AU2016101320A4 - Distributed delivery system - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract A computer-implemented method for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item is provided. The method includes creating, in a computer system, a group associated with the sender. The method further includes receiving, from a computer system of the 5 courier, a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job, the first set of parameters indicative of delivery capabilities of the courier. Moreover, the method includes assigning the courier to the group based on the first set of parameters, and storing data defining the group in a storage medium. The method also includes receiving, from a computer system of the sender, a request for a quote to deliver the item to a receiver, 10 the request including a second set of parameters for completing delivery of the item and automatically providing the quote to the computer system of the sender based on the first and second sets of parameters. The method also receives, from the computer system of the sender, instructions to deliver the item and automatically sends job instructions to the computer system of the courier to proceed with delivery of the item.

Description

Distributed delivery system Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for facilitating the transportation and delivery of physical goods by courier services. In particular the disclosure relates to a distributed delivery system whereby senders who wish to transport goods can connect with and engage couriers.

Background

Individuals and businesses often use courier services to deliver physical goods. However, the courier’s capacity may be under-utilised and couriers often do not have the ability to contact senders in order to seek out delivery jobs. A courier may also have certain requirements as to their capacity to pick up and deliver goods. Accordingly, there is a need to provide systems and methods to connect senders of goods with couriers who can offer a delivery service, and to provide flexibility to couriers.

Reference to any prior art in the specification is not an acknowledgment or suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be understood, regarded as relevant, and/or combined with other pieces of prior art by a skilled person in the art.

Summary of the invention

In a first aspect, the present invention is directed to a computer-implemented method for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item, the method comprising: creating, at a server, a group associated with the sender based on one or more logistics rules; receiving, at a server, from a courier computing device, a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job, the first set of parameters indicative of delivery capabilities of the courier; assigning, by the server, the courier to the group based on a comparison between the first set of parameters and the one or more logistics rules; storing, by the server, data defining the group in a storage medium; receiving, at the server from a sender computer, a price quote request to deliver the item to a receiver, the request including a second set of parameters for completing delivery of the item; automatically providing a price quote, from the server to the sender computer, based on the first and second sets of parameters; receiving, at the server, from the sender computer, a deliver request to deliver the item; automatically sending job instructions to the courier computing device to proceed with delivery of the item.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a computer-implemented method for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item, the method comprising: receiving, from multiple courier computing devices, one or more job classifications having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job; storing the one or more job classifications from the multiple courier computing devices in a job classification database, wherein the one or more job classifications are stored in relation with one or more groups the couriers are associated with; receiving, from a sender computer of a group, a price quote request, the price quote request comprising a job request including item information and delivery information; comparing the job request with one or more job classifications in the job classification database associated with the sender’s group to determine a matched courier; automatically generating a price quote based on the item information, pricing data provided by the matched courier and one or more group rules; transmitting the price quote to the sender computer; receiving, from the sender computer, a delivery request; automatically sending job instructions to the computing device of the matched courier based on the delivery request.

In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item, the system comprising a processing unit and a storage medium comprising instructions which, when processed by the processing unit perform the steps of: receiving, from multiple courier computing devices, one or more job classifications having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job; storing the one or more job classifications from the multiple courier computing devices in a job classification database, wherein the one or more job classifications are stored in relation with one or more groups the couriers are associated with; receiving, from a sender computer of a group, a price quote request, the price quote request comprising a job request including item information and delivery information; comparing the job request with one or more job classifications in the job classification database associated with the sender’s group to determine a matched courier; automatically generating a price quote based on the item information, pricing data provided by the matched courier and one or more group rules; transmitting the price quote to the sender computer; receiving, from the sender computer, a delivery request; automatically sending job instructions to the computing device of the matched courier based on the delivery request.

Also disclosed is a computer-implemented method for matching a sender to a courier for the delivery of physical goods, including the steps of: receiving, from a courier, at least one job classification having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job, the first set of parameters including a pricing schedule, storing the at least one job classification in a database of job classifications; receiving, from a sender, a job request having a second set of parameters for completing a job, comparing the job request with the database to determine whether the second set of parameters matches the first set of parameters, and in the event that the job request is matched by one or more job classifications, determining an automated quote based on the pricing schedule of the respective one or more matched job classifications, presenting each determined automated quote to the sender, and receiving, from the sender, a selection of one the automated quotes.

The method may further include upon the selection of the automated quote by the sender, generating a job instruction based on the job request, and sending the job instructions to the matching courier.

In one embodiment, the pricing schedule further includes at least one of a weight based rate specified by the courier, a distance based rate specified by the courier, one or more labour-defining characteristics, surcharges specified by the courier, a minimum value limit specified by the courier, and a maximum value limit specified by the courier.

The determination of the automated quote may include calculating a final price based on the following: the addition of the weight based rate, the distance based rate and the one or more labour-defining characteristics, and the application of surcharges.

The first set of parameters may further include area characteristics, wherein the area characteristics are defined by: presenting a map to the courier, the map overlaid with locations having area boundaries; receiving the courier selection of at least one location; receiving the courier selection of a zoning definition for each selected location.

The zoning definition may include defining each selected location as one of a pick-up zone, a drop-off zone, or a pick-up and drop-off zone.

The first set of parameters may further include product category information, wherein the product category information includes whether the physical goods to be delivered are packaged or unpackaged.

Comparing the job request with the database may include determining whether the second set of parameters matches one or more particular parameters of the first set of first set of parameters. The one or more particular parameters may be configured by the courier.

The method may further include in response to a courier selection of an enable status command for the at least one job classification, storing the enabled job classification as an active job classification available to be compared with the job request.

The method may further include in response to a courier selection of a disable status command for the at least one job classification, storing the disabled job classification as an inactive job classification which cannot be compared with the job request.

The method may further include receiving timing information from the courier which defines one or more time intervals in which the at least one job classification is stored as an active job classification.

The method may further include receiving funds from the sender for the generated job instruction, holding the funds until receipt of a confirmation that the job instruction is complete, and in response to receiving the confirmation, transferring the funds to the courier.

The confirmation may include a courier authorisation that the job instruction is complete. The confirmation may also include a sender authorisation or a receiver authorisation that the job instruction is complete. The method may further include that if the sender authorisation or the receiver authorisation is not received within a predetermined time interval, transferring the funds to the courier.

Also provided is a system for matching a sender to a courier for the delivery of physical goods, the system comprising a processing unit and a storage medium comprising instructions which, when processed by the processing unit perform the steps of: receiving, from a courier device, one or more job classifications having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job, the first set of parameters including pricing data and area characteristics, wherein the area characteristics are defined by: presenting a map in a user interface of a courier device, the map overlaid with locations having area boundaries; receiving a selection of at least one location from the courier device; and receiving a selection of a zoning definition for each selected location from the courier device, storing the at least one job classification in the storage medium, receiving, from a sender device, a job request having a second set of parameters for completing a delivery job, comparing the job request with the one or more stored job classifications, upon obtaining a match between the job request and a subset of the one or more stored job classifications, calculating a price quote based on the pricing data of the respective one or more matched job classifications and the second set of parameters, and presenting each of the calculated price quotes to the sender.

Also provided is a computer-implemented method for matching a sender to a courier for the delivery of physical goods, including the steps of: receiving, from a courier, at least one job classification having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job, the first set of parameters including: a pricing schedule, area characteristics defined by: presenting a map to the courier, the map overlaid with locations having area boundaries; receiving the courier selection of at least one location; and receiving the courier selection of a zoning definition for each selected location, and product category information storing the at least one job classification in a database of job classifications; receiving, from a sender, a job request having a second set of parameters for completing a job, comparing the job request with the database to determine whether the second set of parameters matches the first set of parameters, and in the event that the job request is matched by one or more job classifications, determining an automated quote based on the pricing schedule of the respective one or more matched job classifications, presenting each determined automated quote to the sender, receiving, from the sender, a selection of one the automated quotes, upon the selection of the automated quote, generating a job instruction based on the job request, sending the job instructions to the matching courier.

