UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA, INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160005034 | ENCRYPTION AND TOKENIZATION ARCHITECTURES - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods, systems and computer program products for conducting an online transaction on a website involving sensitive information. Such embodiments provide methods, systems and computer program products to: (a) register at least one entity with a gate keeper module, the registering comprising associating the entity with a subscription level; (b) associate a sub-string of a character string with a unique token so that a direct link does not exist between the unique token and the character string; and (c) during processing of the online transaction: (i) using the unique token for intermediate steps during the processing of the online transaction; and (ii) only accessing the character string in storage memory to complete the online transaction after receiving a request from at least one registered entity associated with a subscription level associated with a privilege to receive the requested sensitive information. | 01-07-2016 |
20150332421 | CONCEPTS FOR GUARANTEEING ADDED VALUE - Various embodiments are directed to concepts for providing a guaranteed added value to a potential customer. According to various embodiments, a vendor of products and/or services may obtain customer data comprising data regarding the sought out products or services to be provided by the vendor. The vendor may identify one or more products and/or services to be offered to the potential customer, and generate a proposal to be presented to the potential customer, wherein the proposal comprises a guaranteed added value. After implementing the one or more products and/or services, the vendor may monitor the provided products and/or services to determine the added value realized by the potential customer that is at least in part attributable to the provided products and/or services. If the added value realized by the potential customer is less than the guaranteed added value, the vendor may reimburse the potential customer for the difference. | 11-19-2015 |
20150332207 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR CONSOLIDATED IDENTIFICATION AND ENGAGEMENT OF ON-DEMAND PACKAGING CUSTOMERS - Various embodiments provide systems, methods, and computer program products for dynamically identifying and engaging at least one on-demand packaging customer in a consolidated fashion. The system comprises one or more computer processors configured to: receive qualification data associated with at least one customer; calculate whether the at least one customer is a qualified customer; in response to identifying the qualified customer, determine whether the qualified customer is a targeted customer; in response to identifying the targeted customer, evaluate a readiness of at least one facility operated by the targeted customer for engagement of an on-demand packaging configuration; in response to determining a positive facility readiness, generate one or more documents for execution by at least the targeted customer, the carrier, and the supplier; and upon execution of the one or more documents, facilitate implementation of the on-demand packaging configuration at the at least one facility. | 11-19-2015 |
20150269536 | CONCEPTS FOR REPAIR, SERVICE, PURCHASE, SALE OR TRADE-IN OF ITEMS - Embodiments of the present invention provide a repair or purchase program that may be associated with a common carrier. In various embodiments, one or more bids for a target item are received prior to receiving a listing for an item. After receiving the listing for the item, one or more relevant bids may be identified. Information associated with at least one of the identified bids may be provided. A user selection of one of the identified bids may be received. Completion of the transaction indicated by the user's selection may be facilitated. Associated methods, systems, and computer program products are provided. | 09-24-2015 |
20150269535 | CONCEPTS FOR REPAIR, SERVICE, PURCHASE, SALE OR TRADE-IN OF ITEMS - Embodiments of the present invention provide a repair or purchase program that may be associated with a common carrier. In various embodiments, one or more bids for a target item are received prior to receiving a listing for an item. After receiving the listing for the item, one or more relevant bids may be identified. Information associated with at least one of the identified bids may be provided. A user selection of one of the identified bids may be received. Completion of the transaction indicated by the user's selection may be facilitated. Associated methods, systems, and computer program products are provided. | 09-24-2015 |
20150269514 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PROACTIVE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE SERVICES FOR PACKAGES POTENTIALLY CONTAINING REGULATED GOODS AND BEING TRANSPORTED IN A PACKAGE DELIVERY NETWORK - Various embodiments provide systems, methods, and computer program products for dynamically monitoring transport of a plurality of packages potentially containing regulated goods so as to ensure compliance with one or more regulations within a plurality of jurisdictions. The embodiments utilize one or more computer processors or one or more executable portions to: receive transport data associated with the transport of at least one of the plurality of packages and regulatory data associated with the at least one jurisdiction in which transport occurs; determine whether the one of the plurality of packages contains at least one regulated good; if the presence of at least one regulated good is determined, validate consignor data and the transport data; whereby in response to an unsuccessful validation, at least one report is generated to prevent or otherwise mitigate transport of the one of the plurality of packages in the at least one identified jurisdiction. | 09-24-2015 |
20150262348 | CONCEPTS FOR SORTING ITEMS USING A DISPLAY - Concepts for presenting display features to a user of a system which comprises a display, an acquisition device, and a controller system. In various embodiments, the acquisition device is configured to capture image data of one or more items moving along a conveying mechanism and read item identifiers associated with each item. The system then associates or identifies display features with each item identifier and presents the captured image data with the display features presented on or near the image data of the items. | 09-17-2015 |
20150254604 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR PROVIDING REAL-TIME VALIDATION OF CONTAINER LOADING AND POSITIONING DATA - Various embodiments provide systems, methods, and computer program products for providing dynamic real-time verification and validation of data associated with the receiving, loading, and positioning of a plurality of containers upon a transport vehicle. One or more computer processors are configured to: receive actual load data associated with at least one container; retrieve at least a portion of expected load data associated with the container for which actual load data has been received; verify the actual weight of the one of the plurality of packages and in response to a successful verification identifying no load weight discrepancies, validate the actual load position of the one of the plurality of packages. In response to a successful validation, at least one communication configured to facilitate at least one of further loading of the plurality of packages may be generated. If validation is unsuccessful, further loading may be prevented. | 09-10-2015 |
20150235287 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR ENABLING OUTCOME-BASED SERVICE CYCLE MANAGEMENT - Various embodiments provide a service cycle management system configured to: receive a first portion of input data comprising one or more requests from one or more holders of an asset; retrieve a second portion of the input data comprising one or more parameters associated with handling of the asset within the reverse cycle loop; calculate one or more optimal service tasks for handling of the asset based at least in part upon the service data and the one or more parameters defined by the holder; calculate one or more optimal service providers to perform the one or more optimal service tasks based at least in part upon the provider data, the one or more calculated optimal service tasks, and the one or more parameters defined by the holder. Associated computer program products and computer implemented methods are also provided. | 08-20-2015 |
20150235171 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR PROVIDING INTELLIGENT VISIBILITY ACROSS AN OUTCOME-BASED SERVICE CYCLE INFRASTRUCTURE - Various embodiments provide a service cycle management system for intelligently evaluating one or more parameters of a reverse service cycle loop within a supply chain management infrastructure. The system comprises one or more processors configured to: receive the real-time data comprising one or more parameters associated with execution of one or more service tasks; retrieve the simulation data from the one or more memory storage areas; dynamically compare one or more parameters within the real-time data against corresponding one or more parameters within the simulation data to identify one or more discrepancies there-between; in response to identifying one or more discrepancies, and generating one or more representations thereof, so as to inform one or more users of the system of one or more areas for focusing future initiatives. Associated computer program products and computer implemented methods are also provided. | 08-20-2015 |
20150121147 | METHODS, APPARATUSES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR BULK ASSIGNING TESTS FOR EXECUTION OF APPLICATIONS - An apparatus is provided for facilitating bulk assignment of test cases to a test cycle. The apparatus may include at least one memory and at least one processor configured to enable selection, via a user interface, of test cases to assign the test cases to a designated test cycle. The test cases are designated for testing or execution of functions of at least one application. The processor is also configured to automatically calculate an estimated duration of time in which to complete the testing or execution of the functions in response to receipt of indications of selections of the test cases via the user interface. The processor is also configured to provide visible indicia in the user interface indicating the estimated duration of time in which to complete the testing or the execution of the functions of the application. Corresponding computer program products and methods are also provided. | 04-30-2015 |
20150100514 | Customer Controlled Management of Shipments - Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, customers can define handling identifiers to determine how items should be handled based on the handling identifier. Further, customers can define refund classifications to determine when refunds should be initiated. | 04-09-2015 |
20150100513 | Customer Controlled Management of Shipments - Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, customers can define handling identifiers to determine how items should be handled based on the handling identifier. Further, customers can define refund classifications to determine when refunds should be initiated. | 04-09-2015 |
20150081587 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery or pickup attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered or picked up in accordance with an automatic service schedule. | 03-19-2015 |
20150066752 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR PROVIDING INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF RETURNS INITIATED OVER A NETWORK - Various embodiments provide an online returns management system for facilitating a carrier acquiring a credit amount due for transporting to a supplier one or more items. The system comprises one or more computer processors configured to: assign a tracking identifier to at least one return request, the tracking identifier being associated further with existing order data and being configured for tracking shipment of the one or more items; generate an electronic shipping label configured for use by at least one carrier to facilitate transport of the one or more items to the supplier. The computer processors are further configured to determine a transit status for the one or more items based upon received tracking data; and in response to delivery of the one or more items, generate one or more notifications of a credit amount due the carrier. Associated methods and computer program products are also provided. | 03-05-2015 |
