Abstract: A tracking system and method uses a multi-threaded controller to automatically and periodically generate tracking objects that are presented to carrier tracking websites. The tracking objects are retrieved from input queues that receive tracking requests from a scheduler. The carrier tracking website updates the status of package delivery which in turn updates the data in the shipping system server with respect to tracking information. This updated information can be used to automatically generate E-mail notification of package delivery as well as for updated purposes. An instant track component allows a user to obtain prioritized tracking information from the associated carrier tracking website.

Abstract: A system and method for manipulation of event data, such as errors, in a networked environment. The method includes receiving event signal data indicative of an event, and associating descriptive data with the event signal data. The descriptive data is then mapped to one or more associated connections. A determination is made whether to post identifier data corresponding to the event signal data. This determination is made as a function of predetermined criteria. If a determination is made to post the identifier data, the particular identifier data is posted. The posted identifier data may be selectively retrieved and output in a specified format. The identifier data may be stored in a memory. Descriptive data may be accumulated for a plurality of events subsequent to the mapping step. An alert condition may be established based on the type of event that has occurred.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for printing a shipping label. The method includes transmitting request signals from a processor, via a network, to a remote electronic storage location, such as a database or a server. The request signals specify particular label requirements for a label. The label specification data is transmitted from the remote electronic storage location that meets the requirements of the request signals. The label specification data includes identifying data for a particular parcel carrier. The label specification data is transmitted from the processor to a selected printer and the printer prints a shipping label as a function of the label specification data, such that the identifying data is printed in a coded format. The contents of the remote electronic storage location are then updated.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a package tracking system and method in which a sender and a recipient of a package are provided e-mail messages including information from a sender or carrier web page and the package location status. The present invention uses a network-based service for transferring tracking information from a package carrier and the sender to the requesting party. A package tracking request, including a tracking number and an e-mail address is submitted to a data center. This tracking request is stored in a set of queues, separated by a specific carrier identification number into tracking segment requests, and then sent to the tracking website of the selected carrier in accordance with the capabilities of each carrier's website. The carrier package tracking results from the website and the information from the sender or carrier website are gathered and stored at the database.

Abstract: A carrier management system includes a scale for weighing parcels to be shipped, a computer connected to receive data from the scale related to the weight of a parcel thereon, and first input keys enabling the input of information. The computer has a data base for storing shipping charge data for a plurality of carriers and/or shipping classes, based upon the weight of a parcel of the scale. The computer is responsive to the operation of the first keys for determining shipping charges for predetermined carriers and/or shipping classes represented by data in the data base. The input includes auto-rate selection key, and the computer is responsive to operation of the auto-rate selection key for determining shipping charges of the least costly carrier and/or shipping class of a predetermined subgroup of carriers and/or shipping classes represented by data in the data base. In one operating mode, the computer may determined the next least costly shipping charges.