Abstract: A postage metering system includes a base and a user interface mounted to the base. The user interface includes a micro controller, an internal socket for receiving an integrated circuit chip and a smart card reader interface connector for interfacing with an external smart card. The micro controller is configurable to address either the internal socket or the smart card reader interface connector to access postage metering functionality.

Abstract: A system and method for weighing of items such as mailpieces in the presence of external vibration such as ground noise. The system includes a scale system having a platform connected to a load cell, which provides an output signal to an analog-to-digital converter. The resulting digital output signal is processed by a low pass filter and analyzed by a microprocessor to determine weights of items on the platform. The microprocessor also determines postage amounts as functions of the weights and outputs these postage amounts to a postage meter. The microprocessor determines the weights as the median of the peak to valley difference of the digital output signal when the digital output signal peak to valley difference is less than a predetermined value. The microprocessor identifies peaks and valleys of the digital output signal by determining when the derivative of the signal changes sign.

Abstract: A system for correcting the rating and payment of mail pieces scanned and weighed by the post. The foregoing is accomplished by: uniquely identifying mail pieces during the metering process; maintaining a record of the postage that has been applied to the mail pieces and the characteristics of the mail pieces; scanning the mail pieces to determine if the correct postage has been paid; comparing the scanned and weighed mail pieces to the maintained record; and correcting any underpayments or overpayments.

Abstract: A weighing system and a postage metering system including such a weighing system. The weighing system includes a transport assembly having a transport for receiving and outputting mail pieces to be weighed and for supporting mail pieces while they are weighed, and a feeder for successively feeding the mail pieces to the transport. A transducer supports the transport and generates and output representative of the load presented by pairs of mail pieces on the transport. After a current item and a previous item are weighed together on the transport, the transport is energized to output the previous item and replace the previous item with the current item, and the feeder is energized to input a next item to the transport as a new current item.

Abstract: A method for communicating a re-keying message from a postage meter to a registration authority includes the steps of determining at the postage meter that a current key needs to be replaced with a new key; generating in the postage meter the new key; creating in the postage meter the re-keying message, the re-keying message including at least a device identifier and the new key; using the postage meter for printing the re-keying message in a machine-readable form on a recording medium; and mailing the recording medium to the registration authority.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining the shipping weight and cost of a plurality of photofinishing items from a service provider without physically weighing the photofinishing order. A computer system receives photofinishing orders from the customers and associates an order ID with respect to each of the photofinishing orders. The orders are filled and sent to a packing station for assembling the photofinishing order. Each order is placed in a shipping package having the order ID thereon in a machine readable format. A reading device reads order ID and obtains information for determining the associated estimated weight for each package. A printer produces a manifest to be used in shipping the plurality of photofinishing orders wherein the manifest provides the estimated weight and cost for each of the orders that is given to the shipping agent for shipment to customers.

Abstract: A method scale system and transducer used in such system for rapid weighing of items. Said scale system includes: a transducer assembly; said transducer assembly in turn including, a transducer having a first member for supporting said item above a reference level, said first member producing a deflection proportional to said weight of said item, a clamping mechanism for clamping said first member to restrict deflection when activated, and a sensor for sensing said deflection and generating a signal representative of said weight as an output signal proportional to said deflection. Said scale system further includes a transport or platform for supporting said item during weighing, said transport being fixed to said first member, and a controller for controlling activation of said clamping mechanism. Said controller controls said clamping mechanism to clamp said transducer as said item is transported into position for weighing so that disturbances of said transducer are reduced and weighing time is decreased.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method for sorting objects that comprises capturing object information from machine-readable indicia on an object, determining routing information from the information, determining, based on the routing information, a correct sort destination for the object, and generating a visual and/or audio command identifying the correct sort destination for the object. The present invention also includes an object sorting system, comprising a rack system that includes sort destination modules and a management system. The management system comprises a control system, an information capture device for reading object information from machine-readable indicia from each object and for outputting the corresponding data to the control system, and an audio system for providing instructions to an oprator.