20150039347 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PROACTIVE MONITORING, INTERVENTION, AND INSURANCE COVERAGE SERVICES IN A PACKAGE DELIVERY NETWORK - Various embodiments provide a system for proactively managing intervention activities associated with the delivery of at least one package and the settlement of costs incurred thereby. The system comprises one or more computer processors configured to receive new PLD data, the new PLD comprising at least an indication of a jeopardy delivery condition triggering the predefined condition associated with and impacting the delivery of the at least one package; determine and identify one of the one or more actions to be taken by the service provider in response to the jeopardy delivery condition, the determination and identification being based at least in part upon a portion of the intervention data; receive an indication of costs incurred due to the identified action being taken; and in response to receiving the indication, determine an appropriate settlement procedure for the costs, the determination being based at least in part upon the insurance data. | 02-05-2015 |
20140279668 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RETURNING ITEMS TO ATTENDED DELIVERY/PICKUP LOCATIONS - A computer system for facilitating the return of one or more items from a particular retailer to a particular attended delivery/pickup location is described. In various embodiments, the system is configured for: 1) receiving a request from a particular user to return for an at least partial refund a particular item purchased from the particular retailer; 2) confirming (e.g., automatically) that the particular retailer will accept the particular item for the at least partial refund; and 3) facilitating the return of the particular item in any number of ways including, for example, shipping the particular item back to the particular retailer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279658 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF SUGGESTING ATTENDED DELIVERY/PICKUP LOCATIONS - A computer system for suggesting attended delivery/pickup locations to individuals (e.g., other than the individual's home and/or office) is disclosed. In various embodiments, the computer system receives location information associated with the individual (e.g., the individual's home, office, etc.) and the locations of various attended delivery/pickup locations (e.g., attended retail stores that have signed up to receive deliveries for individuals). The system determines which (if any) attended delivery/pickup locations are located near the location associated with the individual (e.g., near the individual's home) and which (if any) attended delivery/pickup locations are available to accept parcels for the user. The system then suggests attended delivery/pickup locations to the individual. In various embodiments, the system is configured to enable the user to select a default attended delivery/pickup location and/or an alternative attended delivery/pickup location. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279650 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF MANAGING SIGNATURES OF DOCUMENTS - Systems and methods for facilitating the signature of documents. In various embodiments the system is configured to manage the transportation of the documents among users whose signature is required on the documents. The documents may include, for example, legal documents. In particular embodiments, the system is configured to deliver the documents to attended delivery/pickup locations associated with each user required to sign the document, facilitate each user's signature of the documents at the associated attended delivery/pickup location, and deliver the document to an end destination. The ultimate destination of the document may include an address associated with a user requesting signature of the document, or any other suitable location. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279300 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR IMPLEMENTING A PRECISION RATE STRUCTURE ACROSS ONE OR MORE GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS - Various embodiments provide a rate structuring system for determining a rate adjustment for at least one service point within a geographical area. In certain embodiments, the system comprises one or more computer processors configured to: receive service point data comprising one or more real-time observed characteristics associated with delivery of at least one package to one or more of said at least one service points within said geographical area; retrieve rate data; calculate at least one of cost data and profit data for each service point associated with said received service point data; compare said calculated cost/profit data against one or more parameters; and in response to at least a portion of said calculated data differing from said one or more parameters, generate rate adjustment instructions, said instructions being configured for implementation of an adjustment to said rate data. Associated computer program products and computer implemented methods are also provided. | 09-18-2014 |
20140278637 | MONITORING RECURRING ACTIVITIES - Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for monitoring recurring activities. In one embodiment, activity data and work data can be analyzed to identify segments of inactivity during work segments. The inactivity segments can then be provided for an interface for display. | 09-18-2014 |
20140278101 | CONCEPTS FOR DEFINING TRAVEL PATHS IN PARKING AREAS - Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for defining travel paths in parking areas. In one embodiment, travel paths in parking areas can be defined by connecting street networking connection points within the parking areas. In another embodiment, such defined travel paths can be merged with actual paths traveled by vehicles in the parking areas. | 09-18-2014 |
20140278096 | CONCEPTS FOR DEFINING TRAVEL PATHS IN PARKING AREAS - Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for defining travel paths in parking areas. In one embodiment, travel paths in parking areas can be defined by connecting street networking connection points within the parking areas. In another embodiment, such defined travel paths can be merged with actual paths traveled by vehicles in the parking areas. | 09-18-2014 |
20140257691 | AUGMENTATION FOR GPS CALCULATIONS - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and computer program products for providing improved augmentation for GPS calculations. In general, various embodiments of the invention involve using a plurality of GPS devices associated with stationary objects associated with a common carrier's delivery network and the common carrier's delivery fleet to calculate error corrections and to communicate these error corrections to a number of GPS enable devices to be used by these devices to augment GPS calculations to correct errors associated with GPS signals. Further, various embodiments of the invention involve collecting GPS data for a plurality of delivery routes traveled by the common carrier's delivery fleet. In particular embodiments, this collected data may be used to provide more accurate address information for locations along these delivery routes and more accurate renderings of various landscapes along these delivery routes. | 09-11-2014 |
20140257690 | AUGMENTATION FOR GPS CALCULATIONS - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and computer program products for providing improved augmentation for GPS calculations. In general, various embodiments of the invention involve using a plurality of GPS devices associated with stationary objects associated with a common carrier's delivery network and the common carrier's delivery fleet to calculate error corrections and to communicate these error corrections to a number of GPS enable devices to be used by these devices to augment GPS calculations to correct errors associated with GPS signals. Further, various embodiments of the invention involve collecting GPS data for a plurality of delivery routes traveled by the common carrier's delivery fleet. In particular embodiments, this collected data may be used to provide more accurate address information for locations along these delivery routes and more accurate renderings of various landscapes along these delivery routes. | 09-11-2014 |
20140256266 | SYMBIOTIC SYSTEM FOR TESTING ELECTROMAGNETIC SIGNAL COVERAGE IN AREAS NEAR TRANSPORT ROUTES - A cooperative system for testing signal strength near a target area selected by a wireless provider is disclosed, using test units installed in the fleet vehicles of an unrelated service enterprise. The system in one embodiment includes an algorithm for comparing test parameters to the route data contained in the dispatch plan for the fleet vehicles, in order to identify the optimal routes on which to send test units. A computer software product for storing the parameters and executing the algorithms is also disclosed. Signal testing in a target area is accomplished through the symbiotic relationship between the testing units and the fleet vehicles, whereby the wireless provider benefits from unit carriage along routes already being traveled by the fleet vehicles for a different purpose. This Abstract is provided quickly inform a reader about the subject matter, and not for use interpreting the scope or meaning of the claims. | 09-11-2014 |
20140250537 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR DATA GOVERNANCE AND LICENSING - Various embodiments provide a data governance and licensing system for monitoring usage of tracking data associated with transport of a plurality of packages and for facilitating licensing arrangements in connection therewith. In certain embodiments, the system comprises: one or more memory storage areas containing a variety of data and one or more computer processors. The one or more computer processors are configured to: receive observed data associated with access of tracking data by at least one accessing party; analyze at least a portion of the observed data to determine identification data for the accessing party; compare the identification data and the authorized user data to determine whether the accessing party is an authorized party; determine whether one or more discrepancies exist between the observed data and either generic usage data or authorized user data; and if so, generate either a license proposal or a license revision request. | 09-04-2014 |
20140250027 | Tracking information display systems and related methods - A tracking information display system is described. The tracking information system detects a tracking number on a webpage and displays tracking information associated with the tracking number, regardless of which common carrier may be associated with the tracking number. | 09-04-2014 |
20140222711 | Systems and Methods for Parcel Delivery to Alternate Delivery Locations - A system, in various embodiments, is configured to redirect undeliverable parcels to alternate delivery locations. The parcels may be undeliverable due to an unavailability of an intended recipient of the parcels to sign for the parcels or otherwise take delivery of the parcels at the delivery address. The system may be configured to determine a suitable alternate delivery location based at least in part on: one or more parcel recipient preferences, one or more parcel shipper preferences, a location of the delivery address, etc. The system may be further configured to notify the parcel recipient of a redirection of the parcel to the alternate delivery address. | 08-07-2014 |
20140207702 | COMPUTER SYSTEM FOR ROUTNG PACKAGE DELIVERIES - A shipping system for shipping packages involving the coordinated use of at least a first carrier and a second carrier. The shipping system includes physical delivery facilities for the physical delivery of packages, the physical delivery facilities including at least one transfer location at which the second carrier may take over delivery responsibilities for a package. | 07-24-2014 |
20140207701 | COMPUTER SYSTEM FOR ROUTING PACKAGE DELIVERIES - A shipping system for shipping packages involving the coordinated use of at least a first carrier and a second carrier. The shipping system includes physical delivery facilities for the physical delivery of packages, the physical delivery facilities including at least one transfer location at which the second carrier may take over delivery responsibilities for a package. | 07-24-2014 |
20140188753 | OVERLAPPING GEOGRAPHIC AREAS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for identifying overlapping areas. For example, in one embodiment, telematics data can be collected as vehicles traverse various geographic areas. Then, the areas traversed by the vehicles can be displayed to identify overlapping areas. | 07-03-2014 |
