Benefits of Tracking & Appointments

Key Benefits of Automated Appointments and Container Tracking in PortPro

PortPro’s Automated Appointments and Container Tracking features are designed to enhance operational efficiency and provide greater visibility into port logistics. The key benefits include:

Appointment List

• Displays the status of upcoming pickup and return appointments

• Helps monitor scheduling accuracy and reduce delays in dispatch workflows

Appointment Settings

• Offers customization of booking logic and timing

• Supports alignment with specific operational requirements and preferences

Container Tracking Settings & Credentials

• Enables real-time container visibility through integrated port data connections

• Provides manual override options for increased flexibility and continuity in tracking

Together, these features streamline appointment scheduling and container tracking—improving response time, reducing manual effort, and enhancing overall coordination across teams.

Watch the video below for a complete walkthrough of setup and usage.

Appointment & Container Tracking Overview

PortPro’s Appointment and Container Tracking tools offer streamlined visibility and control over terminal interactions, container data, and scheduling workflows.

Appointment List

Displays the status of containers or loads with requested pickup or return appointments.

• Filter by appointment status for easier load management

• Pay special attention to items marked "Error", which may indicate:

  • Invalid SCAC codes

  • Appointments booked manually outside of PortPro

  • Other booking-related issues requiring review

Appointment Settings

Controls how automated appointments are configured and executed.

Available options include:

• Allowing appointment booking without a specific time request

• Enabling weekend appointment booking

• Allowing bookings even when terminal holds are present (where permitted)

Container Tracking Credentials

Supports the automated retrieval of container tracking data from integrated terminal systems.

• Requires valid credentials for each enabled port

• Use the pencil icon to update login information as needed

• Note: Once a port is enabled, it cannot be removed—only select port markets where operations are active

Container Tracking Settings

These settings provide greater flexibility in how container data is managed.

Manual Override of LFD and Container Status:

• When enabled, manually entered data for the Last Free Day (LFD) or container status will not be overwritten by automated tracking updates

• Preserves data from verified sources, such as terminal communications or customer confirmations

This is particularly useful when:

• Terminal data is delayed or temporarily unavailable

• More accurate information is received from trusted external sources

• Operational changes require timely manual updates not yet reflected in terminal systems

By enabling selective overrides, this feature ensures the accuracy and reliability of critical container details, especially in dynamic or time-sensitive scenarios.