As used herein, except where the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" and variations of the term, such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude further additives, components, integers or steps.

Further aspects of the present invention and further embodiments of the aspects described in the preceding paragraphs will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 is an example of an information processing system;

Figure 2 is an example of a hand-held electronic device;

Figure 3 is an example of a client-server environment which can implement the system disclosed herein;

Figure 4A and 4B are flowcharts showing the steps performed by the courier using the system disclosed herein;

Fig 4C is a flowchart showing the steps performed by a sender using the system disclosed herein;

Figs 4D and 4E are flowcharts showing the steps performed by the system disclosed herein;

Figures 5A to 5C are examples of courier interfaces for showing one or more job classifications for the courier;

Figures 6A to 6C are examples of courier interfaces for creating a new job application;

Figure 7 is an example of a courier interface for showing details of an area;

Figures 8A to 8C are examples of courier interfaces for managing location settings;

Figure 9 is an example of a courier interface for managing category settings;

Figures 10A to 10C are examples of courier interfaces for managing automated quote settings;

Figure 11 shows an example price calculation for an automated quote;

Figures 12A to 12E show example section displays for the pricing section options shown on the automated quote settings interfaces of Figures 10A to 10C;

Figure 13 is an example user interface screens for a sender and/or receiver.

Figure 14A and 14D are flowcharts showing the steps performed by the system disclosed herein;

Figure 14B is a flowchart showing the steps performed by a sender device using the system disclosed herein;

Figure 14C is a flowchart showing the steps performed by a courier device using the system disclosed herein.

Figure 14B is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for creating a closed user group and sending job requests at a sender device

Detailed description of the embodiments Computer processing system

Aspects of the present disclosure are implemented on a system of one or more electronic devices interconnected through one or more communication networks. The electronic device is, or includes, a computer processing system.

Figure 1 provides a block diagram of one example of a computer processing system 100. System 100 as illustrated in Figure 1 is a general-purpose computer processing system. It will be appreciated that Figure 1 does not illustrate all functional or physical components of a computer processing system. For example, no power supply or power supply interface has been depicted, however system 100 either carries a power supply or is configured for connection to a power supply (or both). It will also be appreciated that the particular type of computer processing system determines the appropriate hardware and architecture, and alternative computer processing systems suitable for implementing aspects of the invention may have additional, alternative, or fewer components than those depicted, combine two or more components, and/or have a different configuration or arrangement of components.

The computer processing system 100 includes at least one processing unit 102. The processing unit 102 may be a single computer-processing device (e.g. a central processing unit, graphics processing unit, or other computational device), or may include a plurality of computer processing devices. In some instances all processing is performed by processing unit 102, however in other instances processing may also, or alternatively, be performed by remote processing devices accessible and useable (either in a shared or dedicated manner) by the system 100.

Through a communications bus 104 the processing unit 102 is in data communication with a one or more machine-readable storage (memory) devices that store instructions and/or data for controlling operation of the processing system 100. In this instance system 100 includes a system memory 106 (e.g. a BIOS), volatile memory 108 (e.g. random access memory such as one or more DRAM modules), and nonvolatile memory 110 (e.g. one or more hard disk or solid state drives).

System 100 also includes one or more interfaces, indicated generally by 112, via which system 100 interfaces with various devices and/or networks. Generally speaking, other devices may be physically integrated with system 100, or may be physically separate. Where a device is physically separate from system 100, connection between the device and system 100 may be via wired or wireless hardware and communication protocols, and may be a direct or an indirect (e.g. networked) connection.

Wired connection with other devices/networks may be by any appropriate standard or proprietary hardware and connectivity protocols. For example, system 100 may be configured for wired connection with other devices/communications networks by one or more of: USB; FireWire; eSATA; Thunderbolt; Ethernet; OS/2; Parallel; Serial; HDMI; DVI; VGA; SCSI; AudioPort. Other wired connections are, of course, possible.

Wireless connection with other devices/networks may similarly be by any appropriate standard or proprietary hardware and communications protocols. For example, system 100 may be configured for wireless connection with other devices/communications networks using one or more of: infrared; Bluetooth; Wi-Fi; near field communications (NFC); Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), long term evolution (LTE), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA). Other wireless connections are, of course, possible.

Generally speaking, the devices to which system 100 connects - whether by wired or wireless means - allow data to be input into/received by system 100 for processing by the processing unit 102, and data to be output by system 100. Example devices are described below, however it will be appreciated that not all computerprocessing systems include all mentioned devices, and that additional and alternative devices to those mentioned may well be used.

For example, system 100 may include or connect to one or more input devices by which information/data is input into (received by) system 100. Such input devices may include physical buttons, alphanumeric input devices (e.g. keyboards), pointing devices (e.g. mice, track pads and the like), touchscreens, touchscreen displays, microphones, accelerometers, proximity sensors, GPS devices and the like. System 100 may also include or connect to one or more output devices controlled by system 100 to output information. Such output devices may include devices such as indicators (e.g. LED, LCD or other lights), displays (e.g. CRT displays, LCD displays, LED displays, plasma displays, touch screen displays), audio output devices such as speakers, vibration modules, and other output devices. System 100 may also include or connect to devices which may act as both input and output devices, for example memory devices (hard drives, solid state drives, disk drives, compact flash cards, SD cards and the like) which system 100 can read data from and/or write data to, and touch-screen displays which can both display (output) data and receive touch signals (input).

System 100 may also connect to communications networks (e.g. the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, a personal hotspot etc.) to communicate data to and receive data from networked devices, which may themselves be other computer processing systems.

It will be appreciated that system 100 may be any suitable computer processing system such as, by way of non-limiting example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a netbook computer, tablet computer, a smart phone, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a web appliance. Typically, system 100 includes at least user input and output devices 114 and (if the system is to be networked) a communications interface 116 for communication with a network 118. The number and specific types of devices which system 100 includes or connects to depend on the particular type of system 100. For example, if system 100 is a desktop computer it typically connects to physically separate devices such as (at least) a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g. mouse), a display device (e.g. a LCD display). Alternatively, if system 100 is a laptop computer it typically includes (in a physically integrated manner) a keyboard, pointing device, a display device, and an audio output device. Further alternatively, if system 100 is a tablet device or smartphone, it typically includes (in a physically integrated manner) a touchscreen display (providing both input means and display output means), an audio output device, and one or more physical buttons.

System 100 stores or has access to instructions and data which, when processed by the processing unit 102, configure system 100 to receive, process, and output data. Such instructions and data typically include an operating system such as Microsoft Windows®, Apple OSX, Apple IOS, Android, Unix, or Linux.

System 100 also stores or has access to instructions and data (i.e. software) which, when processed by the processing unit 102, configure system 100 to perform various computer-implemented processes/methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention (as described below). It will be appreciated that in some cases part or all of a given computer-implemented method are performed by system 100 itself, while in other cases processing may be performed by other devices in data communication with system 100.

Instructions and data are stored on a non-transient machine-readable medium accessible to system 100. For example, instructions and data may be stored on nontransient memory 110. Instructions may be transmitted to/received by system 100 via a data signal in a transmission channel enabled (for example) by a wired or wireless network connection.

Electronic device

In one embodiment, the present invention is implemented using an electronic device such as a PC, a laptop, a device with a touchscreen display, for example a smart phone or tablet computer. Figure 2 provides a depiction of such an electronic device with a touchscreen display 200. The device 200 is a type of computer processing system 100 (as described above), and as such includes computer processing system components such as processing unit 102, bus 104, and memory 106, 108, and/or 110.

