Linked Dispatches

Overview

This module explains how to link dispatches in OpsDriver. Linking dispatches is useful when the same vehicle and driver are staying out between trips—such as on multi-leg journeys or overnight runs—eliminating the need to return to the yard.

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1. What Are Linked Dispatches?

Linked Dispatches allow you to:

• Connect two or more trips assigned to the same vehicle and driver

• Communicate that the vehicle will not return to the yard in between

• Clarify routing and availability for both dispatch and the driver

This helps optimize scheduling and reduce mileage or idle time.

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2. Where to Link Dispatches

You can link dispatches from either:

• The Vehicle Availability Page, or

• The Driver Availability Page

This view allows you to see overlaps and assign links based on availability.

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3. How to Create Linked Dispatches

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the Vehicle Availability or Driver Availability screen.

2. Identify two trips with:

   • The same vehicle

   • The same driver

   • That would benefit from not returning to the yard

3. Click the Linked Dispatches button.

4. Select the first dispatch.

5. Select the second dispatch.

6. Click Save Links.

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4. What Happens After Linking

• The trips are now visually connected on the schedule.

• A message appears if you open either dispatch, showing:

  • The linked status

  • A reminder that vehicle and driver must remain the same to keep the link

If either is changed, the link breaks and must be relinked manually.

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5. Benefits of Linked Dispatches

• Reduces confusion for drivers and dispatchers

• Improves operational efficiency for remote or long-distance trips

• Helps prevent scheduling conflicts or unintended yard returns

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Best Practices

• Use linking when overnight stays or back-to-back trips are involved

• Only link dispatches with identical vehicle and driver assignments

• Communicate linked status with drivers via work tickets or portal notes