Once you’ve set up your yard areas and spots, the next step is managing truck and container assignments. Opendock makes this process simple and efficient through driver check-in, automated asset creation, and drag-and-drop assignments.

✅ Step 1: It All Starts with Driver Check-In

When a driver arrives at your facility, they will check in using one of the available methods (tablet or QR code). During this check-in, the driver will provide key details such as:

• Personal Information

• Truck Details

• Trailer/Container Information

Once submitted, Opendock automatically creates corresponding asset records—whether it’s a Truck, Trailer, or Container.

Each arrival creates a new card that appears in the “Waiting Assignment” area within the Live Yard View.

✅ Step 2: Assigning the Truck or Container

From the Waiting Assignment area, you can easily assign the truck or container to an available area and spot.

➡️ How to Assign:

1. Simply drag and drop the arrival card from the Waiting Assignment panel to the desired Area and Spot in your yard map.

2. Once the assignment is made, Opendock will automatically send an SMS to the driver, notifying them of:

   • Their assigned location (e.g., parking spot, dock door)

   • Any next steps as needed

This ensures real-time communication and minimizes the need for manual instructions or radio calls.

✅ Step 3: Understanding Truck Types

When managing assignments, it’s helpful to know the types of truck visits you might encounter:

• Live Load/Unload

  → The driver remains at the facility while the trailer is loaded or unloaded.

• Drop Only

  → The driver drops both the truck and container at the facility, leaving them behind.

• Pick Up Only

  → The driver arrives with only a truck to pick up a preloaded container or trailer.

• Drop and Hook

  → The driver drops off a container and hooks up a different preloaded container for departure.

Each of these visit types can be managed easily within Opendock, ensuring clarity for both your yard team and the drivers.

✅ Step 4: Completing the Visit – Marking Departed

Once the loading, unloading, or drop-off process is complete, it’s time to depart the asset.

➡️ How to Mark as Departed:

1. Select the assigned asset within the Live Yard View.

2. In the right-side panel, scroll to the bottom and click “Departed.”

✅When you mark an asses as departed

• The related appointment tied to that truck or container will automatically be marked "Completed."

• The driver receives any final SMS updates if configured.

This closes the visit loop and ensures your yard data remains accurate and up-to-date.

✅ Benefits of Opendock’s Assignment Flow

✔️ Automated asset creation from driver check-in

✔️ Drag-and-drop assignments for quick and intuitive yard operations

✔️ Automated SMS communication with drivers

✔️ Real-time visibility into truck and container locations

✔️ Automatic appointment completion upon departure