20140188546 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A REAL-TIME WORKFLOW PLATFORM - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for enabling design, generation, and execution of real-time workflows. Such embodiments provide a graphical designer including a plurality of shapes representing the various objects of a workflow that are used to model the workflow. In addition, various embodiments of the graphical designer provide shapes to model aspects of the workflow not found in previous graphical designers. Various embodiments also provide a code generator that converts the representation of the workflow into executable code for multiple target languages. Various embodiments also provide a workflow engine based on a Petri net model responsible for executing the workflow and for delegating tasks to be performed for the workflow to an operating system. In various embodiments, the workflow engine further includes a platform abstraction layer that provides a transition layer from the Petri net language to the operating system language. | 07-03-2014 |
20140188533 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING OPERATIONAL DATA FOR A VEHICLE FLEET - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management system configured for capturing and evaluating vehicle telematics data, such as data captured from one or more vehicle telematics devices indicative of one or more vehicle dynamics, and service data, such as data captured from one or more portable data acquisition devices indicative of one or more service dynamics. In certain embodiments, the fleet management system is configured to associate captured vehicle telematics data with captured service data based on the contextual attributes of each, such as the time, date, and location of data capture. By synching the vehicle telematics data to the service data, the operational data can be uniquely assessed for various operational efficiencies. | 07-03-2014 |
20140180959 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERY OF AN ITEM - Generally, embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods that can identify the location of a consignee and propose one or more alternative delivery location(s). The proposed delivery location may be based on the current location of the consignee, current address on the package to be delivered, information located in a social network (private or public), “to-be” location as determined by the consignee which would be transmitted to the carrier and/or a predicted consignee location. In other embodiments, the consignee or “carrier” may suggest an alternative fixed location or alternative mobile location. In some embodiments, the consignee may indicate an alternative recipient of the item. | 06-26-2014 |
20140164250 | ENCRYPTION AND TOKENIZATION ARCHITECTURES - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods, systems and computer program products for conducting an online transaction on a website involving sensitive information. Such embodiments provide methods, systems and computer program products to: (a) register at least one entity with a gate keeper module, the registering comprising associating the entity with a subscription level; (b) associate a sub-string of a character string with a unique token so that a direct link does not exist between the unique token and the character string; and (c) during processing of the online transaction: (i) using the unique token for intermediate steps during the processing of the online transaction; and (ii) only accessing the character string in storage memory to complete the online transaction after receiving a request from at least one registered entity associated with a subscription level associated with a privilege to receive the requested sensitive information. | 06-12-2014 |
20140164230 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR A COLLECTION ON DELIVERY DELAYED DEPOSIT SERVICE - Various embodiments provide systems for providing a delayed deposit collection on delivery (COD) option to a customer. The system may comprise one or more computer processors configured to: (a) receive a portion of payment data and package data; (b) receive an indication of a payment deposit parameter; (c) associate the payment deposit parameter with the payment data; (d) compare the payment deposit parameter to a default deposit parameter; (e) calculate a payment deposit date based at least in part on the comparison and at least a portion of the package data comprising delivery data; (f) facilitate depositing the payment mechanism on the calculated payment deposit date; and (g) automatically re-present the payment mechanism if an error occurs during the depositing of the payment mechanism. Associated computer program products and computer-implemented methods are also provided. | 06-12-2014 |
20140156062 | METHOD & SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING A PACKAGE PRE-LOAD OPERATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH A DISPATCH PLAN - The present invention provides systems and methods for electronically-capturing a destination address of a package and for using the destination address to automate a package pre-load operation. An embodiment of the invention includes a compression system for compressing the destination address as a compressed MaxiCode symbol, a smart shipping label system for generating a shipping label with a compressed MaxiCode and a pre-load assist system for generating package handling instructions from the electronically-captured destination address. | 06-05-2014 |
20140151072 | SUPPRESSING A FIRE CONDITION IN AN AIRCRAFT - Various concepts are provided for suppressing a fire condition in an aircraft. In one embodiment, the presence of a fire condition in an aircraft is detected. After such a detection, extinguishing agents can be dispensed and/or certain areas of the aircraft can be depressurized. | 06-05-2014 |
20140143171 | ENHANCED LOCATION INFORMATION FOR POINTS OF INTEREST - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for identifying a serviceable address that is associated with a street network connection point and a parcel drop-off point. For example, in one embodiment, the serviceable address may be associated with a street network connection point that is part of a digital map. The serviceable address may also be associated with a parcel drop-off point that includes parcel drop-off point information, such as a parcel drop-off point geo coordinate associated with the parcel drop-off point and street network connection point geo coordinate associated with the street network connection point. | 05-22-2014 |
20140122368 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR A SHIPPING APPLICATION HAVING AN AUTOMATED TRIGGER TERM TOOL - Various embodiments provide a shipping request system for dynamically identifying one or more restricted items within shipping requests. The system comprises: one or more memory storage areas containing data and one or more computer processors. The computer processors are configured to: receive input content data comprising one or more terms descriptive of one or more items for which shipment is requested, and retrieve trigger data from the one or more memory storage areas, the trigger data being associated with one or more terms related to one or more restrictions placed upon shipment of an item. The input content data is then dynamically compared against the trigger data to identify one or more correlations indicative of the presence of one or more restricted items. If correlations are identified, further shipment request processing is prevented; otherwise processing may continue. Associated computer program products and computer implemented methods are also provided. | 05-01-2014 |
20140121959 | ENHANCED LOCATION INFORMATION FOR POINTS OF INTEREST - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for identifying a serviceable address that is associated with a street network connection point and an actual location point. For example, in one embodiment, the serviceable address may be associated with a street network connection point that is part of a digital map. The serviceable address may also be associated with an actual location point, such as a parcel drop-off point. | 05-01-2014 |
20140121958 | GEOFENCE-BASED TRIGGERS FOR AUTOMATED DATA COLLECTION - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for automated data collection using geofence-based triggers. In one embodiment, the location of a vehicle can be monitored by a variety of computing entities. By using the vehicle's location, it can be determined when the vehicle enters and/or exits defined geofences. After a determination that a vehicle has entered or exited a defined geofence, one or more events can be automatically triggered/initiated. | 05-01-2014 |
20140121957 | GEOFENCE-BASED TRIGGERS FOR AUTOMATED DATA COLLECTION - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for automated data collection using geofence-based triggers. In one embodiment, the location of a vehicle can be monitored by a variety of computing entities. By using the vehicle's location, it can be determined when the vehicle enters and/or exits defined geofences. After a determination that a vehicle has entered or exited a defined geofence, one or more events can be automatically triggered/initiated. | 05-01-2014 |
20140114718 | METHODS, APPARATUSES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR AUTOMATING ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES - An apparatus is provided for facilitating automated arrival and departure events at a facility. The apparatus may include at least one memory and at least one processor configured to receive an indication identifying one or more loads of a vehicle in response to the vehicle arriving at a facility. The processor is further configured to automatically assign the loads of the vehicle to one or more respective storage locations of the facility in response to receipt of the indication. The processor is further configured to enable provision of another indication to a communication device associated with the vehicle indicating the respective storage locations to place the corresponding loads. Corresponding computer program products and methods are also provided. | 04-24-2014 |
20140104036 | CONCEPTS FOR ASSET IDENTIFICATION - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for identifying assets (e.g., mobile assets and/or personnel assets). In one embodiment, a mobile asset can be uniquely identified from RFID tags. In another embodiment, mobile assets and personnel assets can be identified from captured image data. After identification, it can be determined whether the asset (e.g., mobile asset and/or personnel asset) is authorized for one or more activities and a corresponding perceivable indication can be generated. | 04-17-2014 |
20140104035 | CONCEPTS FOR ASSET IDENTIFICATION - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for identifying assets (e.g., mobile assets and/or personnel assets). In one embodiment, a mobile asset can be uniquely identified from RFID tags. In another embodiment, mobile assets and personnel assets can be identified from captured image data. After identification, it can be determined whether the asset (e.g., mobile asset and/or personnel asset) is authorized for one or more activities and a corresponding perceivable indication can be generated. | 04-17-2014 |
20140100812 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATING ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS OF SHIPPING SYSTEMS - According to various embodiments, package evaluation systems and methods are provided for evaluating the sustainability of packaging used in the shipment of goods. In particular, the package evaluation systems and methods are configured for performing package evaluations and managing and providing access to data resulting from package evaluations. The package evaluations are designed to assess, among other things, the ability of sample packages to prevent damage to their contents, the volumetric efficiency of sample packages, and the sustainability of the materials used to construct sample packages. In addition, the systems and methods are further configured for assigning a certification to an entity associated with the evaluated packages based on the results of the evaluation. | 04-10-2014 |