Device 200 also includes (in this instance) communications interfaces allowing device 200 to wirelessly connect to a mobile telecommunications network (e.g. 3G or 4G network) and a data network (e.g. via Wi-Fi).

Device 200 also includes (in a physically integrated manner) a touchscreen display 202, physical buttons 204a, 204b, and 204c, a microphone 206, and a speaker 208.

Embodiments of the system will be described with reference to their implementation on or by an electronic device such as device 200. It will be appreciated, though, that elements of the system could well be implemented by other computer processing systems.

Example networked system

Figure 3 illustrates an example of a system 300 for a distributed delivery system. The distributed delivery system 300 includes courier devices 302, sender devices 304, receiver devices 310, a server 306 and a network 118. An individual courier person or a courier company (referred to herein as ‘courier 312’) operates the courier device 302, an individual sender 314A or a large organization sender 314B (referred to herein as ‘sender 314’) operates the sender device 304, and a receiver 316 operates the receiver device 310. One or more administrators or owners may operate and manage the server 306 and the database 308. The network 118 may be a wireless, wired, or mobile network.

In one embodiment, a distributed delivery application is locally stored in the memory of the courier device 302, the sender device 304, and/or the receiver device 310. Alternatively, one or more of the courier device 302, sender device 304 or receiver device 310 may access the distributed delivery application directly from the server 306. The courier device 302, the sender device 304, and the receiver device 310 are in network communication with a server 306 (or a distributed network of servers) through the network 118.

Courier devices (e.g. the courier device 302), sender devices (e.g. the sender device 304), and receiver devices (e.g., the receiver device 310) may generally be portable electronic devices such as the device 200 but can be other computer processing systems (e.g. laptops or desktop computers). It will be understood that in implementation, the system 300 includes multiple courier devices, sender devices, and receiver devices 210 although limited examples are shown in Fig. 3 for simplification.

Courier user interfaces are provided on the courier devices 302, which are distinct from sender user interfaces provided to senders on the sender devices 304 and the receiver user interfaces provided to receivers on the receiver devices 310. Couriers 312 can enter data related to their availability and job classifications on the courier device 302. The data is then transmitted via the network 118 to the server 306, processed by the server 306, and stored in a database 308. The server 306 and the related database 308 store information related to courier job classifications.

Senders 314 enter the parameters of their job requests through the sender interface on the sender device 304. The job requests are then transmitted via the network 118 to the server 306, processed by the server 306, and stored in the database 308. Receivers 316 may view the status of the delivery on a receiver interface that informs the receiver of the current location of the delivery item, the estimated delivery date and address and details of the assigned courier. The receiver interface may also allow the receiver 316 to update the delivery address, add a suitable time or note for the courier. Other functions such as GPS enabled tracking of the delivery item may also be provided without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

As described further with reference to Figures 4D and 4E, the server 306 performs the operations to match a senders’ job request to a courier’s job classification, provide the sender 314 with one or more automated price quotes for the job request, and transform the job request to a job instruction to be performed by the courier 312. The server 306 also receives, stores and transfers funds related to the job instruction.

Couriers 312 and senders 314 may also communicate via the network 118 on their respective devices 302 and 304. In one embodiment, the couriers and senders may communicate on their devices through the respective courier interfaces and sender interfaces provided by the distributed delivery application. In other embodiments, the server 306 may facilitate an exchange of courier and sender contact information so couriers 312 and senders 314 can communicate via text messages and telephone calls. Similarly, couriers and receiver may communicate via the network 118 on their respective devices 302 and 310 either through their respective interfaces or via text messages and telephone calls.

As described herein, the term ‘couriers’ refer to individuals or businesses involved in the delivery of goods as part of the distributed delivery system. Couriers may be dedicated courier firms or businesses and their employees. Additionally, couriers can include individuals, who are not employed or contracted as couriers, but may wish to provide courier services on a casual or part-time basis.

As described herein, the term ‘senders’ refer to individuals and businesses who would like to transport a product between given locations. Furthermore, senders may also be customers of a merchant who may wish to organise means to deliver goods from the merchant to a specified location. In this case, the sender may also be the receiver as the sender requests delivery of goods from the merchants address to their own address. The term ‘receiver’ refers to individuals or businesses who would receive the delivered items.

Steps taken by the courier

Figures 4A and 4B shows the steps performed by a courier using the distributed delivery system. The courier may perform the steps 402 to 412, 416 and 418 on the courier device 302.

At step 402 the courier registers his or her details with the system, including their personal and contact details, address, and vehicle information, zoning and pricing, etc. At step 404 the courier is presented with a user interface in order to create and manage a courier profile including one or more job classifications. The courier inputs details for these job classifications in the steps shown in Figure 4B, as designated by the step with the symbol “A”. A job classification describes the requirements for the service the courier is offering, including the geographical area(s) in which the courier operates, whether particular locations are designated for pick up and/or drop off of goods, the rates that the courier wants to charge, the types of goods the courier is willing to deliver, and any additional information.

Referring to Figure 4B, the steps performed by the courier when creating or editing job classifications is shown by are shown in steps 420 to 426. The courier selects one or more parameters in steps 420 to 426, which are associated to the currently selected job classification. The system may provide courier interfaces for each of these steps (as exemplified by Figures 5A to 5C, 6A to 6C, 7, 8A to 8C, 9, 10A to 10C, 11 and 12A to 12 described herein).

At step 420 the courier 312 selects one or more geographical locations in which the courier is willing to operate. The selected locations may reflect the local area in which the courier 312 is based, a large geographical area around which the courier travels, or a particular route which the courier takes at certain times. The selection of locations is further described with reference to Figures 6A to 6C and Figures 8A to 8C.

At step 422 the courier applies zoning characteristics to the selected locations. A location may be characterised as one of a pick-up zone, a drop-off zone, or a pick-up and drop-off zone. This enables the courier to indicate which locations the courier is available to perform certain delivery tasks. For example, this provides the courier with flexibility to designate routes or areas around which they are available to perform certain tasks depending on their availability. The application of zoning characteristics is further described with reference to Figures 6A to 6C and Figures 8A to 8C.

At step 424 the courier inputs data relating to a product category of the goods for which the courier is able to provide their courier service. Product category information includes item size restrictions, item weight restrictions, a total weight restriction for the goods in a given job, whether the goods are packaged or unpackaged (as some couriers may wish not to handle unpackaged goods or provide additional packaging services), or other special considerations such as particular storage needs, or other handling instructions. The courier input and selection of product category information is further described with reference to Figures 7 and 9.

At step 426 the courier, if eligible to provide an automated quote, inputs pricing data. The pricing data includes predetermined rates or charges specified by the courier.

The pricing data may include a weight based rate specified by the courier, a distance based rate specified by the courier, one or more labour-defining characteristics, surcharges specified by the courier, a minimum value limit specified by the courier, and a maximum value limit specified by the courier. As used herein, the term ‘labourdefining characteristics’ refers to additional considerations which impact the performance of the job and for which the courier can charge additional amounts. For example, the characteristics of a pick-up or a drop-off location (such whether it is a business or residential building, whether it has multi-level stairs, or has limited access), the use of additional personnel or equipment (e.g. pallet jacks).

Based on the pricing data provided by the courier and the parameters of a particular job requested by the sender, the server 306 calculates an automated price quote for the requested job, which has been matched to the parameters of the courier’s job classification.

The system may also be configured such that the courier can select which of the above parameters (e.g. the location information 420, the zoning characteristics 422, or the product category 424) can trigger determination of the automated quote.