Abstract: A vibrating tray scale capable of detecting small amounts of loose particulate matter contained within a mail piece is disclosed. The scale is provided with a clamping device having a plurality of clamping positions. Utilizing different clamping positions, the mass of a mail piece is determined two times, one not including the mass of any loose particulate matter within the mail piece and one including the mass of any loose particulate matter within the mail piece. A determination of whether or not the mail piece contains any loose particulate matter can be made based on a comparison of the results for the two mass determinations.

Abstract: A method for weighing mailpieces while in motion in a mailpiece weighing system. The weigh pan in the mailpiece horizontal transport path generates a signal corresponding to a weight of the moving mailpiece, and the system controller compares the weight of the moving mailpiece to a postal weight break to determine if the postal weight break is within the margin of error of the weighing mechanism. If the postal weight break is within the margin of error of the weighing mechanism, the system controller stops transport of the moving mailpiece and reweighs the mailpiece.

Abstract: A weight estimating system for estimating the weight of a mailpiece and a postage metering system including such a weight estimating system. The weight estimating system includes a measuring system, a diverter mechanism and a microprocessor system. The measuring system includes a transport, a first plurality of detectors for measuring the dimensions of the mailpiece and a second plurality of detectors for measuring values of other characteristics of the mailpiece which are indicative of the presence of non-paper materials in the mailpiece as the mailpiece is transported. The microprocessor is responsive to the second detectors to determine if non-paper materials are included in the mailpiece and, if not, determines the volume from the dimensional measurements and estimates the weight as the product of the volume and a density for paper output an appropriate postage amount to the meter and the mailpiece to the printer.

Abstract: A method for providing a pre-security deposit for an article and a selection station to aid in the method. The method comprises utilizing a selection station having a secure depository bin located in it wherein the selection station contains in it the combination of at least the components: a weighing scale, a device for disclosing the weight of the article, a device for selecting and providing a container for the article, a device for calculating payment for deposit of the article based on the weight of the article and for the container, and a device for making payment for the deposit of the article and the container.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of processing an information form such as a postal change of address form. Such a form includes various data elements, such as a name of a person submitting the form and the information on which action is to be taken. In the case of mail forwarding, these data elements would include, for example, the name of the person that wishes mail to be redirected, an old address to which mail for that person was previously sent, and a new address to which mail for that person should be sent.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of determining weight based delivery fees comprising determining individual weights of package elements of a parcel, determining a total weight of said parcel based on said individual weights of said package elements, and ascertaining a delivery fee associated with said total weight of said parcel.

Abstract: A mail piece processing system includes a weight system, postage system, and control system. The weight system weighs and transfers first mail pieces, and in response to a stop weigh instruction, transfers second mail pieces without weighing them. The postage system applies postage to the mail pieces in response to postage instructions. The control system transfers the postage instructions where the postage corresponds to a weight range. The control system determines if the first mail pieces are within the weight range, and if so, transfers the stop weigh instruction.

Abstract: A weight range estimation system is disclosed for items being transferred by a conveyor system. The weight range estimation system comprises a capacitance sensor and a processing system. The capacitance sensor is configured to sense capacitances of the items being transferred by the conveyor system and transfer capacitance indicators representing the capacitances. The processing system is configured to process the capacitance indicators to estimate weight ranges for the items. In some examples, the processing system is configured to process the weight ranges to select postage for the items, and a postage system applies the appropriate postage to the items.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for determining return delivery charges is described. In one aspect related to the invention, the return delivery charges is determined on the basis of a cost factor (5A). The weight cost factor is determined for a sample of a shipment. The weight cost factor is then utilized to determine the return delivery charges for the shipment (5B).

Abstract: A method and method for fast weighing of items such as mailpieces with variable accuracy. The method includes a scale method having a platform connected to a load cell that provides an output signal to an analog-to-digital converter. The resulting digital output signal is processed by a low pass filter and analyzed by a microprocessor to determine weights of items on the platform. The microprocessor also determines postage amounts of items on the platform. The microprocessor also determines postage amounts as functions of the weights and outputs these postage amounts to a postage meter. The microprocessor determines the weights as the average of a sequence of digital output signal values if the average id not closer than D to any weight break, where D is the difference between a maximum output value and a minimum output value.

