This article explains how the "Force Package Type Validation" feature works on the Packing Screen and how you can compare planned versus actual package types using the Task Details screen.
This feature is designed to enhance accuracy and compliance in your packing process by enforcing package type scanning, which helps reduce discrepancies and potential cost impacts for merchants.
How Force Package Type Validation Works on the Packing Screen
The "Force Package Type Validation" feature introduces a more rigorous process for selecting package types during packing.
1. Activation:
To use this feature, a new parameter called "Force Package Type Validation" must be enabled. This setting is found in the Client screen, under Packing Settings.
When this parameter is enabled, the packing flow described below is activated.
If this parameter is disabled, the packing screen will maintain its current behavior.
Please see the related article here.
2. Packing Workflow with Validation Enabled: When a packer is processing a Shipment Order for a client with "Force Package Type Validation" enabled, the following steps occur:
Scan Prompt: Upon clicking "Close Pack," "Pack Without Label," or "Complete & Print," a pop-up will appear, prompting the packer to scan the Shipment Package Type.
Validation Scenarios:
Scenario A: Scanned Package Type Matches Shipment Order: If the scanned Package Type is the same as the one assigned in the Shipment Order, the system validates it and proceeds with the packing process.
Initial Package Type:
Selected Package Type:
Thus, no Scan Prompt
Scenario B: Scanned Package Type Differs from Shipment Order:
A validation message will appear, requiring the packer to confirm the change.
Once the packer confirms, the newly scanned package type will override the package type that was pre-assigned in the Shipment Order.
Initial Package Type:Selected Package Type & Prompt:
Important Considerations:
"Disable Package Change" Parameter: If the "Disable Package Change" parameter is also enabled for the Client, the system will not allow the packer to override the pre-assigned Package Type in the Shipment Order, even if they scan an incorrect (different) Package Type.
Packing Warnings: If a product has an associated "Packing Warning Type" that is normally triggered upon clicking "Close Pack," the system will first display the Package Type validation pop-up. After that is addressed, the Packing Warning pop-up will be displayed before proceeding.
Please Note: "Item with Box" products are out of scope for the Force Package Type Validation functionality.
Comparing Suggested vs. Actual Package Types in Task Details
To help you track and identify any differences between the package type planned for an order and the one actually used, the system logs this information.
1. Data Logging:
Once a shipment order is packed, the system sends two pieces of information to the backend:
The Shipment Package Type that was previously selected on the Shipment Order (before packing).
The actual selected Shipment Package Type information from the packing step.
2. New Columns in Order Operations Task Details: You can find and compare this information in the "Order Operations Task Details" screen, which now includes two new columns:
Suggested Shipment Package Type: This column displays the Shipment Package Type that was selected on the Shipment Order before the packing process began.
Target LP Type: This column displays the Shipment Package Type of the actual shipment package that was created during the packing step.
3. How to Use for Comparison: By comparing the entries in the "Suggested Shipment Package Type" and "Target LP Type" columns for a specific packing task, users can easily identify any discrepancies between the planned package and the one that was ultimately used. This helps in monitoring compliance and investigating any variations.
By implementing and utilizing the Force Package Type Validation and its associated logging features, you can significantly improve the accuracy of your packing operations and ensure better adherence to packaging guidelines.