Shipping Package Types

1. Shipping Package Types Introduction

The Shipping Package Types section is used to define and manage the various types of packaging used for shipping goods. This setup helps ensure that items are packed, transported, and billed correctly according to the selected packaging standard. Package types also support accurate logistics tracking, warehouse planning, and carrier billing calculations.

Currently, the system supports multiple packaging formats, but only Pallet and Case are actively used. These two types are configured to reflect the standard shipping practices followed in daily operations. This guide will walk you through how to view, add, and manage these package types effectively within the system.

• Go to Administration
• Click on Admin Settings
• Click on Shipping Package Types under Admin Settings Action

2. Key features of the Shipping Package Types tab

• Search Bar (Search by code or name): The search bar allows users to locate specific shipping package types by entering either the code or name field. As the user types, the system may refine the displayed results to match the query. This function is essential for quickly accessing specific records without scrolling through the entire list.
• Select Filter Dropdown: The Select Filter dropdown helps users narrow down the list by showing only the entries they need. It offers filter choices based on preset fields like name,code or active. This makes it easier to find the right items without scrolling through everything. It’s useful when users are looking for specific package types. The filter helps save time and keeps the list focused on what's important for the task.

• Refresh Button: The Refresh button updates the list view with the most current data from the system. It is particularly useful after adding, modifying, or deleting a record, ensuring it displays any latest changes. 
• Add New Button: The Add New button opens a form to create a new shipping package type. Selecting this initiates a separate interface where users can input details such as code, name, type, and status. The new entry appears in the list view once it has been saved successfully and the page is refreshed.
• Pagination and Records Per Page Controls: Located at the top right, the pagination control shows the current page number and allows navigation through multiple result pages. It includes directional arrows to jump between the first, last, or subsequent pages. This control ensures usability when the dataset exceeds the visible limit per page. Next to it, the "25 per page" dropdown allows the user to adjust how many entries are displayed at once. 

3. Shipping Package Types Overview:

• Type:  The Type field specifies the format or category of the shipping container. It indicates the physical structure used to transport goods, such as cartons, pallets, or crates. This field helps ensure the correct packaging is selected during order processing or shipment preparation. Proper selection of the package type contributes to optimized storage, secure transport, and accurate freight calculations. It also assists logistics teams in planning, handling equipment, and transport arrangements based on package dimensions and weight.
• Created on (CDT): The Created on field captures the date and time when the package type record was first established in the system. This timestamp is system-generated and follows the Central Daylight Time (CDT) time zone. It provides traceability for system entries and helps administrators verify when a particular packaging configuration was introduced. This field is particularly useful for auditing purposes and for tracking changes over time. The timestamp ensures transparency in configuration management and supports version control.
• Modified on (CDT): The Modified on field records the most recent date and time when any update was made to the package type entry. Like the creation timestamp, this field follows the Central Daylight Time (CDT) standard. It helps users monitor updates and track recent activity related to each packaging method. This field is critical for identifying when adjustments have been made to existing definitions, especially when multiple users manage records. It ensures that users are working with the most current version of the data.
• Active: The Active toggle indicates whether the package type is currently available for selection within operational workflows. When toggled on, the package type can be used in the shipping, receiving, and order fulfillment processes. Disabling the toggle restricts the type from being used but retains its history and data within the system. This feature allows for temporary or permanent deactivation without data loss, providing flexibility in configuration. It supports business needs that may require phasing out certain packaging types over time.

• Click on View Details

• Code: The Code field is a mandatory input used to assign a short alphanumeric value to the shipping package type. It acts as a label for internal referencing, ensuring efficient data management and search functionality. The field must be completed before the record can be saved. The input typically consists of letters and/or numbers without special characters. This field supports consistent tracking across systems where short-form entries are required.
• Name: The Name field is required and is used to enter a descriptive title for the package type. It provides clarity to users by displaying a readable name instead of an abbreviated code. This value appears in user interfaces, reports, and selection menus to ensure intuitive navigation. Users should enter names that accurately describe the physical container or shipping method. The field ensures proper identification and distinction between various package formats.
• Shipping Package Type: This dropdown allows the user to select a predefined shipping package type from an extensive list. Options include various container formats such as Bag, Box, Pallet, Crate, and others. Each option corresponds to a specific physical packaging method used for transportation or storage. Selecting an appropriate type helps maintain consistency in shipping records and logistics documentation. The dropdown ensures that only valid types are chosen, reducing data entry errors.

•  Active: The Active toggle under the "Attributes" section is used to control the availability status of the shipping package type. When set to "Active," the package type is available for use in operations and transactions. If deactivated, the package type is hidden from standard workflows but retained in the system for record-keeping. This toggle helps manage the lifecycle of shipping package types without deleting them. The control ensures that outdated or unused types can be excluded from active usage while preserving historical data.
• Save and Cancel Buttons: At the bottom of the form, the Save button commits the new entry to the system, validating the required fields. If any required data is missing or incorrect, the form prompts the user to correct it before proceeding. The Cancel button exits the form without saving changes, allowing users to abandon the operation. These buttons provide clear options for users to finalize or discard their input. Their placement at the bottom aligns with standard UI conventions for action confirmation.