Appointment Templates Rule Based Automation

How to set rules that automatically trigger a template, like in the Tariff → Charge Set setup. 

Rule-Based Automation in Appointment Templates

Custom rules can be applied to appointment templates to control when automation is triggered. This functionality is similar to the Tariff → Charge Set configuration and allows for advanced control over automated scheduling based on operational needs.

Toggling Background Mode to execute the automation:

Enabling Background Mode allows the rule-based automation to run without dispatcher intervention. Once the defined criteria are met, the system automatically executes the template and attempts to book the appointment.

Dropdown selections and filters are available to fine-tune the automation logic.

Fine-Tuning Rules with Logical Operators

Rule logic can be defined using common operators to build flexible and complex conditions:

• AND – All conditions must be met for the rule to trigger.

• OR – Any one condition being true will trigger the rule.

• NOT – Excludes a specific condition from triggering the rule.

• Add Group – Used to layer multiple sets of conditions for advanced scenarios.

Dropdown menus in the rule builder provide various criteria options to support standard operating procedures and streamline workflow automation.

Key Considerations

• If no rules are specified, the template will apply to all eligible appointments when applied manually.

• Background mode is most effective for high-volume customers or standardized operations.

• For teams with diverse or variable appointment needs, careful configuration is essential to prevent unintended bookings.

• In the event of conflicting automated templates:

  • The more specific rule takes precedence.

  • If equally specific, the most recently created template is applied.

Use Case Examples

• Customer-specific automation rules

• Templates based on container type

• Port-specific appointment workflows

• Load type or status-driven templates

Relative Appointment Timing Options

Automation can also incorporate shipment milestone timing to control booking windows:

• Schedule appointments one day before a scheduled delivery

• Book return appointments based on the container’s “ready to return” status

• Prioritize the first available appointment slot for faster turnaround