Abstract:
An apparatus is provided for improved processing of instructions to provide temporal selection to a client when scheduling a load to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer. The apparatus includes a processor and a non-transitory machine readable memory. The processor is designed to process instructions to provide date and time selection to a client from a server to enable temporal scheduling of a load to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer. The non-transitory machine readable memory at a host server has stored therein computer instructions programmed to cause the processor to store and access user information and instructions, and to present, enable, receive, store and associate date ranges, time ranges and waypoints for a load and cargo delivery destination. A method is also provided.

Description:
RELATED PATENT DATA 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/946,610, filed Feb. 28, 2014, entitled, “System and Method for Time Managing Loads in the Transport of Goods”, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    This disclosure pertains to business-to-business (B2B) transactions. More particularly, this disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for managing the transportation of freight. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Techniques are known for scheduling loads for delivery on behalf of a customer using a carrier. Such scheduling typically involves collating of multiple independent communications from one or more of phone calls, emails, and facsimiles from one or more customer and/or carriers. Logistics capabilities have yet to minimize efforts in intermediating load delivery for customers by carriers. Therefore, there exists a need to improve temporal selection of a load to be delivered and a load to be scheduled for delivery by a carrier that is to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    A system and method are provided for managing the transportation of freight between shippers, brokers, and carriers. Functional interaction between the shippers, brokers, and carriers is provided in a different manner than is currently implemented in a “bricks &amp; mortar” business model. 
         [0005]    According to one aspect, a computer-implemented system of providing date and time selection to a client from a server is provided to enable temporal scheduling of a load to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer. The system includes user information and instructions and a computer processor. The user information and instructions are stored in a computer memory at a host server. The computer processor accesses the memory at a host server to retrieve the user information and instructions and executes the instructions to perform steps including: presenting from the server to the client at a user interface one or more of a selectable date range and a time range for which the user provides a temporal-based requirement for picking up a customer load; enabling selection of one or more of a date range and a time range at a user interface of the client; receiving a selected one or more of the date range and the time range at the server from a user at the client; storing the received information into the database; associating the stored temporal data with a waypoint indicative of a cargo delivery destination desired by a customer; associating the stored waypoint to a load; and associating the attached load to the customer. 
         [0006]    According to another aspect, a method is provided for enabling date and time selection from a client through a server to enable temporal scheduling of a load to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0007]    Preferred embodiments of the disclosure are described below with reference to the following accompanying drawings. 
           [0008]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram of the central processing system and network used to carry out temporal selection of a load to be delivered and a load to be scheduled for delivery by a carrier that is to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer according to an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0009]      FIG. 2  illustrates a flowchart for implementing user authentication and permissions to access through one or more interfaces the features and functionality of  FIG. 1  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0010]      FIG. 3  illustrates a flowchart for displaying load data to users and clients and for selecting and transmitting temporal data requirements for shipping the load. 
           [0011]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  together illustrate a flowchart for a customer selecting carrier bids, approving carrier rates, accepting carrier bids, and storing multiple customer approved bids on a load. 
           [0012]      FIG. 5  illustrates a screen shot of a web page for a simple request for a broker for posting loads and identifying shippers and receivers of a type that would be displayed on the screen of one of the computers connected for communication with the processing circuitry of the server for the system of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0013]      FIG. 6  illustrates a screen shot of a web page for a date/time/selection menu that pops up when a user selects a “Date &amp; Time” field in one of the shipper and received fields of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0014]      FIG. 7  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing a user “mousing over” a selected date range field prior to selecting a time range. 
           [0015]      FIG. 8  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing a selected temporal range achieved in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0016]      FIG. 9  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing selection of a receiver “Set Date &amp; Time” field. 
           [0017]      FIG. 10  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing a selected a temporal range for the pop-up menu of  FIG. 6 . 
           [0018]      FIG. 11  illustrates a screen shot of a web page for realizing the temporal range selected in  FIG. 10 . 
           [0019]      FIG. 12  illustrates a screen shot of a user login page. 
           [0020]      FIG. 13  illustrates a screen shot of a customer dashboard. 
           [0021]      FIG. 14  illustrates a screen shot showing customer load details. 
           [0022]      FIG. 15  illustrates a screen shot showing a customer new load. 
           [0023]      FIG. 16  illustrates load details including a new load with a temporal range selection. 
           [0024]      FIG. 17  illustrates a flowchart depicting account manager load interaction flow and privileges in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0025]      FIGS. 18A and 18B  together illustrate a flowchart depicting a system for rating carriers having checks and balances in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0026]      FIGS. 19A and 19B  together illustrate a flowchart depicting logic behind selection of a temporal range in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0027]      FIG. 20  illustrates a screen shot for a carrier profile to access through one or more interfaces the features and functionality of  FIG. 1  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. 
           [0028]      FIG. 21  illustrates a screen shot depicting a load profile with quotes attached to a load with ratings. 
           [0029]      FIG. 22  illustrates a screen shot depicting a menu for interacting with a carrier rate on a load menu. 
           [0030]      FIG. 23  illustrates a screen shot depicting a customer profile. 
           [0031]      FIG. 24  illustrates a screen shot depicting a brand new load. 
           [0032]      FIG. 25  illustrates a screen shot depicting the selection of equipment for the new load depicted in  FIG. 24 . 