Abstract: A method is provided for weighing a series of mail pieces such as letters, flats or a mixture thereof, that are being conveyed through a weighing module. Each mail piece has a length which falls within a range bounded by a maximum length and a minimum length. The mail pieces are conveyed through the weighing module at a substantially constant speed while maintaining a minimum gap between successive mail pieces as the mail pieces pass through the weighing module. The weight of each mail piece is measured during a measurement time when that mail piece is the only mail piece moving on the scale. The scale is sized so that measurement times for mail pieces between the maximum and minimum lengths will vary.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for processing non-postal route mail records and delivering mail items to non-postal route locations. Mail records are presented for processing. Mailers then extract non-postal route records from the input mail records and address mail items using address information derived from the non-postal route records. Items destined for a particular non-postal route location are weighed and postage is paid for those items according to their weight. The items are then transported by carrier to the target non-postal route location.

Abstract: An automatic machine (10) for handling postal items, said automatic machine (10) comprising an opening for receiving a postal item, a scale means (18) arranged in connection with the opening and operable to measure the weight of the postal item, a reader (20) arranged in connection with the opening and operable to read text on the postal item, a computer means (16) connected to the scale means (18) and the reader (20), which computer means, depending on the weight and the text on the postal item, determine the appropriate postage for the postal item, said postage being shown on a display (22) included in the automatic machine, said automatic machine (10) also comprising a payment means (24) connected to the computer means (16) for payment of the postage shown, a franking or metering means (26) connected to the computer means (16), for franking the postal item when the postage has been paid, and a storage space included in the automatic machine (10) for franked postal items.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to individually weigh continuously fed mail pieces wherein each mail piece is configured in a vertical orientation and fed through the weighing system in seriatim. The apparatus contains a scale transport assembly for transporting mail pieces seriatim, a mail piece channel pathway assembly for maintaining the vertical orientation of individual mail pieces, a load cell assembly for measuring the mail piece weight, an x-y table assembly for allowing position adjustments of the weighing system, data collection circuitry, and a support module. The apparatus can be used in conjunction with bulk mail processing systems or it can be used independently.

Abstract: A system and method for fast weighing of items such as mailpieces. The system includes a scale system having a platform connected to a load cell that provides an output signal to an analog-to-digital converter. The resulting digital output signal is processed by a low pass filter and analyzed by a microprocessor to determine weights of items on the platform. The microprocessor also determines postage amounts of items on the platform. The microprocessor also determines postage amounts as functions of the weights and outputs these postage amounts to a postage meter. The microprocessor determines the weights as the median of the peak to valley difference of the digital output signal when the digital output signal peak to valley difference is less than a predetermined value. The microprocessor identifies peaks and valleys of the digital output signal by determining when the derivative of the signal changes sign.

Abstract: A system and method for weighing of items such as mailpieces in the presence of external vibration such as ground noise. The system includes a scale system having a platform connected to a load cell, which provides an output signal to an analog-to-digital converter. The resulting digital output signal is processed by a low pass filter and analyzed by a microprocessor to determine weights of items on the platform. The microprocessor also determines postage amounts as functions of the weights and outputs these postage amounts to a postage meter. The microprocessor determines the weights as the median of the peak to valley difference of the digital output signal when the digital output signal peak to valley difference is less than a predetermined value. The microprocessor identifies peaks and valleys of the digital output signal by determining when the derivative of the signal changes sign.

Abstract: A billing system for determining package transportation charges. The billing system includes a reader to read a package identifier associated with said package and the reader generates a package identifier signal and transmits the same to a microprocessor. The billing system also includes a package sizer having a plurality of non-contact optical sensors located along each of an x, y and z axis, where each optical sensor is in a known position. The sensors are oriented relative to the conveyor so that packages passing over the sensors are detected by the sensors and produce a signal correlated to said package size. Also provided is a microprocessor to receive and correlate said package size and identifier signals, and to determine an appropriate shipping charge based upon the same. A weigh scale may also be incorporated into the system. A method of determining a transportation charge is also comprehended, which includes a self-diagnostic initialization procedure.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for estimating the weight of a document. The method comprises: determining the paper basis; determining the paper size; determining a document page count; and, in response to the determinations, calculating the weight of the printed document. In some aspects the method further comprises: determining the weight of the ink; and, determining the weight of the fuser oil, so that the calculated weight of the printed document includes the determined ink weight and fuser oil weight. In other aspects the method further comprises: selecting a transportation carrier; and, determining the transportation charges associated with the printed document using the calculated document weight. Some aspects further comprise: in response to selecting a carrier, selecting a document package. Then, calculating the weight of the printed document includes adding the weight of the selected package to the document weight.

