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Sending Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA)
Sending Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA)

See how dispatchers and drivers send email updates with their ETA via Ship.Cars

Daniel M. avatar
Written by Daniel M.
Updated over 8 months ago

Traditionally, the logistics industry has grappled with the challenge of providing precise ETAs due to variables like traffic conditions, weather, and unexpected delays on the route. Yet, the demand for real-time ETA information from customers remains high. Today, if car haulers want to stand out and offer great service, they must find a way to plan, share, and update ETAs all the time.

This isn’t just about keeping up with others; it’s about being the best, earning trust, and being seen as reliable and caring about customer satisfaction. Happy customers are returning customers.

We recognize the challenges our carriers face. We've made it easy for dispatchers and drivers to quickly send and update their ETA's within the web SmartHaul TMS and the SmartHaul App on mobile.

How to send an ETA

The process for dispatchers in the SmartHaul TMS and drivers in the App is the same

  1. Choose an order with no ETA for pickup or delivery

  2. In the Pickup and Delivery details section, click on PROVIDE ETA
    ​

    Call to action button for carrier dispatchers to send ETA to their customers.

  3. Select a date and window of hours for both the pickup and delivery

    1. You can choose a custom window of hours if you can't be sure the ones provided are fitting.

  4. Optional but recommended is to share details with your customer if your ETA date is after the originally requested dates in your contract.

    A dispatchers fill-up form for ETA

Once done, your customer (the shipper) will receive an email notification with your estimated time of arrival.

Best Practices for ETA Updates

  1. Update Regularly: Keep ETAs up-to-date to ensure all parties are informed of any changes.

    1. Open the order with the outdated ETA

    2. Click on the area with the scheduled timeframe (for Delivery, the button is green)

    3. Change the timeframe and submit

  2. Communicate Proactively: Don't wait for customers to call asking for ETAs. They always call unexpected. Instead, allocate a few minutes a day to go over your active orders and make sure the ETAs are still true.

Support

For further assistance or to report issues with the ETA functionality, please contact Ship.Cars Support:

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