           [0033]      FIG. 26  illustrates a screen shot depicting a new load and adding a line item to a customer&#39;s invoice. 
           [0034]      FIG. 27  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of the line item added to the customer&#39;s invoice of  FIG. 26 . 
           [0035]      FIG. 28  illustrates a screen shot depicting the ability to add a shipper and a receiver for a designated city and state. 
           [0036]      FIG. 29  illustrates a screen shot depicting a pop-up menu while selecting a temporal date range. 
           [0037]      FIG. 30  illustrates a screen shot depicting the pop-up menu of  FIG. 30  while selecting a temporal time range. 
           [0038]      FIG. 31  illustrates a screen shot depicting the pop-up menu of  FIGS. 30 and 31  while selecting a temporal “after” time range. 
           [0039]      FIG. 32  illustrates a screen shot depicting a realized selected temporal range implemented via actions depicted in  FIGS. 29-31 . 
           [0040]      FIG. 33  illustrates a screen shot depicting automatically converted units of weight for a specific cargo over that entered in the screen shot of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 34  illustrates a screen shot depicting a load status change “PUT ON HOLD” resulting from selection of a “POST TO LOAD BOARDS” field in  FIG. 35 . 
           [0042]      FIG. 35  illustrates a screen shot depicting the adding of a carrier quote where permissions change the rate and “XYZ TRUCKING” is added. 
           [0043]      FIG. 36  illustrates a screen shot depicting the addition of a second carrier quote to provide for multiple quotes. 
           [0044]      FIG. 37  illustrates a screen shot depicting a carrier quote menu. 
           [0045]      FIG. 38  illustrates a screen shot depicting a pop-up menu for adding carrier quote equipment. 
           [0046]      FIG. 39  illustrates a screen shot depicting realized changes of carrier quote equipment type from  FIG. 38  to  FIG. 39 . 
           [0047]      FIG. 40  illustrates a screen shot depicting the addition of a note to a carrier. 
           [0048]      FIG. 41  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of the added note input in  FIG. 40 . 
           [0049]      FIG. 42  illustrates a screen shot depicting realizing equipment changes for the listed carrier with the added note and approval of “XYZ TRUCKING”. 
           [0050]      FIG. 43  illustrates a screen shot depicting realized changes for approved carrier “XYZ TRUCKING”. 
           [0051]      FIG. 44  illustrates a screen shot depicting creation of carrier rate paperwork. 
           [0052]      FIG. 45  illustrates a screen shot depicting a pop-up screen that provides a secondary check to a user indicating that this operation is desired by the user. 
           [0053]      FIG. 46  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of carrier rate confirmation paperwork. 
           [0054]      FIG. 47  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of customer rate confirmation paperwork. 
           [0055]      FIG. 48  illustrates a screen shot depicting selection of change of load status to “IN TRANSIT”. 
           [0056]      FIG. 49  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of selection of the changed load status in  FIG. 48 . 
           [0057]      FIG. 50  illustrates a screen shot depicting added notes to a load with carrier permissions to view. 
           [0058]      FIG. 51  illustrates a screen shot depicting that selection is being made for making it visible to a customer. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0059]    This disclosure is submitted in furtherance of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws “to promote the progress of science and useful arts” (Article 1, Section 8). 
         [0060]      FIG. 1  shows a platform or system  10  used to carry out temporal selection of a load to be delivered and a load to be scheduled for delivery by a carrier that is to be transported for a prospective transportation industry customer according to an exemplary embodiment. The system  10  includes a network, such as the Internet  12 , a server  14 , and terminals, or clients  16 ,  18 ,  20 ,  22 ,  24  and  26 . Server  14  includes one or more processor having processing circuitry  28  and data storage having memory  32  communicating with the processing circuitry. Memory  32  includes, or defines one or more databases  33  configurable to store data. Server  14  includes one or more network adapters  15  that enables communication with a network, such as the Internet  12 . Clients  16  and  18  comprise shipper terminals used by Shipper A and Shipper B, respectively. Clients  20  and  22  comprise broker terminals used by Broker A and Broker B, respectively. Clients  24  and  26  comprise carrier terminals used by Carrier A and Carrier B, respectively. Each client is further understood to include a wired or wireless communications device, memory, one or more processors having processing circuitry, an input/output device with a display driver for connecting the client to an input/output (I/O) device, such as a display, a keyboard, and a mouse. The display driver transforms digital data into visual images perceptible by a user at the client capable of generating screen images visible on the display. In several forms, client is a personal computer, a laptop, a tablet, or a smart phone. 
         [0061]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , it is understood that one or more input modules can be generated by server  14 . Such modules are each configured to cause a graphical user interface to be rendered on a user&#39;s client machine, or computer to enable a user to input data relating to selection, scheduling, and delivery of a load (freight). Such interface renders features provided on the screen shots provided herein. Similarly, output modules are configured to display results of the data that is input by a user. 