20140059666 | METHODS, APPARATUSES & COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR UTILIZING VISUAL AUTHENTICATION TOKENS AS CROSS-PLATFORM CREDENTIALS - An apparatus is provided for facilitating cross-platform authentication. The apparatus may include at least one memory and at least one processor configured to detect that a visual token includes data indicating one or more authentication credentials for accessing a communication device in response to scanning the visual token. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to communicate the authentication credentials of the detected visual token to the communication device to request the communication device to determine whether the authentication credentials are valid for a user. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to enable access to the communication device in response to receiving an indication from the communication device that the authentication credentials of the detected visual token are valid. Corresponding computer program products and methods are also provided. | 02-27-2014 |
20140052412 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING A TRANSPORTING INSTRUCTION USING AN ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR - A system including an environmental sensor that can travel with a product within a carrier's logistics network. The environmental sensor being configured to sense an environmental condition capable of affecting the product to generate product environment data. The system includes a scanner configured to read product environment data from the environmental sensor. The system also includes a hub control unit configured to communicate with the scanner and receive the product environment data from the scanner and determine whether the product environment data enters into a pre-defined range of values associated with an exposure of the product to an environmental condition. The hub control unit is also configured to generate alert data if it is determined that the environmental data has entered the range of values. If a limit within the values is further transcended, a transportation instruction is also generated to alter transport of the product. | 02-20-2014 |
20140025566 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR A COLLECTION ON DELIVERY DELAYED DEPOSIT SERVICE - Various embodiments provide systems for providing a delayed deposit collection on delivery (COD) option to a customer. The system may comprise one or more storage areas containing customer profile data, payment data, package data, and parameter data, such as a default deposit parameter. The system may further comprise one or more computer processors configured to: (a) receive a portion of the payment data and the package data; (b) receive an indication of a payment deposit parameter; (c) associate the payment deposit parameter with the payment data; (d) compare the payment deposit parameter to the default deposit parameter; (e) calculate a payment deposit date based at least in part on the comparison and at least a portion of the package data comprising delivery data; (f) and facilitate depositing the payment mechanism on the calculated payment deposit date. Associated computer program products and computer-implemented methods are also provided. | 01-23-2014 |
20140025464 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER-PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR DETERMINING SHIPPING INCENTIVES - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and computer-program products for determining shipping incentives. In general, various embodiments of the invention involve applying a shipping incentive for a customer receiving inbound shipments from a plurality of parties based on increased inbound shipments received from such parties. Additional embodiments of the invention involve applying a shipping incentive to at least one customer based on increased shipments shipped to and/or received in a locale for a particular time period using a common carrier. In particular embodiments, the incentive may be a discount on a cost of shipping for the customer. In other embodiments, the incentive may be something else such as a preferred shipping service for the customer. | 01-23-2014 |
20140012553 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AGGREGATING AND EVALUATING ENVIRONMENTAL DATA - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an environmental impact analysis system configured for providing a graphical user interface for displaying a plurality of user consumption inquiries soliciting user input relating to user consumption of one or more resources; receiving user input comprising user consumption data responsive to one or more of the user consumption inquiries; displaying one or more impact reduction goals representing potential user actions that would result in a lesser environmental footprint; and receiving user input comprising goal completion data indicating user completion of one or more of the impact reduction goals. Various embodiments of the system are further configured to determine user impact values indicative of the environmental footprint resulting from user consumption of the one or more resources, and to determine revised user impact values indicative of the user's reduced environmental footprint due to completed impact reduction goals. | 01-09-2014 |
20130345036 | GARMENT BOX - Various embodiments provide a method for making a garment box insert. The method comprises the steps of performing a plurality of folding actions upon a first side wall, a second side wall, a third side wall, and a fourth side wall so as to form a container portion. Extended flap portions and fold-over panels are further provided and folded so as to enclose and define the container portion. A first walled enclosure portion is further formed by performing steps of folding the second and first fold-over panels such that an elongate slot and at least to apertures are appropriately aligned. The method concludes with inserting one or more tabs of the first walled enclosure portion into one or more oval slots in the first side wall, so as to selectively secure the first walled portion relative to the first side wall during use. | 12-26-2013 |
20130335777 | INTEGRATED TASK MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EXECUTING RULE-BASED OPERATIONS - A system for integrating multiple software modules configured to produce output according to established business rules is provided. The system in one embodiment coordinates the printing of a variety of labels and reports according to a set of complex business rules. Complex output tasks may be distributed to remote computers in a network for optimum efficiency. The system may be configured to comply with one or more standard database connectivity standards in order to provide a generic interface with foreign systems. The method in one embodiment includes acquiring an input, sending a query to a database, retrieving business rules and associated tasks, and building scripts or commands for each task. | 12-19-2013 |
20130297457 | TRANSFERABLE SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for transferable shipments. For example, in various embodiments, items being transported by a carrier can be re-routed after shipment from the consumer who originally purchased the item to another consumer. | 11-07-2013 |
20130284800 | ARRANGING FOR SHIPMENT OF A PACKAGE WITHOUT GENERATING A SHIPPING LABEL - Methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products are provided for arranging for shipping a package without the customer needing to generate or apply a shipping label, or any other information, to the package. In one embodiment, a system may comprise a carrier server and a carrier device. The carrier server may receive and store a smart code and shipping information associated with the package, which it may link together. The carrier device may capture the smart code from the package and send a request, including the smart code, to the carrier server for related shipping information. The carrier server may receive the request from the carrier device, retrieve the shipping information based on the smart code, and send the shipping information to the carrier device. The carrier device may receive the shipping information and generate a shipping label for the package based on the shipping information. | 10-31-2013 |
20130281133 | OVERLAPPING GEOGRAPHIC AREAS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for identifying overlapping areas. For example, in one embodiment, telematics data can be collected as vehicles traverse various geographic areas. Then, the areas traversed by the vehicles can be displayed to identify overlapping areas. | 10-24-2013 |
20130218446 | METHODS, APPARATUSES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR MEASURING VEHICLE CARBON FOOTPRINT - Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are provided for determining carbon emissions of one or more vehicles. For instance, in one example embodiment, an apparatus may calculate miles traveled by the vehicles along a predefined route and may calculate a fuel usage of the vehicles for traveling along the route to obtain one or more fuel values. The apparatus may also analyze data indicating the miles traveled and the fuel values to determine fuel efficiency values corresponding to the vehicles traveling the route. The apparatus may also determine an estimate of an amount of carbon emissions for each of the vehicles based in part on applying at least one carbon emission value to respective fuel values associated with corresponding determined fuel efficiency values. | 08-22-2013 |
20130212036 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 08-15-2013 |
20130204803 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INITIATING RETURNS OVER A NETWORK - The present invention provides systems and methods for processing return transactions over a network. An embodiment of the invention discloses an online return application that generates an electronic return shipping label that can be delivered to a browser of a customer that wishes to make a return. Also, disclosed is the creation and transmission of label delivery links, which provide for dynamic generation and delivery of shipping labels. | 08-08-2013 |
20130198100 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197776 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR UTILIZING TELEMATICS DATA TO IMPROVE FLEET MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS - According to various embodiments, a fleet management system is provided for capturing, storing, and analyzing telematics data to improve fleet management operations. The fleet management system may be used, for example, by a shipping entity (e.g., a common carrier) to capture telematics data from a plurality of vehicle sensors located on various delivery vehicles and to analyze the captured telematics data. In particular, various embodiments of the fleet management system are configured to analyze engine idle data in relation to other telematics data in order to identify inefficiencies, safety hazards, and theft hazards in a driver's delivery process. The fleet management system may also be configured to assess various aspects of vehicle performance, such as vehicle travel delays and vehicle speeds. These analytical capabilities allow the fleet management system to assist fleet managing entities, or other entities, in analyzing driver performance, reducing fuel and maintenance costs, and improving route planning. | 08-01-2013 |
20130179299 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR MOBILE PROCESSING OF PACKAGE SHIPMENT ORDERS AT A POINT OF SALE - Various embodiments provide computer program products and mobile purchase shipping systems for facilitating purchase of a product by a customer. The products and systems may be configured to receive customer data associated with the customer and to validate at least a portion of the received customer data. The products and systems may then receive package data associated with the product and receive payment data from a type of payment presented by the customer. Once received, the products and systems may use at least a portion of the validated data, the package data, and the payment data to generate a shipping manifest. In certain embodiments, the products and systems may include a magnetic card reader configured to read customer data from a customer driver's license. Still other embodiments may incorporate a mobile printer, such that the products and systems may generate a package shipping label, a shipping manifest, and/or a receipt. | 07-11-2013 |
20130179228 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVED CALCULATION OF COEFFICIENT FOR PRICE SENSITIVITY - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and computer program products for calculating a sufficiently accurate coefficient for price sensitivity to use in a target pricing system. In general, various embodiments of the invention involve providing an expanded data set by adding shadow data to a historical bid data set that allows a logistic regression approach to mathematically calculate the coefficient for price sensitivity with greater accuracy. | 07-11-2013 |
