How Do I Configure Containers?

The Containers Pane, found under the Assets tab, is used to define and manage the types of storage containers your company deploys in the field. Each container type includes key dimensions and plays a critical role in route planning, reporting, and customer tracking.

📦 What is a Container?

A container refers to the physical vessel used to collect or store product (e.g., used cooking oil) at customer sites. These include barrels, totes, and drums of varying sizes.

Each container record includes:

• Name

• Capacity in gallons

• Height in inches

🔄 Why Container Records Matter

Containers are directly assigned to customers, and their defined capacity is essential for several calculations throughout Route Simplified, including:

• Fill Level – Current volume estimated in the container

• Fill Percentage – Percentage of total capacity currently used

• Onsite Capacity – Total available storage at a customer location

📊 These calculations help dispatchers determine when to schedule pickups and how to optimize route efficiency.

➕ Adding a New Container

1. Click “Add container” in the top-right corner of the Containers Pane.

2. Complete the following fields:

   • Name (e.g., Tall Barrel, Poly Tote)

   • Capacity – Enter volume in gallons/litres

   • Height – Enter height in inches

3. Click Save to register the new container type.

✏️ Editing an Existing Container

To update container details:

1. Click the container from the list view.

2. Update Name, Capacity, or Height as needed.

3. Click Save to apply changes.

⚠️ Be cautious when editing containers that are already assigned to active customer accounts, as it will impact volume calculations and route logic.

✅ Best Practices

• Use consistent naming conventions (e.g., include “gallon” in the name)

• Double-check values for accuracy

📘 Sample Container Records

🧾 Summary Checklist

• Add containers with accurate Name, Capacity, and Height

• Assign containers to customer accounts

• Use container capacity to enable:

  • Fill level calculation

  • Fill percentage tracking

  • Onsite capacity measurement