         [0062]      FIG. 2  illustrates a flowchart for implementing user authentication and permissions to access through one or more interfaces the features and functionality of  FIG. 1  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. With reference to  FIG. 2 , a flow of logic that is executed in various embodiments, when implementing user authentication and permissions is illustrated. The process can start at step  200 . After start  200 , the process proceeds to step  201  where a user public page is presented at one or more clients where a user can input their credentials. After step  201 , the process proceeds to step  202  where the input user credentials are sent via HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) to server  14  (of  FIG. 1 ). After performing step  202 , the process proceeds to step  203  where a user is authenticated (with a userid and a password). If the user is authenticated, then the process proceeds to step  204 . If the user is not authenticated, the process proceeds to step  201 . In step  204 , the process compares user type and user group to determine which category a user is identified with including a customer interface at step  205 , a carrier interface at step  206  and a “Type N” interface at step  207 . Once a user has been identified and assigned to a user category, the process proceeds to step  208 . In step  208 , the process prepares permissions and views based on a user sub-type, such as “broker”, “customer”, and “account manager”. After performing step  208 , the process proceeds to step  209 . In step  209 , a completely functional interface is displayed to the authenticated (identified) and permissioned user. 
         [0063]      FIG. 3  illustrates a flowchart for displaying load data to users and clients and for selecting and transmitting temporal data requirements for shipping the load. With reference to  FIG. 3 , a flow of logic that is executed in various embodiments, when implementing the display of load data to users and clients and for selecting and transmitting temporal data requirements (date range and time range) is illustrated. The process can start at step  300 . In step  300 , a complete interface (with complete interface functionality) is displayed to a user at a specific client. After performing step  300 , the process proceeds to either step  301  or step  302 . In step  301 , a user searches for a load, then proceeds to step  302 . In step  302 , a user selects a load default from a list. After performing step  302 , the process proceeds to step  303  where a client sends a request to server  14  (of  FIG. 1 ). After performing step  303 , the process proceeds to step  304  where the server returns load information to the client. After performing step  304 , the process proceeds to step  305  where the client displays the load data. After performing step  305 , the process proceeds to step  306  where the user selects a waypoint temporal data input field (such as a range of dates and/or a range of times) for which a designated load is to be picked-up/delivered to a desired destination. After performing step  306 , the process proceeds to step  307  where the client displays a user interface with a temporal data selector (a date range and/or a time range). After performing step  308 , the process proceeds to step  308  where the user inputs required temporal data (date range and/or time range). After performing step  308 , the process proceeds to step  309  where the client transmits the selected temporal data to the server  14  (of  FIG. 1 ). After performing step  309 , the process proceeds to step  310  where the server stores the selected temporal data to an associated waypoint (a coordinate or location on the freight delivery path). 
         [0064]    As detailed in  FIG. 3 , temporal date/time range storage is provided for logistics purposes. For each “waypoint” in a freight delivery (begin, midpoint, end, etc.) on a load to be transported, there exist pick-up and drop-off dates and/or times. There exist five different options to fill the temporal field with data including: “Between”; “Before”; “After”; “At”; and “N/A” (not available). These dates and times are then parsed in different ways in order to distribute them to industry standard load boards, such as GetLoaded, Dat360, and Internet Truckstop. Such distribution is an optional feature. 
         [0065]    As used herein, the terms “carrier rate”, “carrier bid”, and “carrier quote” are used interchangeably until a carrier is fully signed on for a load, after which the designation becomes “carrier-on-board”. 
         [0066]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  together illustrate a flowchart for a customer selecting carrier bids, approving carrier rates, accepting carrier bids, and storing multiple customer approved bids on a load. With reference to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , a flow of logic that is executed in various embodiments, when implementing the display of load data to users and clients and for selecting and transmitting temporal data requirements (date range and time range) is illustrated. The process can start at step  400 . After step  400 , the process proceeds either to step  401  or step  402 . In step  401 , a customer searches for a load using a specific client. After performing step  401 , the process proceeds to step  402  where a user selects a load default from a list of loads. After performing step  402 , the process proceeds to step  403  where the client sends a request to the server  14  (of  FIG. 1 ). After step  403 , the process proceeds to step  404  where the server returns load information to the client. After step  404 , the process proceeds to step  405  where the clients displays load data. After step  405 , a query is made at step  406  as to whether a specific account type and load status is enabled to view bids. If not, the process proceeds to step  407  where a load is displayed without any bids. If enabled, the process proceeds to step  408  where all current carrier bids and/or quotes are displayed at a client (including multiple bids displayed concurrently). After performing step  408 , the process proceeds to step  409  where a customer selects a carrier bid from a list of currently submitted bids. After performing step  409 , the process proceeds to step  410  where a multi-variate query is made about four responses that can be taken after carrier bid information is displayed at a client. At step  410 , a user is presented with four choices. A first choice is triggered by a user selecting an approved button (on a user interface of the client) that causes the process to proceed to step  411 . A second choice is triggered by a user selecting a decline button (on a user interface of the client) that causes the process to proceed to step  422 . A third choice is triggered by a user selecting an add note/comment via a text box and submitting it that causes the process to proceed to step  423 . A fourth choice is triggered by a user selecting a click on name button (listing a static profile for a carrier) which proceeds to step  424 . After performing step  424 , the user then clicks on a back button to return the process back to step  410 . In step  411 , the customer approves the provided carrier rate. In step  422 , a customer denies a carrier rate and the process proceeds to step  414 . After a customer denies a rate at step  422 , the system changes the status of the bid relative to the customer&#39;s interface. In step  423 , a customer sends the carrier a message and the process proceeds to step  414 . After step  411 , the process proceeds to step  412  where the client sends approval to the server. After step  412 , the process proceeds to step  413  where the server marks the bid as approved. After step  414 , the process proceeds to step  414  where a notification is dispatched to the carrier and/or account representative. After step  414 , the process either proceeds back to step  409  or forward to step  415 . In step  415 , the server stores multiple customer approved bids on a load. After step  415 , the process proceeds to step  416  where individual carriers are notified of bid approval and asked to confirm their availability to deliver a specific load. After performing step  416 , the process proceeds to step  417  where the carrier responds by confirming their availability (to the server). After step  417 , the process proceeds to step  418  where the server sets the first carrier to respond to the load. After step  418 , the process proceeds to step  419  where the server updates the load past the bidding status. After step  419 , the process proceeds to step  420  where the server sends out notification to all non-conforming carriers that the specific load is closed (and not open for bid acceptance). More particularly, the term “closed” is applied to loads to denote that the load is delivered. After performing step  420 , the process proceeds to step  421  where the server sends out notification to the customer that a carrier has been set (or assigned) to carry their particularly load. At this point, the process terminates. 