Abstract: A handheld mailing system that is easily portable while still maintaining the functionality and security necessary for a complete mailing system is disclosed. A handheld device, such as, for example, a Personal Data Assistant (PDA), is provided with a rating engine and metering device functionality. The weight of an item to be mailed can be input manually, or provided via a communication link from a scale. The rating engine in the PDA will determine the necessary amount of postage, and the metering functionality will provide the authorization and funds for the necessary postage. A printer coupled to the PDA provides a printed label. A security device, such as, for example, a dongle, is provided to ensure security for the mail processing functionality.

Abstract: In a dynamic scale, and a method for controlling a dynamic scale, an item to be weighed is transported by a transport device to a weighing cell. The transport device is operable in a number of different operating modes. At the weighing cell, a measured weight value is obtained, and this measured weight value is subsequently interpreted and, based on the interpretation of the measured weight value, the transport device is switched to a different operating mode, which may include reversing the direction of the transport device so as to permit the item to be re-weighed and subsequently discharged from the scale.

Abstract: A method and computer architecture monitoring resource usage via a global computer network. The computer architecture may include a resource-metering data recorder/translator unit having a global computer network node and, in operation, recording resource usage measured by and associated resource meter. The computer architecture further includes a database and at least one global computer network server, in operation, storing resource usage data recorded by the data recorder/translator unit in the database, receiving a resource usage data query from a user, calling the database for resource usage data relevant to the user, and presenting resource management information based on the relevant resource usage data via a global computer network site to the user.

Abstract: Postal meters can print envelopes with indicia that include embedded information. This embedded information can be used for a variety of purposes, including indicating postal value, allowing tamper detection, conveying address or mail sorting/routing information, permitting linking to URLs, conveying public or private messages, creating philatelic collectibles, mail tracking and management, etc. The indicia need not have a utilitarian appearance—postal value and other information can be represented by printing of any form (aesthetic artwork or even tinting) extending over any part of the envelope (or envelope label). Such functionality can be provided using meters at corporate settings, or through equipment available at post offices (e.g., for consumer or USPS use). Desirably, such devices have network connectivity, e.g., to link to databases and exchange information with other systems. The information embedding can take various forms, including but not limited to digital watermarking.

Abstract: A system and method for computing postal/carrier rates encodes a weight value for an item to be shipped or mailed in bar code form. The bar code is scanned, at a different location, to input the weight value into a program which computes a postal/carrier rate. A mark bearing the correct postage is then generated and affixed to the item. By encoding and scanning weight information in bar-code form, office efficiency is enhanced and costs are significantly reduced. Instead of bar codes, maxicodes and other coded marks may be used. Further, additional data may be encoded with the weight value for billing and accounting purposes. The invention is also especially well suited to computing postal/carrier rates for heavy and unusually sized items of mail.

Abstract: An electronic scale integrally formed within the housing of computer keyboard. The scale includes an item holder which may be removably attached to a weighing unit mounted in a clearance region located at a rear portion of the keyboard housing. In operation, the weighing unit outputs weight measurement signals along signal lines to one of a variety of processing and/or display devices so that, for example, postage for the item being weighed may be calculated. The electronic scale may also be incorporated within a housing having an attachment device for removably or permanently attaching the housing to any surface desired.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing mail is provided. The mail is serially fed from a stack of mail into a system transport. The system transport conveys the mail to a reader, which scans the mail to obtain image data corresponding to at least a portion of each piece. From the imaging station, the mail is conveyed to a scale, which weighs each piece. After the address for a piece of mail is determined, the piece is conveyed to a labeler, which applies a postage label onto the piece. In the preferred method of operation, the postage printed on the label is determined based on the determined address and the determined weight of the piece. After the postage label is adhered to the piece, it is conveyed past a verifier, which scans the printed label to ensure that the postage was printed properly, and the label was properly adhered. The mail is then sorted and stacked in a plurality of output bins.

