Domain model#

This page explains the logistics concepts used across the ALPHA API: how items are packed into boxes and pallets, how containers are used for transport, and how packing specifications differ from packing instructions.

Quick reference#

Concept	Description	Typical relationship
Item	Product unit being shipped	Packed into boxes
Box	First packaging level	Grouped on pallets or shipped loose
Pallet	Unit load for handling	Loaded into containers or trucks
Container	Transport loading space	Holds pallets or boxes
Packing Specification	Packing rules for a product	Links item, box, and pallet setup
Order	Shipment request	Contains order items and lane context
Packing Instructions	Shipment-specific packing output	Generated from optimization

Packing hierarchy#

Item → Box → Pallet → Container

Item#

An item is the individual product being shipped, and the smallest unit in the packing workflow. It typically includes name, weight, dimensions, and product group.

Box#

A box is the first packaging level used to group items. Boxes are usually stacked on pallets.

Variant	Description
Loose boxes	Shipped without a pallet when the transportation mode allows it
Prebuilt boxes	Already packed before submission; you provide dimensions and weight, and item-into-box packing is skipped

Pallet#

A pallet groups boxes for forklift handling. Common types include EUR and US pallets. Definitions may include dimensions, maximum height, maximum weight, and allowed box placement.

Container#

A container is the transport unit for long-distance shipping (for example 20ft, 40ft, or 40ft-HC).

Operational concepts#

Concepts you encounter when configuring lanes and submitting orders.

Packing Specification#

A packing specification describes how a customer packages products (Item → Box → Pallet) before shipment.

Order#

An order is a shipment request: lane, transportation mode, order items, reference, and related cargo.

Order items#

Order items are the products on an order (item reference and quantity). The optimizer uses them to determine packing.

Transportation mode#

A transportation mode describes how goods move (air, ocean full/less-than container load, truck full/less-than truckload). Modes can constrain pallet height, container types, and loose boxes.

Packing Instructions#

Packing instructions describe how suppliers must pack a specific shipment.

Packing Specifications	Packing Instructions
How items can be packed (setup rules)	How they should be packed for a shipment (output)