation interface within LoadOps.
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Template File Available: At least one predefined load template must be created and available in the system for automation matching.
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Automation Rule Locations Created: All relevant origin and destination locations used in the automation rules must already exist in the system.
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Understanding of Time Differential Logic: Familiarity with how time differentials affect stop appointments is recommended for optimal rule configuration.
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Navigate to the Automation Rules Page
Log into LoadOps and click on the “Load” submenu in the left navigation bar. Select “Automation Rules” from the dropdown to access existing rules or create a new one.
Step 2: Click “Add Rule”
On the Automation Rules page, click the “+ Add Rule” button to start configuring your rule.
Step 3: Enter Rule Details
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Provide a Rule Name that clearly identifies the rule.
- Select a Customer
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Select at least two stop locations (origin and destination) that exist in your LoadOps system.
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Choose a template that includes these two locations and any additional data to be applied.
Step 4: Configure Template Mapping
The selected template may include:
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Additional intermediate stops (e.g., relays)
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Stop notes and dispatch notes
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Tags, rates, and invoice notes
These elements will be applied to matching loads automatically.
Step 5: Apply Time Differential Logic
When additional stops are included:
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The load creation appointment times serve as the anchors for additional stops.
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Stop appointments are set based on their relative time offset from preceding stops in the template.
Step 6: Save the Rule
Click “Save” to activate the rule. It will now apply when loads are created with matching stop locations automatically via tender or when using the Load Creation Form and selecting Apply Automation option from the Save button sub-options.
3. Visual Aids
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Load Submenu Navigation
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Creating a New Automation Rule
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Template Selection Panel
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Apply Automation Button
4. Tips and Best Practices
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Use Descriptive Rule Names for easy identification.
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Validate Locations before adding them to rules.
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Ensure Template Completeness with all necessary fields and stops.
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Test with Sample Loads to confirm rule behavior.
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Manage Time Differentials Carefully to avoid unrealistic appointments.
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Review Rules Periodically to keep them aligned with current workflows.
5. Troubleshooting
|
Issue |
Solution |
|---|---|
|
Rule not applying |
Ensure stop location names match exactly and “Apply Automation” is selected during load creation. |
|
Missing template or stop |
Verify template and stop location setup was complete. |
|
Incorrect appointment times |
Check time offsets in the template between stops. |
|
Missing template data |
Ensure template fields are correctly filled. |
|
Inaccessible rule |
Confirm permissions or contact admin. |
6. FAQs
Q: Can I create an automation rule with only one stop location?
A: No. A minimum of two stop locations is required.
Q: What happens if the template contains more stops?
A: They will be added, and appointments will use time differential logic.
Q: Can I reuse a template across rules?
A: Yes, if it meets the location requirements.
Q: What if I edit the template?
A: Changes will apply to new loads but not to previously created ones.
Q: Can I disable a rule?
A: No, rules can be deleted but not deactivated.