         [0067]    As detailed in  FIG. 4 , a multiple quote and simultaneous approval process is disclosed. When a customer is logged in and look at quotes that have been submitted by various carriers, they are enabled with the ability to approve multiple carriers at the same time. Once this happens, an automated notification goes out to all carriers approved, requesting confirmation of their availability. The first carrier that logs into the website and provides an availability verification to complete the load in question is then changed to become the provider. The remaining carriers are then automatically notified that they were too slow to become the provider, and the load is no longer available. 
         [0068]      FIG. 5  illustrates a screen shot of a web page for a simple request for a broker for posting loads and identifying shippers and receivers of a type that would be displayed on the screen of one of the computers connected for communication with the processing circuitry of the server for the system of  FIG. 1 . More particularly, a cursor  501  is positioned over “Set Date &amp; Time” field  502  which provides a selectable navigation link that opens up a temporal range pop-up window  601  depicted in  FIG. 6 , below. 
         [0069]      FIG. 6  illustrates a screen shot of a web page for a date/time/selection menu that pops up when a user selects a “Set Date &amp; Time” field  502  in one of the shipper and received fields of  FIG. 5 . More particularly, pop-up menu  601  includes a temporal date range selection menu item  602  and a corresponding temporal time range selection menu  603  via which a user can select a temporal range (time and/or date) using a single click/drag of a mouse and cursor over the calendar displayed in selection menu  602 . A temporal date range is shown as selection field  606 . A selectable date identifier “At”  607  is selected in menu  601  corresponding with a single selected date shown in a date field  605  shown directly below. Another date indicated by menu item  604  representing Jan. 22, 2104 shows the current date via a round circle, whereas the “At” selected date will show up on the calendar via a rectangular surround feature corresponding with the date shown in date field  605 . Other date identifiers of menu  601  for selecting a date, or date range that are selectable include, “Between”, “Before”, “After”, and “Don&#39;t Set”. 
         [0070]      FIG. 7  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing a user “mousing-over” and selecting date range field  606  (with a cursor) of temporal date range selection menu  602  separate from selecting a time range  609  via a “between” time field selection  608  of a temporal date range selection menu  602 . Furthermore, a temporal time range selection menu  603  is also provided for selecting and inputting dates for respective date ranges. 
         [0071]      FIG. 8  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing a selected temporal range achieved in  FIG. 7 . More particularly, a cursor  801  is positioned over a selectable navigation date range link  802  that opens up the temporal range pop-up window  601  depicted in  FIG. 7 , above. 
         [0072]      FIG. 9  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing selection of a receiver “Set Date &amp; Time” field  902  by “mousing-over” a cursor  902  and selecting field  902 . More particularly, cursor p 01  is positioned over “Set Date &amp; Time”  902  which provides a selectable navigation link that opens up a temporal range pop-up window  601  depicted in  FIG. 10 , below. 
         [0073]      FIG. 10  illustrates a screen shot of a web page showing a selected temporal range for the pop-up menu of  FIG. 6  that pops up when a user selects a “Set Date &amp; Time” field  902  in the receiver field of  FIG. 9 . More particularly, pop-up menu  601  includes a temporal date range selection menu item  602  and a corresponding temporal time range selection menu  603  via which a user can select a temporal range (time and/or date) using a single click/drag of a mouse and cursor over the calendar displayed in selection menu  602 . A temporal date range is shown by selection field  1006 . A date identifier “Between”  1008  is selected in menu  601  corresponding with a range of dates shown in a date field  1005  shown directly below. Another date indicated representing Jan. 22, 2104 shows the current date via a round circle. Other date identifiers of menu  601  for selecting a date, or date range that are selectable include, “At”, “Before”, “After”, and “Don&#39;t Set”. 
         [0074]      FIG. 11  illustrates a screen shot of a web page for realizing the temporal range selected in  FIG. 10 . More particularly, a temporal date and time range  1102  and  1104  is provided for the shipper and the receiver, respectively. 
         [0075]      FIG. 12  illustrates a screen shot of a user login page having a login menu  1201  for receiving user login information including email adrees, and password information that enables permissioned login to features of the website portal described variously in  FIGS. 1-52 . 