The interfaces for the automated price quote and the pricing data are further described with reference to Figures 10A to 10C, Figure 11, and Figures 12A to 12D.

Referring back to Figure 4A, at step 406 the courier enables at least one job classification by changing the status of the selected job classification to ‘active’. The courier informs the system that they are currently available to accept jobs for the active job classification(s) (as further described with reference to Figures 5A to 5C). At step 408, the courier, if eligible to provide automatic quotes, enables at least one automated quote for an active job classification. Subsequently, at step 410, the system sends a job instruction to the courier device 302 after receiving a job request from a sender device 304, and matching the parameters of the job request to the parameters of the courier’s active job classification. The job instruction informs the courier that the sender has accepted the courier’s automated price quote and includes instructions for the sender’s job e.g. details of the pickup and/or drop off locations, details of the good(s), and any special instructions for the delivery. The job instruction may appear as a notification on the display of the courier device, as a text message, or an email.

At step 412, the courier accepts the job instruction. In one embodiment, the courier may be required to select an option to accept the job instruction presented by the system at step 410. This provides the courier with an option to accept or reject the job instruction, for example, based on the courier’s current availability. In other embodiments, the courier may have contracted with the administrators of the distributed delivery system or particular senders (for example merchants or distributors of goods) whereby the courier automatically accepts job instructions following the sender’s acceptance of the courier’s automated quote.

At step 414, the courier performs the job. At step 416 the courier confirms completion of the job instruction with a courier authorisation. For example, the courier may select a user interactive object displayed on the courier interface. Alternatively, the courier may send a text message or email to the system to confirm that the job instruction is complete. At step 418 the courier receives payment for the completed job instruction after the system releases the funds which the sender previously transferred.

Steps taken by the sender

Figure 4C shows the steps performed by a sender using the distributed delivery system. The sender may perform the steps 432 to 454 on the sender device 304.

At step 432 the sender registers their details with the system, for example personal or business details.

At step 434 the sender enters a selection for a new job request. At step 436 the sender sets parameters for the new job request, including details of the pick-up and/or drop-off locations, and details of the goods such as weight, physical dimensions, special handling or storage instructions, or labour-defining characteristics. At step 438 the sender posts the new job request with the system.

At step 442 the sender receives one or more automated price quotes from the system, which the system has determined, based on the pricing data of the respective one or more matched job classifications and the parameters of the job request. At step 444 the sender selects one of the automated price quotes determined by the system.

At step 452 the sender transfers the funds for the job instruction to the system. The job is then performed by the courier and at step 454 the sender and/or the receiver confirms the completion of the job instructions with a send authorisation and/or a receiver authorisation.

Returning to step 442, if the sender is not provided with an automated quote by the system (e.g. if the sender does not enter parameters which match the parameters of the job classifications which trigger the determination of an automated quote) or if the sender does not wish to select one of the determined automated quotes from the system, the sender can select an option to send the new job request to an auction, as indicated by step 446. In some embodiments, a reverse auction is conducted between eligible couriers. For example, the reverse auction may be conducted between the couriers who the system has matched and whose automated price quotes were previously presented to the sender. Alternatively, the system may send the job request posted at step 438 to all couriers currently available that meet at least some of the parameters of the job request (e.g. other couriers may be available in the relevant locations but were not eligible for automated quotes, or were not as best matched as the initial group of couriers). The system may set a time interval at which the auction ceases and the latest bid becomes the best available bid. At step 448, the sender receives a quote based on the auction, and at step 450 the sender selects the quote received from the auction. The sender then proceeds with transferring the funds and subsequently confirms completion of the job (steps 452 and 454), as previously described.

Steps performed by the server/distributed delivery application

Figures 4D and 4E show the steps performed by the system (for example the server 306) when matching a sender to a courier for the delivery of physical goods.

Steps 456 to 462 describe the steps performed by the system in relation to the information received from the courier (as described in Figures 4A and 4B). At step 456 the system receives the courier input of the courier’s profile information and in response saves the courier’s profile information on the database 308. At step 458, the system receives the courier’s input for one or more job classifications, including location and zoning information (step 458A), product category information (step 458B), and pricing schedule information (step 458C). In response to receiving the information of steps 458A, 458B, and 458C, the system sets these parameters for the job classification and the job classification is saved on the database of the system (step 458D).

At step 460, the system receives a courier input for enabling one or more job classifications with at least one automated price quote. In response, the system changes the status of the job classification and the selected automated price quote as active.

Subsequently, at step 462, the system stores the enabled job classifications as active job classifications that are available to be searched and compared to new job requests.

Steps 464-470 describe the steps performed by the system in response to information received from the sender (as described in Figure 4C). At step 464, the system receives the sender’s input for the sender’s details and in response saves the sender’s details on the database of the server. At step 466, the system receives a sender input for a new job request and at step 468 receives the sender’s input for the parameters of the new job request.

At step 472, the server 306 searches for one or more matching couriers by comparing the job request with the job classifications stored in the database 308 to determine whether the parameters of the job request matches the parameters of any active job classifications. As previously described, the system determines a match if the parameters of the job request match one or more particular parameters of the active job classifications. The courier may have been required by the system to include these particular parameters, or may have been customised by the courier (e.g. at step 404 if the courier is eligible to provide automated quotes). For example, in one embodiment, the system may proceed to step 476 if the job requests matches with at least a parameter indicating the dimensions of the physical good (i.e. height, length or width), the weight of the good, the distance between the pick-up and drop-off location, or the hours of the delivery.

At step 476 for couriers which have been matched to the job request, the system determines an automated quote based on the pricing schedule set by the respective couriers (as described further in Figures 11 and 12A-12E).

At step 478, the system displays the one or more matched automated quotes to the sender (e.g. on the display of the sender device 304). It will be appreciated that this step is optional and may not be performed in case the system automatically selects a courier based on a predetermined criterion as described previously.

In Figure 4E at step 480, the system determines whether a matched automated quote is selected, either automatically by the system or manually by the sender. If a matched automated quote is selected, the system proceeds to step 482 by transforming the job request to a job instruction and sending the job instruction to the courier. If, however, a matched automated quote is not selected, the system initiates an auction for the job request (as described with reference to Figure 4C) at step 481.

As previously described, in some embodiments, the system may receive a courier confirmation that the job instruction is accepted (step 484). In other embodiments, however, the system considers the job instruction to be assigned and accepted by the courier once the matched automated quote is selected.

At step 486 the system receives the sender’s funds for the job instruction. At step 488 these funds are held in escrow until the job instruction is completed. At step 490, the system determines whether the courier has confirmed completion of the job instruction. If the courier has not completed the job instruction (for example by a set time determined by the sender or a predetermined time set by the system), at step 491 the system withholds the transfer of funds to the courier. Additionally, system may send a notice to the system administrators to review the status of the job instruction and to contact the courier.

Returning to step 490, if the courier has completed the job instruction, the system sends a notification to the sender and/or receiver of the completed job instruction (step 492). The notification may appear on the sender and/or receiver’s device for example, as a text or email. Alternatively, the sender and/or the receiver may check the progress of the delivery by visiting the distributed delivery application stored on the user’s device or on the server 306. At step 494, the system determines whether the sender and/or the receiver have also confirmed completion of the job instruction. If the sender and/or the receiver send an authorisation, the system proceeds to step 498 and transfers the funds for the job instruction to the courier. However, if a sender or a receiver confirmation has not been received by the system, the system holds onto the funds transfer until a predetermined time has elapses (step 496). For example, the system may hold the funds for a period of 48 hours if the sender or receiver has not provided confirmation of the delivery following confirmation by the courier.

