Read the dispatch batch

Read the dispatch batch — guided practice

Create unique parcel records and separate holds.

Use a text editor, a free document editor, or paper. Start from the following fictional records; they reset this lesson even if your earlier answer differed. Fictional North Room sends books and cloth bags. Orders: O1 three books, parcel P1; O2 two bags, P2; O3 one book, P3. An extra unassigned item U1 is a bottle with unknown contents. Policy: only listed harmless items enter this practice batch; unidentified items are HOLD for supervisor Lee. No addresses or shipments are real.

1. 1. Create the mapping

   Write each order and parcel pair.

   You should see: O1→P1; O2→P2; O3→P3.

   Unique pairs prevent label swaps.

2. 2. Count the contents

   Record item quantities per parcel.

   You should see: P1 3 books; P2 2 bags; P3 1 book.

   Quantities belong to each order rather than a vague batch total.

3. 3. Separate the unknown

   Place U1 on a hold record with Lee as owner.

   You should see: U1 HOLD—contents unidentified; outside dispatch batch.

   Unknown contents cannot be assumed mailable.

4. 4. Reconcile the batch

   Count parcels and total listed items.

   You should see: 3 parcels containing 6 items.

   Parcel count and item count measure different things.