         [0076]      FIG. 13  illustrates a screen shot of a customer dashboard illustrating a customer&#39;s specific freight requests, or loads that a particular customer has pending. Loads are shown in various stages in any scenario. One exemplary shown freight request for shipping a freight load from Seattle, Wash. to Key West, Fla. is shown in field  1302  when a “My Freight” menu item  1304  is selected with a mouse (or input device) via cursor  1301 . A draft load request  1306  is shown for a load that the customer is still working on, but is not yet fully filled in and submitted. In contrast, field  1302  shows a customer name  1312 , an in-house tracking number  1318  for identifying a load, an originating location identifier  1314  with a preferred date of pickup identifier  1316 , and a destination location identifier  1320  with a preferred date of drop-off identifier  1322 . Furthermore, field  1302  includes a truck icon  1308  that traverses along a line  1310  from start location identifier  1314  at one end to finish location identifier  1320  at an opposite end. Position of truck icon  1308  is provide along line  1310  at a location corresponding with the distance presently travelled by the carrier with the cargo, as determined by GPS monitoring of the actual carrier (and cargo). In this way, a user of the system can monitor status (relative position) of the cargo and carrier relative to the total distance being traveled between the start location and the finish location during the delivery. 
         [0077]      FIG. 14  illustrates a screen shot showing customer load details in a detail menu  1402  including status of a load submitted and pending, as well as status of carrier approval. A status indicator field  1404  shows the status of a shipping request under review. 
         [0078]      FIG. 15  illustrates a screen shot showing a customer new load data entry input menu  1506  obtained by selecting a “Create New Load” identifier  1504  with a mouse cursor  1502 . Menu  1506  includes an explanation, or “How it works” explanation field  1508 , a “What are you shipping and where is it going?” field  1510 , a “Weight &amp; Dimensions” field  1512 , and a “Shipping &amp; Receiving Dates” field  1514 . 
         [0079]      FIG. 16  illustrates load details including a newly created load realized by accessing “Create New Load” field  1504  with a temporal range pop-up menu  1603 . Menu  1603  is generated by selecting “Preferred Earliest Pickup Date” field  1602  within field  1514  using a mouse cursor  1601 . 
         [0080]      FIG. 17  illustrates a flowchart for depicting account manager load interaction flow and privileges in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. With reference to  FIG. 17 , a flow of logic that is executed in various embodiments, when implementing the creation and submission of load data is illustrated. The process can start at step  1700 . After step  1700 , the process proceeds to step  1701  where a load is created by a user. After performing step  1701 , the process proceeds to step  1702  where a query is made as to whether the created load has required data (for submission to the load boards). If so, the process proceeds to step  1704 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1703 . After step  1703 , the process terminates. In step  1703 , the load does not have required data and cannot be posted to the board(s). In step  1705 , the load board hooks are fired. After step  1706 , carriers add bids to the load on the load board. After performing step  1706 , the process proceeds to step  1707  where a broker approves a carrier (from those that have added a bid to the load). After performing step  1707 , the process proceeds to step  1708  where the load status changes to “waiting for pickup”. After performing step  1708 , the process proceeds to step  1709  where “waiting for pickup” hooks are fired that trigger a series of system events that are mandatory for that status of the load and operation of the system. After performing step  1709 , the process proceeds to step  1710  where a broker changes load status to “on road”. After performing step  1710 , the process proceeds to step  1711  where the load status on the system actually changes to “on road”. After performing step  1711 , the process proceeds to step  1712  where “on road” hooks are fired. After performing step  1712 , the process proceeds to step  1713  where the load status changed to “load delivered”. After performing step  1713 , the process proceeds to step  1714  where “load delivered” hooks are fired. After performing step  1714 , the load is marked “BOL received”. After performing step  1715 , the process proceeds to step  1716  where “BOL received” hooks are fired. After performing step  1716 , the process proceeds to step  1717  where broker privileges are changed to “view only” status. After step  1717 , the process is terminated. 
         [0081]    As detailed in  FIG. 17 , the disclosed system provides for account management and accountability for brokers. First, account representatives (or brokers) cannot modify a load after it has been delivered. Secondly, all management of load after delivery is shifted to other departments. For example, after the shift (or lock-out), an exemplary account representative will only be enabled with the ability to view load and account information. Thirdly, only the accounting department can close a load after it has been delivered. Finally, only an administrator can modify the load outside of the normal flow process. A normal flow process for a brokered process proceeds sequentially, as follows: created -&gt;submitted to boards-&gt;carriers add bids-&gt;broker approves carrier-&gt;load on road-&gt;load delivered-&gt;BOL (Bill of Lading) received-&gt;load closed (after billing). A normal flow process for a dispatched customer&#39;s flow process proceeds sequentially, as follows: draft-&gt;submitted to rep-&gt;submitted to boards-&gt;carriers add bids-&gt;customer approves bids-&gt;carrier signifies availability-&gt;load on road-&gt;load delivered-&gt;BOL received-&gt;load closed (after billing). 