20130179146 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING TRANSLATIONS OF APPLICATIONS USING DECENTRALIZED CONTRIBUTIONS - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for providing a translation for a set of one or more terms or phrases related to a software application using decentralized contributions. In particular, various embodiments provide systems and methods by which multiple users of the application contribute translations for individual terms or phrases of the application instead of having one entity supply the translation of the software application. Specifically, the process of various embodiments: (1) provides a repository for storing translations of the individual terms or phrases in a target language (e.g., a language for which a translation is needed); (2) collects the translations provided by users and stores the translations in the repository; (3) identifies the preferred translation for each individual term or phrase; and (4) displays the preferred translation to the user in response to receiving a user's request for a preferred translation in the target language. | 07-11-2013 |
20130179111 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING A TRANSPORTING INSTRUCTION USING AN ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR - A system including an environmental sensor that can travel with a product within a carrier's logistics network. The environmental sensor being configured to sense an environmental condition capable of affecting the product to generate product environment data. The system includes a scanner configured to read product environment data from the environmental sensor. The system also includes a hub control unit configured to communicate with the scanner and receive the product environment data from the scanner and determines whether the product environment data transcends a limit of exposure of the product to an environmental condition. The hub control unit is also configured to generate a transporting instruction to redirect transport of the product to an alternate destination different from its original destination if the hub control unit determines that the product environment data indicates the environmental condition of the product has transcended the limit of exposure. | 07-11-2013 |
20130173490 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, APPARATUSES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR FACILITATING PRODUCT EXCHANGE SERVICES - An apparatus for facilitating product exchanges includes a processor and memory storing executable computer code causing the apparatus to at least perform operations including triggering an exchange procedure to return a product(s) to an entity responsive to receipt of an indicated selection of a return service option. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to generate a return label(s) and identify a box(es) for inclusion of the product responsive to the receipt of the indicated selection and may generate a notification(s) notifying a user of a pickup time for the product and receive an indication that the product is packaged in the box(es), that information of the return label is captured and that the product is collected for delivery. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to receive an indication that the product is delivered to entity. Corresponding methods and computer program products are also provided. | 07-04-2013 |
20130166359 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER-PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR DETERMINING SHIPPING INCENTIVES - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and computer-program products for determining shipping incentives. In general, various embodiments of the invention involve applying a shipping incentive for a customer receiving inbound shipments from a plurality of parties based on increased inbound shipments received from such parties. While other embodiments of the invention involve applying a shipping incentive to at least one customer based on increased shipments shipped to and/or received in a locale for a particular time period using a common carrier. In particular embodiments, the incentive may be a discount on a cost of shipping for the customer. While in other embodiments, the incentive may be something else such as a preferred shipping service for the customer. | 06-27-2013 |
20130157579 | SYMBIOTIC SYSTEM FOR TESTING ELECTROMAGNETIC SIGNAL COVERAGE IN AREAS NEAR TRANSPORT ROUTES - A cooperative system for testing signal strength near a target area selected by a wireless provider is disclosed, using test units installed in the fleet vehicles of an unrelated service enterprise. The system in one embodiment includes an algorithm for comparing test parameters to the route data contained in the dispatch plan for the fleet vehicles, in order to identify the optimal routes on which to send test units. A computer software product for storing the parameters and executing the algorithms is also disclosed. Signal testing in a target area is accomplished through the symbiotic relationship between the testing units and the fleet vehicles, whereby the wireless provider benefits from unit carriage along routes already being traveled by the fleet vehicles for a different purpose. This Abstract is provided quickly inform a reader about the subject matter, and not for use interpreting the scope or meaning of the claims. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154817 | GEOFENCED BASED BACK-UP LIMITS - A computer system that is configured to: (A) define a geofence surrounding a geographic area; (B) gather information associated with the geofenced area; and (C) assign one or more parameters to the geofenced area based on the information gathered, wherein at least one of the assigned parameters is used to monitor the performance of a delivery vehicle driver while the delivery vehicle driver is operating a delivery vehicle within the geofenced area. In particular embodiments, the parameters include a backup limit defining a number of times a delivery vehicle operating within the geofenced area is permitted to back up while operating the delivery vehicle within the geofenced area (e.g., during a particular delivery cycle). In other embodiments, the parameters include a maximum speed limit for the geofenced area. The system may be adapted to automatically generate an alert in response to the delivery vehicle operating outside of the defined parameters. | 06-20-2013 |
20130151436 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED DELIVERY SERVICES - Systems and methods are disclosed for providing personalized delivery services by a carrier providing a package delivery service. For example, a consignee may indicate a delivery preference to be applied to delivery of a package, such as indicating a specific location where the package is to be left upon delivery, if the consignee is not present to accept the package. In one embodiment, the consignee may be notified by the carrier of the scheduled delivery of the package, and may be linked to the carrier's web site to indicate a delivery preference. Alternatively, the delivery preference may be indicated by the consignee proactively accessing the web site. After conveying a delivery preference, the carrier's systems communicate the delivery preference at the appropriate time to a portable computing device which informs the delivery personnel of the consignee's delivery preference. Other embodiments allow the consignor to indicate delivery preferences. | 06-13-2013 |
20130151373 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUPPORTING REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF CONTROLLED AND NON-CONTROLLED ITEMS - Systems and methods for supporting regulatory requirements for the distribution of controlled and non-controlled items such as, for example, non-controlled prescriptions (Rx), medical devices, and controlled substances in countries such as the United States and Canada, are provided. The systems and methods incorporate a license verification module that is configured to perform license validation for a particular order placed for a controlled and/or non-controlled item. In certain embodiments, the license verification module compares order data to historically sorted data and if one or more discrepancies exist, validation is unsuccessful. The license verification module may further query a third party database for updated license information upon validation failure. The systems and methods further incorporate a suspicious order monitoring module that is configured to perform a plurality of checks on the order to identify the order as an “order of interest” that may be further investigated and deemed to be suspicious. | 06-13-2013 |
20130151034 | DETERMINING SPEED PARAMETERS IN A GEOGRAPHIC AREA - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for assigning parameters to a geographic area, wherein the parameters may be used to associate a speed limit with the geographic area. For example, in one embodiment, a geofenced area that comprises one or more street segments is identified. Additionally, speed data associated with one of more of the street segments is received. After receiving the speed data, a speed limit is determined for one or more of the street segments and associated with one or more of the street segments. | 06-13-2013 |
20130144429 | SORT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for assisting sort operators in identifying the appropriate location to sort an item. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system for identifying a particular bin from a plurality of bins for sorting a package is provided. The system includes a plurality of bins configured to receive sorted packages; an optical reader positioned to capture destination indicia associated with the package; a keypad comprising a plurality of keys, where in at least some of the keys are associated with individual bins of the plurality of bins and at least some of the keys include lights; and a control system. The control system is configured to: receive data from the optical reader relating to the destination indicia; identify a particular bin within the plurality of bins associated with the received data; and trigger illumination of one or more lights on the keypad. | 06-06-2013 |
20130138573 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 05-30-2013 |
20130132436 | REGISTRATION AND MAINTENANCE OF ADDRESS DATA FOR EACH SERVICE POINT IN A TERRITORY - A computer system and method is disclosed for mining current and archived address data in order to identify a preferred address for each service point in a territory. The data mining system may start in response to the presentation of a candidate address for matching. The set of mined data may be prioritized by clustering like characteristics, building similarity matrices, and by constructing dendrograms with nodes joined according to common characteristics. A computer system and method for maintaining a central database of preferred addresses is also disclosed. Selected address data gathered in a queue may be scored by characteristic, grouped by consignee location, and staged for processing. The scored queue of data may be prioritized by clustering like characteristics, building similarity matrices, and by constructing dendrograms. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131975 | ENHANCED LOCATION INFORMATION FOR POINTS OF INTEREST - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for identifying a serviceable address that is associated with a street network connection point and a parcel drop-off point. For example, in one embodiment, the serviceable address may be associated with a street network connection point that is part of a digital map. The serviceable address may also be associated with a parcel drop-off point that includes parcel drop-off point information, such as a parcel drop-off point geo coordinate associated with the parcel drop-off point and street network connection point geo coordinate associated with the street network connection point. | 05-23-2013 |
20130124430 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FREIGHT TRACKING AND MONITORING - System, methods, and computer program products are provided for enhanced freight tracking and monitoring. The system may track the location of a freight shipment within a carrier's transportation network from the time it is picked up by a carrier from a consignor until it is delivered to a consignee, provide for weight determinations and shipping re-classifications of the freight shipment during transport, and provide real-time status information and reports to the carrier, consignor, and/or consignee. | 05-16-2013 |