Abstract: An ultra-heavy mail piece processing system first collects the data to be printed out and then formats the data for printing. A rendering process then determines how the mail piece will be printed. Based on the total number of pages in the mail piece, the system will direct mail pieces having a total number of pages equal to or greater than an upper bound to an ultra-heavy handling process. The data stream for each ultra-heavy mail piece is split into a data stream for the first page and a data stream for all the second pages for the mail piece. The data stream for each first page is sent to a printer for printing in one-up format. The data stream for each set of second pages is reformatted to allow the data stream for each set of second pages to be sent to and printed on a different printer from the first printer in a two-up format.

Abstract: An automated self-service mail processing and storing system is disclosed which is capable of receiving input from and providing instructions to a user via a touch-sensitive screen or a digitized voice system. The system is capable of weighing the mail item, receiving user identification information from a credit/debit card, for example, for payment, calculating the charge for shipment and deducting that amount from the user's charge account, and securely storing the item for subsequent pickup. The system contains a novel weighing means capable of detecting minute vibrations for purposes of obtaining an accurate weight amount. The system may also contain a tracking bar code generation means and a tracking bar code verification system. Optionally, a dual floppy disk system allows the user to send electronic mail, and a built-in facsimile apparatus allows the user to send “FAX” information through the telephone line.

Abstract: In a method an arrangement for controlling a dynamic scale is set via an input unit according to the respective requirements for processing a mixed mail stack, the setting optionally ensuing on the basis of selected shipping parameters and/or operating parameters that are displayed via a display unit. A modification of the operating parameters and data corresponding to the setting can be undertaken and stored in the non-volatile memory of the scale. Weighing of a supplied piece of mail takes place and a controller drives a conveyor of the scale such that the piece of mail is transported to a further processing station dependent on the operating parameters and data that have been set.

Abstract: In an improved postage scale system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The display on such a system is adjustable for comfortable viewing thereof. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system.

Abstract: A franking machine has a housing with at least a first housing part which is configured such that a retrofittable weighing unit can be fitted therein. The first housing part defines a recess in the housing. The recess is configured such that the weighing unit can be inserted. Fastening devices are provided at the recess for fastening a second housing part which closes the recess.

Abstract: A system, method, and software re-arranges or modifies a master mailing list used by software-controlled mail preparation apparatus in order to re-schedule mailings to the same address so that they can be combined, thereby reducing costs associated with separate mailings.

Abstract: An automated court docketing system that supplies evidence of the time and date that a document was filed with the court. This invention also processes and accepts payment and generates a receipt reflecting the date/time of submission and payment of the required fees. When needed, a docket number is supplied.

Abstract: An electronic scale cartridge plugs into a piece of office equipment and/or a portable electronic device to provide a weight signal to be used in computing a postal or private carrier rate. The piece of office equipment may be a personal computer or one of its peripheral or input devices. The portable electronic device may be a personal digital assistant or a wireless communications device. Preferably, the scale cartridge has a connector which fits a universal or standard port, thereby allowing the cartridge to be connected to any number of devices without modification. Postage is computed in accordance with a program stored in the computer or portable device. Preferably, the program is written to step a user through a postage-computing process using one or more interactive display screens. A second type of electronic scale is adapted for attachment to a piece of equipment using any one of a variety of fasteners which may establish a removable and/or rotatable connection to the equipment.

Abstract: In a method an arrangement for controlling a dynamic scale is set via an input unit according to the respective requirements for processing a mixed mail stack, the setting optionally ensuing on the basis of selected shipping parameters and/or operating parameters that are displayed via a display unit. A modification of the operating parameters and data corresponding to the setting can be undertaken and stored in the non-volatile memory of the scale. Weighing of a supplied piece of mail takes place and a controller drives a conveyor of the scale such that the piece of mail is transported to a further processing station dependent on the operating parameters and data that have been set.