         [0082]      FIGS. 18A and 18B  together illustrate a flowchart depicting a system for rating carriers having checks and balances in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. With reference to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , a flow of logic that is executed in various embodiments, when implementing a system of checks and balances in the process of rating carriers is illustrated. The process can start at step  1800 . In step  1800 , carrier data is modified from user input or external data. After performing step  1800 , the process proceeds to step  1802 . In step  1801 , the process can start when a user selects a black flag under a carrier profile. After performing step  1801 , the process proceeds to step  1802 . In step  1802 , a carrier status update starts. After performing step  1802 , the process proceeds to step  1803  where a query is implemented to determine whether a carrier has common or contract authority. If the carrier does have authority, then the process proceeds to step  1804 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1805 . In step  1804 , a query is implemented to determine if the carrier has cargo and auto insurance. If the carrier does have the insurance, the process proceeds to step  1807 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1805 . In step  1807 , a query is implemented to determine if the carrier is flagged “black”. If the carrier has been flagged “black”, the process proceeds to step  1805 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1808 . In step  1805 , the carrier is flagged “red”. In step  1808 , a query is implemented to determine if a carrier&#39;s insurance has been internally flagged as a high risk. If so, the process proceeds to step  1809 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1811 . After performing step  1805 , the process proceeds to step  1806  where carrier bids can be added, but not approved for any load. After performing step  1808 , the process proceeds to step  1809  where a carrier is flagged “yellow”. After performing step  1809 , the process proceeds to step  1810  where a carriers updated data and status are saved to a database. In step  1811 , a query is implemented to determine if a carrier contract or common authority is pending. If so, the process proceeds to step  1809 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1812 . In step  1812 , a query is implemented to determine if carrier cargo or auto insurance will expire within “X” days (X being a determined or set number of days, such as 30 days). If so, the process proceeds to step  1809 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1813 . In step  1813 , a query is implemented to determine if a carrier has proper attached paperwork to their profile. If so, the process proceeds to step  1814 . If not, the process proceeds to step  1809 . In step  1814 , a carrier is flagged “green”. After performing step  1814 , the process proceeds to step  1816  and to step  1810 . In step  1816 , the carrier bids can be approved and they can be assigned to the load. After performing step  1816 , the process terminates. In step  1815 , a broker determines if carrier status is relevant on a case-by-case basis. After performing step  1815 , the process proceeds to step  1806  and step  1816 . 
         [0083]    As detailed in  FIG. 18 , the disclosed system provides for carrier compliance including an inter-office black list. Carriers are color coded for usability: namely, green (safe/insured), yellow (elevated risk/close to losing insurance), and red (risky/lost insurance). Notifications are provided if a particular carrier loses their insurance on a load (this data is pulled from both third-party systems and applicant&#39;s own internal management system). Such notifications are shown by item  2002  (of  FIG. 20 ) and items  2110  and  2112  (of  FIG. 21 ). Current logic for color coding is as follows: red is the worse case indicating no insurance; yellow is between red and green and indicates that insurance is soon at risk of loss; and green indicates insurance is in place and the carrier does not present a know risk. In addition, or optionally, black can be used to indicate that a carrier has been internally black-flagged, and should not be considered for any deliveries. If insurance is flagged due to an imminent lapse, a yellow designation is applied. If the carrier has neither common or contract authority, then a yellow designation is used. If no cargo or auto insurance is in place, a red designation is used. If cargo or auto insurance is going to expire in less than  30  days, then a yellow designation is used. All other cases will be provided with a green designation. Other suitable criteria for setting a risk-based color designation on a carrier include using information as to whether they have a W-9/EIN on file with applicant, as well as whether there is an existing contract in place with the carrier. 
         [0084]      FIGS. 19A and 19B  together illustrate a flowchart depicting logic behind selection of a temporal range in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The process can start at step  1900 . In step  1900 , a user opens a temporal modal. After step  1900 , the process proceeds to step  1901  where a user provides input from a mouse (or input device) at a client. From step  1901 , a user proceeds to one of steps  1902 ,  1906 ,  1910 ,  1914 ,  1918 ,  1921 ,  1923 ,  1925 ,  1929 ,  1933 , and  1936 . In step  1902 , the user selects “BETWEEN”. After step  1902 , the process proceeds to step  1903  where the selected type is set. After step  1903 , a query is made to determine if the dates are set. If the dates are set, the process proceeds to step  1905  where days between the set (or selected) dates are highlighted (inclusive). After step  1905 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . If the dates are not set, the process proceeds to step  1901 . In step  1906 , the user selects “BEFORE”. After step  1906 , the process proceeds to step  1907  where the selected type is set. After step  1907 , a query is made at step  1908  to determine if the dates are set. If the dates are set, the process proceeds to step  1909  where days before the set (or selected) end date are highlighted (inclusive). After step  1909 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . If the dates are not set, the process proceeds to step  1901 . In step  1910 , the user selects “AFTER”. After step  1910 , the process proceeds to step  1911  where the selected type is set. After step  1911 , a query is made at step  1912  to determine if the dates are set. If the dates are set, the process proceeds to step  1913  where days after the set (or selected) start date are highlighted (inclusive). After step  1913 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . If the dates are not set, the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0085]    In step  1914 , the user selects “AT”. After step  1914 , the process proceeds to step  1915  where the selected type is set. After step  1915 , a query is made at step  19126  to determine if the dates are set. If the dates are set, the process proceeds to step  1917  where only the start date is highlighted (inclusive). After step  1917 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . If the dates are not set, the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0086]    In step  1918 , the user selects “N/A” (not available). After step  1918 , the process proceeds to step  1919  where the selected type is set. After step  1919 , the process proceeds to step  1920  where all highlights are removed. After step  1920 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0087]    In step  1921 , the user selects “USE TIME”. After step  1921 , the process proceeds to step  1922  where the display of time input is toggled. After step  1922 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0088]    In step  1923 , the user selects a time input. After step  1923 , the process proceeds to step  1924  where the user inputs time. After step  1924 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0089]    In step  1925 , the user selects or clicks on a date. After step  1925 , the process proceeds to step  1926  where type is set to “AT”. After step  1926 , the process proceeds to step  1927  where start is set to the date selected. After step  1927 , the process proceeds to step  1928  where only the start date is highlighted. After step  1928 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0090]    In step  1929 , the user clicks and drags between two dates. After step  1929 , the process proceeds to step  1930  where the type is set to “BETWEEN”. After step  1930 , the process proceeds to step  1931  where a user sets start and end to first and last dates selected. After step  1931 , the process proceeds to step  1932  where days between selected dates are highlighted. After step  1932 , the process proceeds to step  1901 . 