20130124402 | INTERNET PACKAGE SHIPPING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for shipping a package from a package sender to an intended recipient, utilizing Internet communications to place shipping orders, request on demand package pickup, maintain and utilize pre-stored profile information, view shipping history, track orders, etc. A package sender with an Internet-accessible computer accesses an Internet site and associated shipping system operated by a shipping service provider. The package sender enters information required for shipping the package, including shipping options and methods for payment, and the shipment transaction is validated. If the transaction is validated, printer indicia are communicated to the customer's computer, which is enabled to locally print a prepaid label containing special machine-readable as well as human-readable indicia. The shipping service provider acquires the package by drop-off, standard pickup or on call pickup, scans the machine readable indicia, verifies other indicia of authenticity, and processes the package in accordance with information encoded on the label. | 05-16-2013 |
20130124363 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING SUSPICIOUS ORDERS - Various embodiments of the present invention generally relate to systems and methods for identifying suspicious orders for controlled substances based on performing checks on a received order using historical information on previous orders. According to various embodiments, these checks may include: (1) comparing the order quantity for the received order with the order quantity history for the customer who placed the order for the controlled substance; (2) comparing the order quantity and the days since the last order was shipped to the customer for the same controlled substance with the order quantity history and the days between orders for the particular customer and controlled substance; (3) comparing the order quantity with order quantity history for orders received by customers of the same type for the controlled substance; and (4) comparing the order quantity with order quantity history for any customer for the particular controlled substance. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120162 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF NOTIFICATION OF AN AIRCRAFT CARGO FIRE WITHIN A CONTAINER - Various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for notifying a flight crew of a fire condition in a cargo container of an aircraft. For instance, particular embodiments involve installing at least one notification device on a cargo container that is in communication with at least one of a fire-detection system or a fire-suppression system for the cargo container. In these particular embodiments, the notification device is configured to emit energy when the fire-detection system detects the fire condition in the cargo container or the fire-suppression system activates as a result of the fire condition. Further, particular embodiments of the invention involve installing at least one detector positioned to detect the energy emitted by the notification device. In these particular embodiments, the detector is configured to send a signal to notify the flight crew of the fire condition after detecting the energy emitted by the notification device. | 05-16-2013 |
20130110285 | AUTOMATED DISPENSING OF TRAVEL PATH APPLICANTS | 05-02-2013 |
20130110284 | AUTOMATED DISPENSING OF TRAVEL PATH APPLICANTS | 05-02-2013 |
20130106593 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ALERTING PERSONS OF OBSTACLES OR APPROACHING HAZARDS | 05-02-2013 |
20130098989 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COLLECTING PRIMARY AND SECONDARY DATA ASSOCIATED WITH SHIPPING CONTAINERS - In various embodiments, methods and systems are provided for capturing primary and secondary data associated with a product in a container or placed on a pallet. For example, a method may include (a) retrieving a primary data from a first data source physically associated with the product or container; (b) gathering secondary data using a second data source physically associated with the product or container, wherein the secondary data relates to at least one condition experienced by the product or the container; (c) retrieving the secondary data from a second data source, wherein the secondary data and the primary data are retrieved at substantially the same time; and (d) determining whether the at least one condition has transcended a limit. If a condition has transcended a limit, at least one alert may be generated and transmitted. | 04-25-2013 |
20130094693 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR PROCESSING A PACKAGE FOR SHIPPING WITH A COMMON CARRIER ON A WIRELESS COMPUTING DEVICE - Various embodiments of present invention provide systems, methods, and computer-program products containing executable code for processing a package for shipping with a common carrier. Various embodiments include a wireless computing device that may be one of several types of devices such as smartphones, mobile telephones, mobile computers, portable digital assistants, laptop computers, gaming devices, electronic tablets, or other types of similar devices. In particular embodiments, executable code is installed on the wireless computing device that, when executed, causes the device to perform certain functionality. For instance, in particular embodiments, the wireless computing device records an image of a shipping form being placed on a package, verifies the image is suitable for analysis and transmission, and extracts a tracking number from the image. Further, the wireless computing device transmits the image to a common carrier so that the carrier may process information extracted from the image to facilitate shipping the package. | 04-18-2013 |
20130066669 | SERVICE EXCEPTION ANALYSIS SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Various embodiments provide a service exception analysis system for identifying the existence of one or more service exceptions incurred during actual transport of one or more of a plurality of packages. The system comprises one or more computer processors configured to receive actual data related to one or more observed parameters associated with transport of at least one of the plurality of packages; retrieve at least a portion of forecast data contained in one or more memory storage areas, the forecast data being related to one or more expected parameters associated with transport; compare the actual and forecast data to identify one or more discrepancies; analyze the one or more discrepancies to verify whether one or more service exceptions exist; and in response to one or more service exceptions being identified, generate one or more service exception reports. Associated computer program products and computer-implemented methods are also provided. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066610 | NETWORK PLANNING TOOL - Various embodiments provide a network planning tool comprising one or more memory storage areas containing data related to a plurality of transportation networks, and one or more computer processors configured to: receive input data comprising one or more modifications to one or more parameters associated with the plurality of transportation networks; retrieve at least a portion of the data contained in the one or more memory storage areas; validate the input data against the portion of data retrieved from the one or more memory storage areas, the validating comprising at least calculating one or more impacts to the integrated flow model based at least in part upon the received input data; and calculate, based at least in part upon the identified one or more impacts, one or more updated flow models for the plurality of transportation networks. Associated computer program products and computer-implemented methods are also provided. | 03-14-2013 |
20130063251 | MONITORING RESOURCES USING RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION TECHNOLOGIES - Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for monitoring resources. In one embodiment, RFID tags/sensors can be attached to resources and mobile assets may include the ability to communicate with such RFID tags/sensors. The mobile assets can transmit signals to be received by the RFID tags/sensors and receive responses from the same. For the resources associated with the received responses, the mobile asset can estimate their location to be that of or proximate to the location of the mobile asset. | 03-14-2013 |
20130059626 | Managed Access to Multiple Wireless Carriers - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for managing access of mobile stations to a plurality of wireless carriers. For example, in one embodiment, a central system can provide configuration files to mobile stations. The mobile stations can use the configuration files to access a plurality of different wireless carriers, with the different wireless carriers potentially implementing distinct technologies and communication standards and protocols. | 03-07-2013 |
20130031029 | GEOFENCE-BASED TAX ESTIMATES - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for estimating taxes. In one embodiment, the location of a vehicle can be monitored by a variety of computing entities. By using the vehicle's location, it can be determined when the vehicle enters and/or exits defined geofences. After a determination that the vehicle has entered or exited a defined geofenced area, telematics data can be collected and used to estimate taxes, such as road use taxes and fuel use taxes. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030873 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING MOBILE ASSET EFFICIENCIES - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an asset management computer system for assessing operational data indicative of the movement of one or more mobile assets within a work environment. The mobile assets may be, for example, employees, packages, or vehicles moving through a work environment. According to various embodiments, the asset management computer system may be configured for analyzing the operational data and segmenting it into a plurality of position segments representing periods of time classified according to the mobile asset's position in relation to one or virtual work areas. In addition, the asset management computer system may be further configured to determine operational characteristics for each of the position segments, generate a graphical representation of the position segments, and provide operational statistics based on the position segments, which can be used to assess asset behavior and the efficiency of a work environment's design. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030642 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACCIDENT RECONSTRUCTION - According to various embodiments, systems and methods are provided for capturing vehicle activity data and filtering such data to reconstruct accident conditions according to a predetermined level of accuracy. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030641 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING FAULT CODES - Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for managing fault codes triggered by one or more vehicles during operation. In general, various embodiments of the invention involve recording and analyzing fault codes triggered during a particular time period while a vehicle is in operation. As a result of the analysis, various embodiments of the invention may set a state for each of the identified fault codes, the state indicating a level of action to address the identified fault code. In particular embodiments, the states may be one of a caution state indicating one or more components or sub-systems of the vehicle should be monitored, a critical state indicating one or more components or sub-systems of the vehicle should be repaired, or an environmental state indicating failure or potential failure of one or more components or sub-systems of the vehicle may affect one or more environmental conditions. | 01-31-2013 |
20130013518 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, APPARATUSES, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR COLLECTING RECYCLABLE GOODS - An apparatus and system are provided for facilitating a mechanism in which to collect and consolidate goods at a location for recycling. The apparatus includes a processor capable of defining a time period(s) and determining type(s) of recyclable goods and associating a defined time period(s) with one of the recyclable goods based on the type. A portion of the goods may be picked up from an entity upon expiration of the time period. The processor is also capable of receiving an indication that the portion of the goods are delivered to a location and consolidated with other goods of the same type. The other goods are delivered to the location from other entities and the processor is capable of determining whether the consolidated goods exceed a predetermined threshold and if so the processor is capable of generating an instruction to deliver the consolidated goods to a facility for recycling. | 01-10-2013 |