Embodiment 2 - Retail Environment

Fig. 4 describes a process for receiving job classifications from multiple couriers, receiving job requests from one or more senders and matching the received job requests with the job classifications. Upon finding one or more matches, the server provides automated price quotes (if active) of the selected couriers to the sender. The sender may either select an automated quote or wait to see if an action provides a lower price for the job request. This process is suitable for adhoc deliveries where the sender is an individual customer, a small business or the like that is driven by lowest price.

Large merchants and businesses, however, rely more on streamlined processes, that are reliable, repeatable, and scalable. One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to setup and provide courier services to such merchants and business organizations.

To that end, the distributed delivery system creates one or more “closed user groups” for senders that have large volumes of deliveries. The groups can be based on one or more logistic rules, such as sender’s location, size and weight of delivery items, delivery time-of-day/day-of-week, etc. For instance, the system 300 may create one closed user group for a first retailer and another closed user group for a second retailer and so on. Similarly, the system may create one group for delivery items over a certain size and weight and another group for items under a certain size and weight. Each group may also include multiple subgroups. For instance, the first retailer group may include one subgroup for pickup location Sydney and another subgroup for pickup location Melbourne. Likewise, the second retailer may include one subgroup for delivery items less than 50kg and another subgroup for delivery items above 50kgs. It will be understood that any other combination of groups and subgroups may be created without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The senders 312 may collaborate with the server 306 to create the groups. To that end, the sender 312 provides one or more logistic rules to define the groups. For instance, the sender 312 may specify that a certain group be created by the server 306 to pick up large furniture items from the sender’s Sydney store for expedited delivery. Furthermore, the sender 312 may provide one or more service level agreements (SLAs), business terms, or contracts for the closed groups. The SLAs and business contracts may define fixed prices for each subgroup, maximum pickup time and delivery time, etc.

Based on the logistic rules and business terms provided by the sender 314, the server 306 is configured to create the one or more requested groups and display the created groups on the sender’s interface and store the data associated with the group data in the database 308.

Once the groups and/or subgroups are created, couriers 316 are assigned to the created groups. According to one technique, the server 306 recommends member couriers 316 for a particular group. Specifically, an administrator associated with the server 306 may receive courier recommendations from the server 306 and contact the courier to determine whether they would be interested in joining the group. If the courier agrees, the server 306 assigns the courier to the closed group. It will be understood that the server 306 may recommend couriers based on their profile information. For instance, the server 306 may select an individual part-time courier living in Sydney and driving a small car to be a member of the Sydney subgroup for the first retailer and a member of the subgroup for delivering items under 50kgs for the second retailer. Alternatively, the server 306 may recommend a large courier company to become a member of more than one available group.

By being a member of different groups and subgroups, the couriers can setup different prices for different groups/subgroups.

Once a courier is assigned to a group, the courier enters job classification parameters in a similar fashion to that described with reference to Fig. 4B. When a sender submits a job request for a particular group, the server 306 matches the parameters of the job request with the parameters of the job classifications entered by couriers assigned to that particular group. If the server 306 finds a match, the server calculates an automated price for the job request and sends the automated price to the sender and at the same time books delivery for the job request and sends job instructions to the matched courier.

The process is described in detail with reference to Figs. 14A-D. Fig. 14A is a flowchart illustrating a method for setting up closed groups and assigning couriers to the closed groups. The method begins at step 1402, where the server 306 creates a closed group aligned with logistical rules and business terms agreed upon with a sender. In one example, a sender may request a closed group to be setup. Alternatively, a large business may register with the distributed delivery system and the distributed delivery system may recommend creation of a closed group for the business. The logistical rules define the pickup location or delivery location for deliveries, the types of products to be delivered, etc., whereas the business terms may identify certain special requirements such a ‘light packaging of items’, ‘after hours delivery’, ‘delivery to be completed in 2 business days’, etc. It will be understood that the sender may propose multiple logistical and special requirements.

Subsequently, at step 1404, the server 306 sends the logistic rules and business rules of the group along with an invitation to join the closed group to the courier device of a courier. The courier, in turn, reviews the rules and, if the courier is able to comply with the rules, accepts the invitation. The courier may enter one or more job classifications for the closed group and accept one or more of the logistical and business rules of the group. At step 1406, the server receives the courier input job classifications and assigns the courier to the group.

Fig. 14B is a flowchart illustrating a method for creating a closed user group and requesting delivery of items by a sender device 304. The method begins at step 1410 where the sender provides logistical and business rules for a group to the server 306. At step 1412, the sender device 304 receives confirmation of the creation of the group aligned with the logistical and business rules specified by the sender.

The following method steps are described in terms of an example where the sender is a large international retail chain and a customer of the retail chain buys a product from the store and requires delivery of the product from the store to their home address. It will be understood that this is merely an example to better explain the method and in way limits the method 1410 to this example.

According to the example, the customer purchases a product in the store or online. When the customer requests delivery of the purchased product, the sender’s computing device, which may be a computing device at the checkout counter, or the customer’s computing device, which may be a mobile computing device, connects with the distributed delivery application and requests a quote for the delivery of the item (step 1414). To that end, the sender’s device 304 transmits the purchased product details to the server 306. At the same time, the sender’s device generates a job request based on the product details and the delivery address provided by the customer. In one example of this embodiment, the customer may also provide expected delivery time, which may be after-hours or weekend delivery. In response to the purchase request, the merchant may generate a unique reference ID for the product bought by the customer.

The server 306, in response to the quote request, generates a quote for the delivery based on the purchased product specifications and the logistical and business rules defined by the sender in step 1410. This quote may be calculated in a manner similar to the automated price quote calculated in process 400. In one embodiment, the pricing may be pre-generated based solely on the logistical and business rules such as time of day, day of week, stairs, ease of access, fuel levies, etc., and stored in the database 308. At step 1416, the sender device 304 receives the price quote from the server 306.

At step 1418, delivery is booked for the job request. In some embodiments, the delivery is booked automatically when an employee of the sender scans a product code or the unique reference ID of the purchased product. In this case, the sender’s device may be a combination of a handheld barcode scanner, RFID scanner, or the like and a computing device. When the employee scans the barcode of the product, the product dimensions and weight information are directly sent to the server 306 along with the customer entered delivery address to the server 306. Alternatively, the delivery may be booked manually by entering details of the purchased product, the delivery address and the expected delivery times in the distributed delivery application.

Fig. 14C is a flowchart illustrating a method for registering with a closed user group and receiving job instructions at a courier device 302. The method begins at step 1420 where the courier registers their details with the distributed delivery system. This step is similar to step 402 of Fig. 4A. Next, at step 1422, the courier device 302 receives logistical and business rules associated with one or more closed groups and an invitation to register with the one or more groups. The courier decides whether they can comply with the rules at step 1424. If the courier is unable to comply with the rules, the courier rejects the invitation. Alternatively, if the courier can comply with the rules, the courier may accept the invitation.

Subsequently, at step 1426, the courier enters details for one or more job classifications for the closed group specifying the logistical and business rules the courier can comply with. This step is similar to the step 404 of Fig. 4A. However, it will be appreciated that some of the fields of the job classification may be prefilled by the server 306. For example, the job classification parameters that are specified in the logistical and business rules of the closed group can be prefilled by the server and the courier would be unable to modify these parameters.

For example, if the group has a location rule, the pickup location may be preentered by the sever 306 and the courier may not be able to alter the pickup location. Similarly, if the item size and weight are defined in the closed group rules, the maximum size and weight of the delivery items is pre-set by the server 306.

Once the courier is part of a closed group, the courier simply waits for job instructions as job requests are automatically assigned to the couriers by the server 306. At step 1428, the courier device 302 receives a job instruction for completing a delivery job from the server. This is because the courier automatically accepts job instructions from the sender in a closed group once the delivery is booked by the sender.

