Understanding Appointment Template Hierarchy

The appointment template system follows a defined hierarchy to determine how bookings are prioritized when multiple templates or rules apply to the same scenario. 

How the Hierarchy Works

1. Most Specific Rule Takes Priority
When multiple templates could apply, the system selects the one with the most specific conditions. Templates that target specific customers, ports, or time frames are prioritized over broader, more general templates.

2. Relative Timing Rules Take Precedence Over General Timing
Templates configured with relative timing settings—such as Relative to Last Free Day, Relative to Delivery Appointment, or Relative to Per Diem LFD—take precedence over templates using First Available Appointment.

3. Priority Time Slots Override Fallback Options
Templates that define Priority Booking will always attempt to secure those preferred time slots first. If the priority slot is unavailable, the system will then use Fallback Booking to ensure an appointment is still scheduled without delay.

Understanding this hierarchy ensures effective configuration and avoids unintended overrides during automated scheduling.

Summary of Rule Hierarchy