20130013218 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATING ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS OF SHIPPING SYSTEMS - According to various embodiments, package evaluation systems and methods are provided for evaluating the sustainability of packaging used in the shipment of goods. In particular, the package evaluation systems and methods are configured for performing package evaluations and managing and providing access to data resulting from package evaluations. The package evaluations are designed to assess, among other things, the ability of sample packages to prevent damage to their contents, the volumetric efficiency of sample packages, and the sustainability of the materials used to construct sample packages. In addition, the systems and methods are further configured for assigning a certification to an entity associated with the evaluated packages based on the results of the evaluation. | 01-10-2013 |
20130006821 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPORTING ITEMS - Various embodiments of the present invention provide improved systems, methods and computer program products for managing the delivery of items across international borders. Systems and methods for facilitating an international cross-border shipment from an exporting entity to an import entity are provided. The method may include the steps of: receiving, via an import computer system, shipping data comprising a pickup location and a delivery location corresponding to an item to be delivered from an export entity to an import entity; providing an interactive display offering a plurality of label delivery options to an import entity; receiving a selection from the import entity of a select label delivery option; generating a commercial invoice using at least in part the received shipping data; and providing a label and the commercial invoice according to the selected label delivery option | 01-03-2013 |
20120318537 | SUPPRESSING A FIRE CONDITION WITHIN A CARGO CONTAINER - Various concepts are provided for suppressing a fire condition in an aircraft. In one embodiment, the presence of a fire condition in an aircraft is detected. After such a detection, extinguishing agents can be dispensed and/or certain areas of the aircraft can be depressurized. | 12-20-2012 |
20120307064 | DETECTION OF TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS - In general, embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatus, systems, computing devices, computing entities, and/or the like for detecting possible traffic violations of vehicles. For example, in one embodiment, this may include receiving an indication that a school bus has entered or is entering a stopped position. After receiving an indication that the school bus has entered or is entering the stopped position, an area proximate the school bus can be monitored to detect possible traffic violations. | 12-06-2012 |
20120303543 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 11-29-2012 |
20120303542 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 11-29-2012 |
20120303541 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 11-29-2012 |
20120303540 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 11-29-2012 |
20120303539 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 11-29-2012 |
20120303538 | CUSTOMER CONTROLLED MANAGEMENT OF SHIPMENTS - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for customer controlled management of shipments. For example, in various embodiments, a customer can provide information prior to a first delivery attempt of an item by a carrier to receive messages regarding shipment of the item and to have the item delivered in accordance with the provided information. | 11-29-2012 |
20120285908 | CATHODE RAY TUBE MONITOR TO FLAT PANEL MONITOR CONVERSION BRACKET - A conversion bracket is described. Specifically, the conversion bracket allows a mounting system for use with a computer system having a CRT monitor to be used with a computer system having a flat panel monitor. The conversion bracket may comprise a two prong mounting adapter and a flange to secure the conversion bracket to the CRT monitor caddy. | 11-15-2012 |
20120271777 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING A TRANSPORTING INSTRUCTION USING AN ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR - A system including an environmental sensor that can travel with a product within a carrier's logistics network. The environmental sensor being configured to sense an environmental condition capable of affecting the product to generate product environment data. The system includes a scanner configured to read product environment data from the environmental sensor. The system also includes a hub control unit configured to communicate with the scanner and receive the product environment data from the scanner and determines whether the product environment data transcends a limit of exposure of the product to an environmental condition. The hub control unit is also configured to generate a transporting instruction to redirect transport of the product to an alternate destination different from its original destination if the hub control unit determines that the product environment data indicates the environmental condition of the product has transcended the limit of exposure. | 10-25-2012 |
20120253892 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING DELIVERY PERFORMANCE BASED ON OPERATIONAL DATA - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management computer system for assessing delivery performance. According to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system may be configured for assessing operational data to identify the occurrence of one or more delivery stops, identify one or more stop attributes for each of the identified delivery stops, and generate a graphical display indicating the identified delivery stops and stop attributes. In addition, the fleet management computer system may be configured to assess the operational data to determine dispatch statistics including cumulative or average delivery performance statistics grouped according to various working shifts. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253889 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING ASSET EFFICIENCIES - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an asset management computer system configured for assessing the efficiency of one or more assets, such as human employees. According to various embodiments, the asset management computer system may be configured for analyzing operational data indicative of one or more asset dynamics and segmenting the operational data into a plurality of activity segments representing periods of time classified according to asset activity. In addition, the asset management computer system may be further configured to determine one or more operational characteristics for each of said activity segments and generate a graphical representation of the activity segments. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253888 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING VEHICLE AND VEHICLE OPERATOR EFFICIENCY - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management computer system for assessing vehicle efficiency. According to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is configured for receiving and assessing vehicle telematics data in order to determine an idle percentage of engine run time value representing the percentage of the vehicle's engine run time during which the vehicle's engine was idling during the one or more time periods. In addition, the fleet management computer system may be configured for assessing vehicle telematics data in order to identify segment of engine idle time and generate a graphical display indicating various attributes of the identified idle time segments. The idle time percentage and idle time segments generated by the system can be used to assess the efficiency of vehicles and/or vehicle operators in an associated fleet. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253867 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING OPERATIONAL DELAYS BASED ON OPERATIONAL DATA - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management computer system configured for assessing operational delays. According to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system may be configured for assessing service data in order to identify delay code segments representing an occurrence indicated by a vehicle operator as delaying a delivery-related activity. In certain embodiments, the fleet management computer system may be configured for generating a graphical representation of such delay code segments. In addition, various embodiments of the fleet management computer system may be configured for comparing planning data and operational data to identify off-course portions of a travel path of a vehicle that do not follow a predefined planned route. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253862 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A FLEET MANAGEMENT USER INTERFACE - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management computer system configured for providing a fleet management user interface. According to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is configured for assessing operational data to determine a vehicle travel path and one or more operational characteristics indicated by the operational data. In addition, according to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is configured for generating a graphical user interface that includes an evaluation results display showing the operational characteristics and a geographical map showing the vehicle travel path. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253861 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR UPDATING MAPS BASED ON TELEMATICS DATA - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a mapping management computer system. According to various embodiments, the mapping management computer system may be configured for updating geographical maps by assessing map data and operational data including vehicle telematics data to identify portions of a vehicle path that do not correspond to known travel paths. In various embodiments, the system is configured to define these identified portions as new known travel paths corresponding to a public road, private road, parking lot lane, or the like, and update the map data to reflect the new known travel paths. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253632 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FORECASTING TRAVEL DELAYS - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management computer system configured for forecasting travel delays within a geographic area. According to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is configured to assess operational data, including vehicle telematics data. In various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is further configured to determine, based on the operational data, a value indicative of the average amount of travel delay time per unit of distance within the geographic area, such as the average amount of idle time second per mile of travel with the geographic area. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253587 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ASSESSING VEHICLE HANDLING - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a fleet management computer system configured for assessing vehicle backing According to various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is configured to assess operational data associated with one or more vehicles and identify vehicle backing events occurring during a particular time period. In various embodiments, the fleet management computer system is also configured to determine one or more backing characteristics for the identified backing events and generate a graphical display providing backing information indicative of the backing characteristics. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253550 | DETERMINING SPEED PARAMETERS IN A GEOGRAPHIC AREA - Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for assigning parameters to a geographic area, wherein the parameters may be used to associate a speed limit with the geographic area. For example, in one embodiment, a geofenced area that comprises one or more street segments is identified. Additionally, speed data associated with one of more of the street segments is received. After receiving the speed data, a speed limit is determined for one or more of the street segments and associated with one or more of the street segments. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253548 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SEGMENTING OPERATIONAL DATA - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an efficiency management system configured for evaluating various operational efficiencies based on operational data. In certain embodiments, the efficiency management system is adapted for use as a vehicle fleet management system and configured for receiving operational data from a fleet of vehicles and vehicle operators, and for segmenting the received operational data into a plurality of activity segments. Various embodiments of the vehicle fleet management system may also be further configured for generating a graphical representation of the identified activity segments. | 10-04-2012 |