Fig. 14D is a flowchart illustrating a method for assigning delivery jobs to couriers as performed by the server 306. The method begins at step 1430, where the server 306 receives a request for a price quote from a customer/employee of a closed group. The request for price quote also includes information about the item to be delivered and the delivery information (if available). At step 1432, the server 306 compares the item and delivery information with the saved job classifications to determine a courier match . Subsequently, at step 1432 the server 306 generates a price quote based on the product details, the pricing data provided by the matched courier, and the group rules. Alternatively, the server 306 retrieves a preloaded price quote from the database 308.

At step 1434, the server provides the price quote to the sender device that requested the quote. Subsequently, at step 1436, the server 306 receives a delivery booking request for a job from the sender of a closed group. The server then compares the job request associated with the delivery order with the parameters of the job classifications stored in the database for the closed group in step 1438. It will be understood that a courier entity may be a courier company having multiple drivers. In step 1431, the server 306 matches the product and delivery information with the various courier entities assigned to the closed user group. However, at step 1438, the server 306 matches the job request with the job classifications associated with individual drivers for the courier entities to select a particular driver for the job. This is because each courier entity may have different drivers that service different areas, work at different times of the day, etc, but the courier entity may have agreed upon a single price schedule with the server 306.

Based on the comparison, the server 306 assigns the delivery request to a courier in step 1440. If multiple matches are found in the comparison, the server may select one of the couriers based on predefined thresholds for factors such as delivery target, number of deliveries assigned to the courier, customer reviews of the courier, etc. Alternatively, the selection may be based on predetermined criterion such as service level specifications (same day delivery; point to point delivery; after hours, etc.,) that the courier is prepared to satisfy in order to be a member of that particular closed user group.

Once the courier is matched with the job request, the job instructions are sent to the courier at step 1442 and the courier details are provided to the sender 314 and the receiver 316 at step 1444.

The courier user interfaces and job classification

The input and processing of courier information (e.g. as discussed in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, step 458 of Figure 4D, and Fig. 14C) will now be described further with reference to Figures 5A to 5C, 6A to 6C, 7, 8A to 8C, 9,10A to 10C, 11 and 12A to 12E.

Referring to Figures 5A to 5C, a Job Classification interface (500) enables the courier to create, manage and edit their profile on the system.

The Job Classification interface 500 includes a title 502, a new job icon 504 (which upon a selection by the courier navigates the courier to a New job classification interface 600 described further with reference to Figures 6A to 6C), a menu icon 506, a job classification list 508, and a map view 510 which includes a map 512 showing a geographical area divided into sections.

In Figure 5A, the courier has not yet defined a job classification. Accordingly, the map 510 does not have any geographical areas linked to a job classification and is displayed without any highlights. The courier can select the ‘create new job classification’ icon to begin to create a new job classification.

The map 512 may be a proprietary map or obtained from a third-party source (e.g. an enhanced Google® Map). The map is overlayed with local population data in order to divide the geographical area into segments based on population density, or council zoning (e.g. electorate data obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics). In the map view 510, the courier can pan and zoom using the controls. The map 512 shown in the map view 510 includes one or more regions. As the courier zooms in and out of the map 512 different levels of the geographic area are shown. For example, as the courier zooms in to the map 512 higher levels of detail may be shown.

Each job classification 514-518, includes the following indicators: a status indicator 520, a job name 522, an area detail 524 and an action button 528.

The status indicator 520 indicates the state of the job classification, including active (on), disabled (off), and selected. Figure 5B shows the first and second job classifications 514 and 516 as active, indicated by the status indicator 520 displayed as a green tick symbol, and the corresponding map segments 512A and 512B are highlighted in the map view 510. The job classification 518 is disabled, as indicated by the status indicator 521 displayed a grey stop sign symbol.

The courier activates one or more job classifications to indicate that the courier is currently available to accept job requests from senders. In response, the system stores active job classifications (step 458) in the database, which are available to be compared with new job requests in order to match available couriers (steps 468 and 470). The courier may also include timing information which defines a time interval in which the selected job classification is stored as an active job classification.

The courier can also disable one or more job classifications to indicate that the courier in unable to accept job requests from senders. In response, the system stores disable job classifications as inactive job classifications which cannot be compared with the job request.

Each of these job classifications 514, 516, 518 is the courier-selectable object. The courier selects or deselects a job classification by clicking or tapping area defined by the dashed box 526. In Figure 5C, the courier has selected the job classification 516, which is displayed as a shaded item. The courier can select either none or one of the job classifications. In response to the courier selection of the job classification, the system displays the corresponding map segments. For example, in Figure 5C, the map segment 512B is highlighted, which corresponds to the job classification 516.

In response to the courier selection on the action icon 528 on a job classification, the system navigates the courier to the job details interface 700 (described further with reference to Figure 7).

The menu icon 506 provides couriers with additional options to enable, disable or delete one or more job classifications. If there are no job classifications currently selected, the courier selection of the menu icon 506 displays options to enable all job classifications, disable all job classifications, or delete all job classifications. Alternatively, if one job classification is selected, the courier selection of the menu icon 506 displays a dialogue box with the options specific to the selected job classification including enable, disabled, delete, and duplicate (which allows the courier to create a copy of the selected job classification).

With reference to Figures 6A to 6C, the system displays a new job classification creation interface 600 in response to the courier selection of a new job classification creation icon 504. The new job classification creation interface 600 includes a title 602, a job name 604, a locations list 606, a map view 608, and a save and cancel icons 610 and 612.

The new job classification creation interface 600 allows the courier to define a geographical area in which they operate and indicate locations which can be designated as a pick-up zone, a drop-off zone, or a pick-up and drop-off zone.

The job name field 604 enables the courier to input a name or label for the new job classification currently being created. Upon entry of a name, the system checks whether the courier already has entered the name in the system. If the name currently being entered is not unique, a system message is displayed that an area with the name already exists and that the courier should enter another name. The system does not allow the courier to save the new job classification until a unique name is entered. For example, the prompt may appear below the data entry field. Alternatively, the prompt may be displayed when the courier attempts to save the current new job classification.

In the map view 608, the courier clicks or taps on map segments in order to select and deselect a location. In response to the courier selection a map segment is highlighted as shown in Figure 6B by dashed lines around the border of the map segments 609.

The creation interface 600 also includes a summary panel 614 which provides information to the courier as to the number of locations selected and their characteristics. The summary panel 614 displays instructional text such as when the courier has not yet selected any map segments the summary panel 614 indicates that zero locations have been selected and the courier should select locations on the map to define as pick-up and drop-off zones (as shown in Figure 6). The summary panel is updated as the courier selects locations on the map. For example, as shown in Figure 6B, six locations have been selected. The summary panel 614 also includes the option to deselect all currently selected locations.

The summary panel 614 also includes icons 616 to apply zoning characteristics to the selected locations. For example, these icons include a pick-up zone 616, a pick-up and drop-off zone 618, or a drop-off zone 619. A pick-up zone indicates that the selected location is an area in which the courier has the ability to collect or pick up items for delivery. A drop-off zone indicates that the selected location is an area in which the courier can only deliver or drop off physical goods. Alternatively, a pick-up and drop-off zone indicates that the selected location is an area in which the courier can provide both pick-up and drop-off services. Additionally, the clear icon 622 provides the function of removing a particular zone on the selected location. Applying zoning characteristics to a location enables the courier to customise the areas or routes in which the courier provides pick up and/or drop off services. For example, the courier may be willing to provide pick up and drop off services in a certain area while engaged in their regular courier duties during business hours. However, after hours the courier may only wish to accept jobs to deliver goods on a route which is on the courier’s way home.