Abstract: A parcel self-servicing machine for check-in and/or delivery of items, such as mail items, library books, postal order items etc. Is capable of communicating via a global computer network. Items to be checked in or delivered may be pre-announced via the global computer network. The system may be adapted to receive payment, e.g. credit card payment. May have an item receiving unit having a cylinder shell part defining an interior cavity, the shell part having an opening defined therein for allowing items to pass between the exterior and the interior of the shell part. The system may comprise at least two storage parts for storing items and a connecting part for connecting a chosen storage part and a receiving/delivery platform. A plurality of storage parts may be arranged on a carrousel. Maintenance may be performed on the system by means of an electronic connection between an electronic service tool and the control unit of the system.

Abstract: An apparatus for weighing moving postal items, particularly letters arranged standing on edge, has a weighing pan for the postal items having a lightweight structure resistant to bending and being torsionally stiff, the weighing pan being coupled to a weighing cell at the approximate location of the shared center of gravity of the weighing pan 6 and a piece of mail arranged centrally on the weighing pan 6 and having the highest allowable weight and the largest allowable dimensions. The weighing pan has a back wall 61 for guiding the piece of mail and a transport unit for the piece of mail that simultaneously forms the bottom of the weighing pan.

Abstract: An electronic scale integrally formed within the housing of a piece of office equipment increases a user's work space in a home or business environment. The piece of equipment may be a personal computer or one of its peripheral devices. A mailing system automatically computes postal and/or private carrier rates for items of mail based on weight signals derived from the electronic scale. Since the scale is integrated into the computer, all mailing tasks are performed at a user's desk using the least space possible. The system is performed in accordance with a computer program which steps a user through the postage-computing method using one or more interactive display screens.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and arrangement for data processing in a mail shipping system, wherein a piece of mail is detected and scanned in the transport path leading to a postage meter machine. Information obtained by the scanning of the piece of mail is automatically entered into the postage meter machine, and this information includes an identification of a number of items (pages or inserts such as disks or other information carriers). In the postage meter machine, the weight of the piece of mail is calculated by multiplying the item count by an average item weight stored in the postage meter machine, and adding this to the container weight, such as an envelope weight, for the piece of mail, also stored in the postage meter machine. The fee for shipping the piece of mail is then calculated in the postage meter machine using the calculated weight and a fee table for a carrier selected for shipping the piece of mail.

Abstract: In an improved postage scale system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The display on such a system is adjustable for comfortable viewing thereof. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system.

Abstract: The invention proposes a network for managing orders (Oi) for carriage issued by user-clients (Ci) and carried out by carriers (Ti) which includes a central processing unit (UC) linked to the users (Ci) for the receipt and management of orders (Oi) for carriage and, in particular, the distribution of these orders to the various terminals (Bi), each one of which includes a peripheral processing unit (UP) linked to the central processing unit (UC) and means:for identifying the carriers (Ti);for exchange (14) of data between the terminal (Bi) and the approved carriers (Ti);for displaying (16) orders (Oi) to be carried out;for printing (18) and issuing, to a carrier (Ti), slips corresponding to orders to be carried out; these means (12, 14, 16, 18) being linked to the peripheral processing unit (UP).Application, in particular, to the management of a messenger network.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing mail pieces by a mailer for mailing by a postal facility utilizes a manifesting system to evidence payment by the mailer to the postal facility for the cost of the mailing. A discrete batch of mail is identified, and each piece in the batch is weighed in succession by a scale which includes a first data processing means and a first data base, and the weight is entered in the first data base, optionally together with other information that is pertinent to the cost of mailing. A first printer collocated with the scale prints a unique number for each mail piece.

Abstract: Freight forwarders and carriers post published rate and discount information for land, sea and air bearing cargo vessels to allow customers the opportunity to evaluate competitive prices, preferably in one consolidated location (e.g., a web site). A customer navigates to the site to obtain published or discounted rate information offered by a freight forwarder or carrier. The customer may accept a posted rate, in which case the site operator notifies the freight forwarder or carrier. Alternatively, customers, freight forwarders and carriers may negotiate rates for particular lanes of interest using an online interactive auction block.