Patent ID: 6539360
Filing Date: 2003-03-25
Classification: G06Q,G07B

Abstract:
A computer system for monitoring packages designated for special handling and being shipped to a plurality of consolidation points, comprising:a first computer with a processor configured to carry out instructions comprising the following steps: compiling a list of designated packages requiring special handling; and sending said list electronically to a central computer; an intranet linking said central computer, an accessible intranet site and a plurality of personal computers; said central computer including a processor configured to carry out instructions comprising the following steps: storing said list of designated packages requiring special handling; sorting said list by consolidation point; and posting sorted information from said list to said intranet site; a plurality of scanning devices positioned at said consolidation points linked to said intranet site; said personal computers being located at each consolidation point with processors configured to carry out instructions comprising the following steps: accessing said intranet site; downloading information identifying said designated packages for said consolidation points; and prior to sortation of packages at said consolidation points, identifying said designated packages responsive to one of said scanning devices detecting arrival of a designated package; and a second computer configured to receive input data indicating for each designated package whether special handling has been applied and to then process said input data.