As shown in Figure 6B, in response to the courier selection of the zoning icon titled ‘Pick-up and Drop-off Zone’ 618, the system highlights the six previously selected map segments and updates the summary panel 614.

The courier may then save or cancel the changes made on the new job classification creation interface 600. In response to the selection of the saved icon 610, the system saves the entered information on the server and the courier is navigated to the job details interface 700, described further with reference to Figure 7. However, if there is a failure upon saving the system may display an error message on the new job classification interface 600 which indicates that there was a problem in saving the information. The system may prompt the courier to include additional information. Alternatively, the courier can select the cancel icon 612. In response, the system navigates the courier to the job classification interface 500 without saving the previously entered information.

Figure 7 shows a job details interface 700 which provides further details for a selected job classification. The courier can navigate to the job details interface 700 by selecting an action icon 528 for a particular job classification as shown in Figures 5B and 5C, or upon saving a new job classification item as shown in Figures 6A to 6C. The job details interface 700 enables the courier to edit and manage particular settings related to the selected area. The job details interface 700 includes a title 702, a back arrow 704, a status toggle 706, a job name 708, a menu icon 710, a locations summary 712, a categories summary 714, a category list 716 and a map view 732.

Courier selection of the back arrow icon 704 returns the courier to the job classification interface 500 (described with reference to Figures 5A to 5C).

The courier can interact with the status toggle 706 to change the state of the selected area. For example, in respect to the courier selection of the status toggle 706, the system can change the status of the selected job classification from active to disabled. The status toggle 706 can also visually indicate whether the status is active or inactive either through the position of the toggle switch or through the use of different colours to indicate an active status or a disabled status.

The job name 708 displays the name of the job classification previously entered by the courier (for example in the new job classification creation interface 600). The courier can select the job name 708 to activate a data entry field in which the courier can enter data to edit the job name. Upon courier selection of the job name 708, the field is displayed and expands to allow the courier to enter data. The field also includes accept and cancel icons which the courier can select in order to save or cancel any changes made to the job name. As previously described, the system can check whether the courier has previously entered an identical job name and prompt the courier to enter a unique job name.

The menu icon 710 provides the courier with additional options. In response to the courier selection of the menu icon 710, the system can display a dialogue box with options including duplicate area and delete area. If the courier has been provided with Automated Quote access, courier selection of the menu icon 710 can also include options for enabling or disabling all Automated Quotes for the selected area. Automated Quotes are further described with reference to Figures 10A to 10C, Figure 11, and Figures 12A to 12E.

The locations summary 712 displays a summary of the selected locations including the particular zoning characteristics associated with the selected job classification. For example the job classification currently displayed includes 4 locations that are dedicated pickup zones, 6 locations which are a dedicated pickup and drop off zones, and 3 locations which are dedicated drop off zones. The courier can select the edit the location settings icon 713 to navigate to the location settings interface 800 (further described in relation to Figures 8A to 8C).

The matching categories field 714 includes a category summary 716 and an Automated Quote summary 718. The category summary 716 is shown to all couriers and describes the number of currently selected categories of goods which the courier is prepared to pick up and deliver (further described in the category list 720). If there are no categories enabled, the system displays the text Ό categories selected’. If there are 1 or more categories enabled, the system displays the summary text as ‘X categories selected’.

The Automated Quote summary 718 is displayed only to couriers with the ability to create and modify Automated Quotes. If there are no Automated Quotes enabled, the system displays the text Ό Automated Quotes active’. If there are some Automated Quotes enabled, the system displays the summary text ‘[active Automated Quotes] of [total Automated Quotes] Automated Quotes active’. For example, in this highlighted area, there are 3 of 5 Automated Quotes active.

The category list 720 displays the types of goods that the courier is willing to pick up and deliver in their job classification. Goods are grouped according to a particular category. For example, the area the category list 720 includes the categories ‘Packaged Items and Freight’, ‘Unpackaged Items’, ‘Vehicles’, and Other’. Under each of these categories several items are displayed. In the category list 720 there is a category on off toggle 722, a category name 724, a category setting icon 726 and an Automated Quote settings and status indicator 728 and 730. The courier can interact with the category on off toggle to switch on or off a category for a given area of operation. For example a selected category can appear with a green box and tick symbol, while an inactive category appears as a blank square. The courier selection of a category settings menu icon 726 navigates the courier to a category settings interface 900 (described further with reference to Figure 9). If there are category settings available for the respective category, the category settings icon 726 is displayed. However if category settings are not available for a given category, a dash symbol 727 may be displayed.

The Automated Quote settings icon 728 is shown next to categories for couriers with the ability to create and modify Automated Quotes. The courier selection of the auto settings icon 728 navigates the courier to the Automated Quote settings page 1000 (described further reference to Figures 10A to 10C). The Automated Quote status indicator 730 is also displayed alongside the Automated Quote settings menu icon 728. If an Automated Quote is on the Automated Quote status indicator is shown as a green solid icon. If Automated Quote is on but the related category is off or disabled the Automated Quote status indicator is shown as a darkened dot. If Automated Quote settings are unavailable the status indicator is shown as a dash. If Automated Quote settings are off then no status indicator is shown.

As previously described with other interfaces the job details interface 700 includes a map view 732 which indicates the currently selected area. Couriers can also pan and zoom the map in the map view 732.

Referring to Figures 8A to 8C, a location settings interface 800 is displayed which enables the courier to edit and manage locations for an existing job classification. The locations settings interface 800 includes a page title 802, a matching locations field 804, a map view 806 and a summary display 808 and a save icon 810 and a cancel icon 812.

The matching locations field 804 updates as the courier adds or removes locations 814 from the map. The courier interacts with the map 806 as previously described including panning, zooming and selecting operations. As locations are selected they are highlighted with a dashed border as shown in Figure 8B. As previously described, the courier can apply zoning characteristics to a selected location. For example, the courier has selected particular locations on the map 806 and has applied a drop off zone to three locations and has applied a pick up and drop off zone to six locations. These are shown with their corresponding colours on Figure 8C. Additionally, the matching locations field has been updated to indicate that there are six pick up and drop off locations and three drop off locations.

As previously described, the courier can select the save icon 810 or cancel icon 812 to save or cancel any changes made on the locations settings interface 800.

Referring to Figure 9, a category settings interface 900 is shown. The courier may navigate to the category settings interface upon selection of the category settings icon 726 from the job details interface 700 (described previously with reference to Figure 7).

The category settings interface 900 includes a title 902, a selected category name 904, an apply settings icon 906, a copy settings icon 908, a category options field 910, a save icon 912 and a cancel icon 914.

In this example the courier has previously selected the category settings menu icon 726 for the category name furniture and household goods. Additional category settings are displayed in the category options 910. These options include total weight restrictions, item weight restrictions, item size restrictions, and special considerations. These restrictions and considerations may be provided for all types of categories. This allows the courier to provide a limit as to the character or description of the goods that they are willing to carry as part of their service offering.

After the courier has selected options from the category options field 910, the courier may wish to apply the settings to one or more other categories. The courier can select the apply settings icon 906 to copy the currently displayed category options to one or more other categories. Alternatively, the courier may wish to copy settings from another category. Accordingly, the courier can select the copy settings icon 908 in order to import category options from one or more other categories.

As previously described, the courier can select the save icon 912 to save changes and return to the job details interface 700, or select the cancel 914.

The Automated Quote settings and options will be discussed with reference to Figures 10A to 10C, Figure 11, and Figures 12A to 12E. Eligible couriers are provided with the option to create and modify an Automated Quote for their courier service.

An Automated Quote includes the courier’s predetermined rate for one or more pricing selections in order to provide an automatic quote when the system receives a job request with parameters that match the parameters of the courier’s active job classification.