20120179621 | HAZARDOUS SHIPMENT TRACKING AND MONITORING - System, methods, and computer program products are provided for enhanced freight tracking and monitoring. The system may track the location of a freight shipment within a carrier's transportation network from the time it is picked up by a carrier from a consignor until it is delivered to a consignee, provide for weight determinations and shipping re-classifications of the freight shipment during transport, and provide real-time status information and reports to the carrier, consignor, and/or consignee. | 07-12-2012 |
20120146810 | COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BACKUPS - A computer system that is configured to: (A) define a geofence surrounding a geographic area; (B) gather information associated with the geofenced area; and (C) assign one or more parameters to the geofenced area based on the information gathered, wherein at least one of the assigned parameters is used to monitor the performance of a delivery vehicle driver while the delivery vehicle driver is operating a delivery vehicle within the geofenced area. In particular embodiments, the parameters include a backup limit defining a number of times a delivery vehicle operating within the geofenced area is permitted to back up while operating the delivery vehicle within the geofenced area (e.g., during a particular delivery cycle). In other embodiments, the parameters include a maximum speed limit for the geofenced area. The system may be adapted to automatically generate an alert in response to the delivery vehicle operating outside of the defined parameters. | 06-14-2012 |
20120123921 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING AND BROKERAGE OPERATIONS SUPPORT PROCESSING - Systems and methods are disclosed for a brokerage operations support system to facilitate international shipping of goods into a country. The system receives information pertaining to a shipment and rates the shipment for a specific country by applying rules defined for the country's customs regulations. Status information of the shipment is received by the system, including whether the shipment has cleared the importing country's customs process. If the shipment has not cleared, the handling systems ensure the shipment is withheld from delivery until clearance is obtained. A flexible system architecture comprising a server and both attended and unattended workstations for a core system that can be modified to allow rating and processing of shipments occur in various modes to accommodate the procedures for each importing country. | 05-17-2012 |
20120109363 | METHOD & SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING A PACKAGE PRE-LOAD OPERATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH A DISPATCH PLAN - The present invention provides systems and methods for electronically-capturing a destination address of a package and for using the destination address to automate a package pre-load operation. An embodiment of the invention includes a compression system for compressing the destination address as a compressed MaxiCode symbol, a smart shipping label system for generating a shipping label with a compressed MaxiCode and a pre-load assist system for generating package handling instructions from the electronically-captured destination address. | 05-03-2012 |
20120101629 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SORTING IN A PACKAGE DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present invention provides novel systems and methods for processing packages through a delivery network using a hub assist label. Generally described, the hub assist label includes indicia of a sequence of sorting locations that designates the flow of a package through a delivery network. | 04-26-2012 |
20120095934 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED DELIVERY SERVICES - Systems and methods are disclosed for providing personalized delivery services by a carrier providing a package delivery service. For example, a consignee may indicate a delivery preference to be applied to delivery of a package, such as indicating a specific location where the package is to be left upon delivery, if the consignee is not present to accept the package. In one embodiment, the consignee may be notified by the carrier of the scheduled delivery of the package, and may be linked to the carrier's web site to indicate a delivery preference. Alternatively, the delivery preference may be indicated by the consignee proactively accessing the web site. After conveying a delivery preference, the carrier's systems communicate the delivery preference at the appropriate time to a portable computing device which informs the delivery personnel of the consignee's delivery preference. Other embodiments allow the consignor to indicate delivery preferences. | 04-19-2012 |
20120089533 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED DELIVERY SERVICES - Systems and methods are disclosed for providing personalized delivery services by a carrier providing a package delivery service. For example, a consignee may indicate a delivery preference to be applied to delivery of a package, such as indicating a specific location where the package is to be left upon delivery, if the consignee is not present to accept the package. In one embodiment, the consignee may be notified by the carrier of the scheduled delivery of the package, and may be linked to the carrier's web site to indicate a delivery preference. Alternatively, the delivery preference may be indicated by the consignee proactively accessing the web site. After conveying a delivery preference, the carrier's systems communicate the delivery preference at the appropriate time to a portable computing device which informs the delivery personnel of the consignee's delivery preference. Other embodiments allow the consignor to indicate delivery preferences. | 04-12-2012 |
20120089531 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED DELIVERY SERVICES - Systems and methods are disclosed for providing personalized delivery services by a carrier providing a package delivery service. For example, a consignee may indicate a delivery preference to be applied to delivery of a package, such as indicating a specific location where the package is to be left upon delivery, if the consignee is not present to accept the package. In one embodiment, the consignee may be notified by the carrier of the scheduled delivery of the package, and may be linked to the carrier's web site to indicate a delivery preference. Alternatively, the delivery preference may be indicated by the consignee proactively accessing the web site. After conveying a delivery preference, the carrier's systems communicate the delivery preference at the appropriate time to a portable computing device which informs the delivery personnel of the consignee's delivery preference. Other embodiments allow the consignor to indicate delivery preferences. | 04-12-2012 |
20120089530 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED DELIVERY SERVICES - Systems and methods are disclosed for providing personalized delivery services by a carrier providing a package delivery service. For example, a consignee may indicate a delivery preference to be applied to delivery of a package, such as indicating a specific location where the package is to be left upon delivery, if the consignee is not present to accept the package. In one embodiment, the consignee may be notified by the carrier of the scheduled delivery of the package, and may be linked to the carrier's web site to indicate a delivery preference. Alternatively, the delivery preference may be indicated by the consignee proactively accessing the web site. After conveying a delivery preference, the carrier's systems communicate the delivery preference at the appropriate time to a portable computing device which informs the delivery personnel of the consignee's delivery preference. Other embodiments allow the consignor to indicate delivery preferences. | 04-12-2012 |
20120066143 | PROVIDING PACKAGING RECOMMENDATION TO SHIPPING CUSTOMERS - Systems and methods for providing a packaging recommendation to a customer is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system can present the customer with a merchandise list of merchandise, receive merchandise information from the customer about the particular characteristics of the merchandise, and generate a packaging recommendation via an interface to the customer. | 03-15-2012 |
20090083078 | DAMAGE INPUT MATRIX REDESIGN - A method and system for analyzing damage to a package to process a damage claim is disclosed. Each package contains one or more pieces of merchandise, internal packaging surrounding the merchandise, such as bubble sheets, and external packaging, such as an envelope or box. In accordance with the method of the present invention, the system is configured to determine the type of merchandise within a package, associate a fragility class with the merchandise, and determine the minimum packaging requirements for the merchandise by referencing one or more minimum packaging requirements matrices. Depending on the comparison of the package with the minimum packaging requirements, the present invention either approves or denies a damage claim for the package. | 03-26-2009 |
20090037203 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AND DYNAMICALLY UPDATING CUSTOMER-SPECIFIC SHIPPING INFORMATION ON AN ON-SITE SERVER - A commerce system for serving a customer of delivery services using dynamically updated data including platform services, an operations-management server maintained by a vendor, and a local commerce server and a remote computer system maintained by a delivery services company. The operations-management server is positioned at a customer location and operatively connected to the platform services. The commerce server is operatively connected to the operations-management server and operatively connected to the platform services and includes local programs configured for providing services of the delivery services company to the customer. The remote computer system is connected to the local commerce server by a network. The remote computer system includes a message-management system, wherein at least one of the message-management compartments holds update data connected to the local commerce server for updating the commerce data, and includes remote programs. The operations-management and local commerce servers run interactively on the platform services. | 02-05-2009 |
20080255758 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR GENERATING REFERENCE GEOCODES FOR POINT ADDRESSES - Systems and methods are provided for generating a reference location data set, such as a reference longitude and latitude point, for each of a plurality of point addresses. A reference location data set can be determined for a point address based on a history of prior geocode samples, such as GPS readings, that have been obtained using a portable computing device during a prior delivery to or pickup from the point address. A location data service collects such geocode samples and processes the samples to generate a reference location data set, such as a reference longitude and latitude and a zone of confidence around the reference longitude and latitude, for each unique point address. To determine whether an item is being delivered to a wrong address, current location data obtained during a delivery can be compared against the reference location data generated by the location data service for the delivery address. | 10-16-2008 |