         [0091]    In step  1933 , the user selects “OK”. After step  1933 , the process proceeds to step  1934  where a temporal timeframe string is prepared. After step  1934 , the process proceeds to step  1935  where the timeframe string is passed to a parent object. After step  1935 , the process proceeds to step  1937  where the modal is closed. 
         [0092]    In step  1936 , the user selects “CANCEL”. After step  1936 , the process proceeds to step  1937  where the modal is closed. 
         [0093]      FIG. 20  illustrates a screen shot for a carrier profile for “FDC Enterprises LLC” to access through one or more interfaces the features and functionality of  FIG. 1  in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. More particularly, the carrier profile of  FIG. 20  shows 
         [0094]      FIG. 21  illustrates an account manager/broker screen shot depicting a load profile with quotes attached to a load with carrier ratings. More particularly, 
         [0095]      FIG. 22  illustrates an account manager/broker screen shot depicting a menu for interacting with a carrier rate on a load menu. Multiple quotes from unique sources (indicated by carriers  2106  and  2108 ) are shown, as further previously depicted by reference numeral  408  of  FIG. 4B . More particularly, a note text field  2202  enables a user to input comments relating to that carrier bid and a selectable “Approve” button  2204  and “Decline” button  2206  enable a user to indicate approval or decline of a particular carrier bid. 
         [0096]      FIG. 23  illustrates a broker-side screen shot depicting a customer profile. More particularly, an “Account” type display field  2302  is shown above a “Loads” type display field  2308 . Field  2302  includes an “Account Type” field category  2304  with a presently displayed “Fully Brokered” field value, or visual indicia that is further represented by one of a series of vehicle representations by vehicle icon  2305 . Field  2304  correlates with item  406  in  FIG. 4A . 
         [0097]      FIG. 24  illustrates a broker-side screen shot depicting a brand new load. A cursor is “moused-over” a preferred equipment “Unspecified” field  2402  which generates pop-up menu  2502  in  FIG. 25 , below. 
         [0098]      FIG. 25  illustrates a screen shot depicting the selection of equipment for the new load depicted in  FIG. 25 . More particularly, pop-up menu  2502  depicts a list of unique trailer types that can be selected by a user via menu  2502 . The list of unique trailer types is queried from a database of industry standard trailer types and transportation methods (including intermodal). A search box field  2504  is also provided for inputting and searching the database for a specific type of trailer or transportation method. 
         [0099]      FIG. 26  illustrates a screen shot depicting a new load and adding a new line item to a customer&#39;s invoice. More particularly, a pop-up menu  2602  is used to add a line item to a customer invoice based on industry-specific needs. The data input via menu  2602  is automatically provided as input into an accounting management program, such as Quick Books™. 
         [0100]      FIG. 27  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of the line item added to the customer&#39;s invoice of  FIG. 26 . More particularly, “Tarp/Tailgate” field  2702  has been added along with a value field entry  2704  of $150. 
         [0101]      FIG. 28  illustrates a screen shot depicting the ability to add a shipper and a receiver for a designated city and state. A “Route” data entry field  2802  is provided with a “Shipper” data entry field  2804  and a “Receiver” data entry field  2806 . Shipper waypoint location and load information is entered by a user into field  2804 . Receiver waypoint location and load information is entered by a user into field  2806 . 
         [0102]      FIG. 29  illustrates a screen shot depicting a pop-up menu  2902  while selecting a temporal date range. More particularly, a “Between” date range selection feature  2904  has been selected to enable a single tactile input gesture (such as click-and-drag operation) for selecting a range of dates. 
         [0103]      FIG. 30  illustrates a screen shot depicting the pop-up menu  2902  of  FIG. 29  while selecting a temporal time range. A selected date range is shown for a “Shipper” as subsequently depicted in  FIG. 32 . Encircled “5” indicates the present date. 
         [0104]      FIG. 31  illustrates a screen shot depicting the pop-up menu  2902  of  FIGS. 29 and 30  while selecting a temporal “after” time range  3104  shown for a “Reciever” as subsequently depicted in  FIG. 32 . More particularly, all dates after (and including) Feb. 19, 2014 are selected. 
         [0105]      FIG. 32  illustrates a screen shot depicting a realized selected temporal range implemented via actions depicted in  FIGS. 29-31 . A selected date range  3202  and  3204  is shown for both the “Shipper” and the “Receiver”, respectively. Additionally, a “Weight” data entry field  3206  has received an input of “3T” (lb.). 