In one embodiment, couriers eligible to use an Automated Quote may agree to receive and perform all jobs once the system has matched the courier’s job classification to the job request, and the sender has accepted their quote. Alternatively, couriers may be prompted to accept/confirm the job request after their Automated Quote has been selected by the sender.

Referring to Figure 11, the pricing calculation for an Automated Quote is shown. This can include calculations based on weight 1102, distance 1104 and any other additions 1106 or surcharges 1108 with a consideration of minimum or maximum values 1110 for a given quote in order to determine a final calculated price 1112 (as further described in Figures 12A to 12E).

In one embodiment, the price quote is calculated by first calculating a weight component and a distance component of the price. The weight component may be calculated by multiplying the weight based rate set by the courier and the weight of the item to the delivered provided in the job request. Similarly, the distance component may be calculated by multiplying the distance based rate set by the courier with the distance between the pickup and delivery locations provided in the job request. The calculated weight component and distance components are then added with one or more labour charge rates quoted by the courier. Surcharges are added to the price calculated so far and the system considers the minimum and maximum prices predetermined by the courier. For example, if the total price is lower than the minimum price set by the courier, the calculated price is adjusted to the minimum price. Similarly, if the total calculated price exceeds the maximum price set by the courier, the calculated price is adjusted to the maximum price.

The final calculated price 1112 reflects an Automated Quote which is displayed when a sender of goods accesses the system and enters parameters for a delivery which matches the predetermined criteria of the courier. Figures 10A to 10C show an example of an Automated Quote Settings Interface 1000. The Automated Quote Settings Interface 1000 includes a Title 1002, a Selected Category Name 1004, an Automated Quote Toggle 1006 and Apply Settings icon 1008, a Copy Settings icon 1010, an Automated Quote Section Selector 1012, and an Automated Quote Section Display 1014, a Save icon 1016 and a Cancel icon 1018.

The Automated Quote toggles which enables and disables an Automated Quote for the selected category. Courier selection of the Automated Quote toggle can turn an Automated Quote off indicated by the toggle switch appearing on the left hand side with a dark bar and the text Automated Quote off. Alternatively, the Automated Quote may be turned on shown by a solid icon and the toggle switch appearing on the right or the Automated Quote may be on but disabled as the selected category is turned off as edited in the Category Settings interface.

As previously described with reference to Interface 900, the Apply Settings icon 1008 and Copy Settings icon 1010 can import and export settings to other categories.

The Automated Quote section selector 1012 allows couriers to navigate between the one or more predetermined factors for generating an Automated Quote including limits, weight, distance, additions and surcharges. Each of these options are further described with reference to Figures 12A to 12E. Each of the pricing sections is indicated by the courier selectable icon 1012a to 1012e. Courier selection of an icon 1012a to 1012d highlights the icon, for example as shown by the highlighted limits pricing section icon 1012a. If a section has not been selected then the pricing section icon is not highlighted. If there are errors in a pricing section, the pricing section icon appears with an error indicator 1014 as shown in Figure 10B. Additionally, an error message can be displayed as shown by the dialogue box 1014 in Figure 10B. Upon selection of each pricing section, the Automated Quote section display 1014 includes the relevant information such as the title and description, and options.

After the courier has entered data to one or more of the pricing sections, the courier can create an estimate for the final calculated price by selecting the test icon 1022. In response, the system displays a total quote in the total quote field 1024. Couriers can then save the data by selecting the save icon 1016 and then navigate to the job details page 700. Alternatively, the courier can select the cancel icon 1018 and return to the job details interface 700 without saving any data.

Sender/Receiver User Interface

Fig 13 depicts an example of a sender’s or receiver’s user interface (Ul) - Ul 1300 and Ul 1320, respectively. Ul 1300 depicts the interface after a delivery order is confirmed by the courier. The Ul 1300 depicts the delivery ID (1301) for a particular job request, the delivery status (1302), the pickup address (1303), the delivery address (1304), the courier’s contact details (1305), and accepted price quote (1306). If the sender/receiver selects the map icon (1313), the user interface depicts the route between the sender and the receiver. Similarly, if the sender/receiver selects the tracking icon (1314), the user interface displays the current location of the delivery item on the map. As seen in the toolbar (1307), the sender/receiver may also view all job requests already delivered (1307), in progress (1308), completed (1309), or cancelled or expired (1310). The sender/receiver may also review their payment details (1311). The sender/customer may create a job request (1312) through the Ul 1300.

Ul 1320 depicts a picture of the item (1321), the name of the courier pickup contact (1322), the receiver’s name (1323) and the receiver’s contact details (1324).

It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

Claims (5)

1. A computer-implemented method for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item, the method comprising: creating, at a server, a group associated with the sender based on one or more logistics rules; receiving, at the server, from a courier computing device, a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job, the first set of parameters indicative of delivery capabilities of the courier; assigning, by the server, the courier to the group based on a comparison of the first set of parameters and the one or more logistics rules; storing, by the server, data defining the group in a storage medium; receiving, at the server from a sender computer, a price quote request to deliver the item to a receiver, the request including a second set of parameters for completing delivery of the item; automatically providing a price quote, from the server to the sender computer, based on the first and second sets of parameters; receiving, at the server, from the sender computer, a deliver request to deliver the item; automatically sending job instructions to the courier computing device to proceed with delivery of the item.

2. The method according to claim 2, wherein the price quote is dependent on at least one rate selected from a group including: a weight based rate, a distance based rate, one or more labour-based rates, one or more surcharges, a minimum value limit, or a maximum value limit, and wherein automatically providing the price quote includes calculating a final price by: calculating a weight component as a product of the weight based rate and the weight of a delivery item provided in the request for the quote; calculating a distance component as a product of the distance based rate and the distance between a pickup location and a delivery location of the delivery item provided in the request; adding the weight component, the distance component, and the rate of one or more labour-defining characteristics; and applying the one or more surcharges.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first set of parameters comprises area characteristics, wherein the area characteristics are defined by: presenting a map in a user interface of the courier computing device, the map overlaid with locations having area boundaries; receiving a selection of at least one location from the courier computing device; and receiving selection of a zoning definition for each selected location from the courier computing device, the zoning definition including defining each selected location as one of a pick-up zone, a drop-off zone, or a pick-up and drop-off zone.

4. A computer-implemented method for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item, the method comprising: receiving, from multiple courier computing devices, one or more job classifications having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job; storing the one or more job classifications from the multiple courier computing devices in a job classification database, wherein the one or more job classifications are stored in relation with one or more groups the couriers are associated with; receiving, from a sender computer of a group, a price quote request, the price quote request comprising a job request including item information and delivery information; comparing the job request with one or more job classifications in the job classification database associated with the sender’s group to determine a matched courier; automatically generating a price quote based on the item information, pricing data provided by the matched courier and one or more group rules; transmitting the price quote to the sender computer; receiving, from the sender computer, a delivery request; automatically sending job instructions to the computing device of the matched courier based on the delivery request.

5. A system for matching a sender with a courier to deliver an item, the system comprising a processing unit and a storage medium comprising instructions which, when processed by the processing unit perform the steps of: receiving, from multiple courier computing devices, one or more job classifications having a first set of parameters for completing a delivery job; storing the one or more job classifications from the multiple courier computing devices in a job classification database, wherein the one or more job classifications are stored in relation with one or more groups the couriers are associated with; receiving, from a sender computer of a group, a price quote request, the price quote request comprising a job request including item information and delivery information; comparing the job request with one or more job classifications in the job classification database associated with the sender’s group to determine a matched courier; automatically generating a price quote based on the item information, pricing data provided by the matched courier and one or more group rules; transmitting the price quote to the sender computer; receiving, from the sender computer, a delivery request; automatically sending job instructions to the computing device of the matched courier based on the delivery request.