Defining package types

The specific package types that you use (including those for hazardous goods) must first be defined in Carrier Connect. The descriptions of your package types are always specific to each customer. That’s why it’s necessary for you to define your own package types in your system.

Entering package types manually

Proceed as follows:

• You must have the role of I_CAI_EDITMASTERFILEDATA.
1. From the Office, go to Master data – Package types, then click New.
2. Enter an ID and Description (optionally in multiple languages). You can also select an Icon, if you wish.
3. Select the appropriate entry from the Property drop-down list: Standard for the default value, Container, Envelope, Euro pallet, Industry pallet, Non-returnable pallet, or Semi-pallet.
   • We recommend always assigning the package type property. In many scenarios such as with DHL Express or for ocean freight, the property is used to validate services, weights, and dimensions.
4. Under Specifications, enter the dimensions of your package.
5. Click Save & close to save your changes.
6. Repeat these steps if you wish to enter more package types.

• With many carriers, you’ll need to convert your package types (and any hazardous goods package types) to the carrier’s package type codes so that the correct data is transmitted in the EDI message to the carrier. For information on how to convert your package types, see: Converting package types.

• Any routine changes or additions you make to the master data in your host system need to be synced to Carrier Connect. One example of this is when you use new or different package types in your host system.

Importing package types as a CSV file

You can also import your package types as a CSV file in Carrier Connect. Open the package type overview (Master data – Package types) and click Import – Import (CSV). Follow the import dialog.

• Use the Help button to access further information.

CSV file format specifications:

• Use the "UTF-8" character set for the .CSV file.
• Save the Excel file as "CSV UTF-8".
• Field delimiter: Semicolon (";")
• Line separator: CRLF
• Decimal separator: Comma (",")
• No thousands separators
• Decimal places: 2
• Ensure the CSV field formats match those in the table below.

Field formats for importing package types

The following describes the mandatory field formats. Please refer to the table below for details.

Explanations of field formats:

• Functionally required field: An “X” indicates a functionally required field.
• Field format: “an..” indicates an alphanumeric field format. “..” means that up to X characters may be transmitted. The entry “an.. 10” therefore indicates an alphanumeric field of up to 10 characters.