         [0106]      FIG. 33  illustrates a screen shot depicting automatically converted units of weight for a specific cargo over that entered in the screen shot of  FIG. 32 . “Weight” data entry field  3206  has been automatically converted in units (from tons) into pounds (lb.). Additionally, automatic conversions of units, such as English and metric unit measures are implemented via such system and feature. Finally, a cursor  3201  is “moused-over” “POST TO LOAD BOARD” button which triggers posting of the input information to the load board. 
         [0107]      FIG. 34  illustrates a screen shot depicting a load status change “PUT ON HOLD” designated by item  3402  resulting from selection of a “POST TO LOAD BOARDS” field  3203  (in  FIG. 33 ). Further details of the load status change are provided in  FIG. 17 , above. 
         [0108]      FIG. 35  illustrates a screen shot depicting the adding of a carrier quote where permissions change the rate and “XYZ TRUCKING” is added. A notifications message window  3502  is shown after selecting “Notifications” selection item  3504 . 
         [0109]      FIG. 36  illustrates a screen shot depicting the addition of a second carrier quote indicated by reference item  3602  to provide for multiple quotes. Item  3602  represents a rate of $3,500 for “XYZ Transport” which comprises an “Open Quote”. 
         [0110]      FIG. 37  illustrates a screen shot depicting a carrier quote menu. More particularly, a cursor  3701  is “moused-over” a “No Equipment Specified” menu selection item  3702  which causes pop-up menu  3802  to be enabled in  FIG. 38 . 
         [0111]      FIG. 38  illustrates a screen shot depicting a pop-up menu for adding carrier quote equipment. More particularly, pop-up menu  3802  depicts a list of unique trailer types that can be selected by a user via menu  3802 . The list of unique trailer types is queried from a database of industry standard trailer types and transportation methods (including intermodal). A search box field is also provided for inputting and searching the database for a specific type of trailer or transportation method. 
         [0112]      FIG. 39  illustrates a screen shot depicting realized changes of carrier quote equipment type from actions taken by a user depicted previously in  FIG. 37  and  FIG. 38 . 
         [0113]      FIG. 40  illustrates a screen shot depicting the addition of a note to a carrier. More particularly, “XYZ Trucking” text input field  4002  includes a note input field  4004  in which indicia, or text  4006  has been input by a user. 
         [0114]      FIG. 41  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of the added note input in  FIG. 40 . 
         [0115]      FIG. 42  illustrates a screen shot depicting realizing equipment changes for the listed carrier with the added note and approval of “XYZ TRUCKING”. A cursor  4201  is “moused-over” an “Approved” selection button, when clicked, causes the identified carrier to be approved on the load. A “Decline” selection button  4204  is also provided for declining that carrier. 
         [0116]      FIG. 43  illustrates a screen shot depicting realized changes for approved carrier “XYZ TRUCKING” resulting from selection of “Approved” selection button  4204  (in  FIG. 42 ). In addition, a “Carrier” field  4302  now shows “XYZ Trucking”. An “Equipment” field  4304  shows “Cargo Van”. A carrier pay field  4306  shows “$3,900”. 
         [0117]      FIG. 44  illustrates a screen shot depicting creation of carrier rate paperwork. By selecting a lock icon  4308  above carrier pay field  4306  using cursory  4401 , it creates paperwork as shown below with reference to  FIGS. 45 and 46 . 
         [0118]      FIG. 45  illustrates a screen shot depicting a pop-up screen  4502  that provides a secondary check to a user indicating that this operation is desired by the user. A user is presented with an “OK” selection button  4504  and a “Cancel” selection button  4506  for respectively launching or cancelling the “lock” to respective system data and limits the ability for values to be changed, such as permission-locking user access to only administrative or broker level personnel (other users will be prevented from unlocking the data and making changes). 
         [0119]      FIG. 46  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of carrier rate confirmation paperwork which is triggered as a result of selecting “OK” button  4504  in  FIG. 45 . As a result, “Paperwork” menu portion  4602  is shown having an added “Carrier Rate Confirmation” item  4604 . A carrier pay rate item  4606  is also provided as “$3,900”. 
         [0120]      FIG. 47  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of customer rate confirmation paperwork. A cursor is shown selecting item  4606  which, in a locked state, generates a “disabled feature” icon  4702 . 
         [0121]      FIG. 48  illustrates a screen shot depicting selection of change of load status to “IN TRANSIT”. A cursor  4801  is shown selecting “MOVE TO IN TRANSIT” button  4802  which causes a screen display change represented below in  FIG. 49 . 
         [0122]      FIG. 49  illustrates a screen shot depicting realization of selection of the changed load status in  FIG. 48 . A “MOVE TO DELIVERED” button  4902  is then provided for selection by a user. 
         [0123]      FIG. 50  illustrates a screen shot depicting added notes to a load with carrier permissions to view. A cursory  5001  is provided (hovers) over a carrier note permissions icon  5002 . A tool tips, or pop-up box  5004  is generated to display the current carrier note permissions status. 
         [0124]      FIG. 51  illustrates a screen shot depicting that selection is being to enable viewing by the carrier of note text. 
         [0125]    In compliance with the statute, the subject matter disclosed herein has been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the claims are not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise example embodiments. The claims are thus to be afforded full scope as literally worded, and to be appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.