The Stop File is a spreadsheet that contains the customers’ order and delivery information. Key fields represented in the Stop File include order volume, required delivery dates, customer address, and any special delivery rules; all critical information the software needs to build the routes. Optional data fields can also be used to manage customer schedules and territories, provide statistical data, or generate reports, and/or generate additional Route Files.
If you already have a Stop File, or a spreadsheet with the required customer information, it can be used in the project so long as it contains the required data columns. If you do not already have a Stop File, a new one can be created that will automatically populate the necessary header columns and allow manual input of all customer data.
Create a New Stop File
- Select File > Open > Stop, or File > New > Stop from the menu.
- Enter each customer’s data directly into each spreadsheet column, or double-click each row to launch the Stop Dialog box and enter all the data for each customer in one window.
- Stop File Fields and Descriptions Table identifies and explains each field that is required or recommended to be used in each Stop File.
The Stop Dialog box is divided into five sections:
- General: Add the General information, including customer name, account number (unique identifiers), address, type of symbol, route and stop numbers (if predetermined), fixed time, EqCodes, and truck size restriction.
- Location: Add Location information, symbol, and color code options. Long/Lat will be added later when the completed Stop File is geocoded.
- Stop Volume: Add Volumes and unload rate information.
- Time Windows: Add Time Windows (Open/Close) and pattern (days of the week); use military time (1:30PM = 1330), and enter Earliest/Latest Date, Buffers, and Penalty (if used).
- User Fields: Add the field data for each field listed (Preferences > Configuration).
Figure 29–Stop File Dialog Box
When all entries have been completed for the customer, select Close > Accept to close the box.
Repeat as necessary for each individual record.
After all customer data has been entered into the Stop File:
- Geocode the Stop File to locate the correct Lat/Long for each record in the file (see Geocoding Records).
- Save the updated Stop File in the DirectRoute Data Folder.
- Select File > Save, or File > Save As, and assign a name to the file.