1.1. Introduction

The Star Bill of Lading (SE) Single User Edition program is capable of printing all of your Bill of Lading short form requirements to a standard InkJet or Laser Printer. It saves you Time and Money every time you use it. No more Expensive Forms to purchase. No more hand writing or typing to a form is needed. Simply fill in the product shipment info, select a trucking company, click Print and you're done. There is a default number of copies that you define. It can't be any easier. The software keeps a log of all your BOL's for research purposes or to reprint. You can also Copy/New. This creates a new BOL from a copy. There are many features to help you in this process.

Listed below are many of the features that are included in this fine software product.

* Stores Consignee Information for easy retrieval. Includes Quick Add function for easy addition.
* Use for any Carrier/Trucking Company
* No more 5 copies of different trucking company software packages just to print Bill of Ladings. Use this one for all your shipments.
* Custom Modifications are available to fit your personal/company needs.
* Stores Item Information along with defaults. (weights, pkg, etc.)
* Stores Shippers/Trucking Information
* Multiple Deliver to's assigned to Consignee.
* Multiple Qty's and UM in detail section, 1 skid, 25 pcs, etc.
* Prints Shipping Labels - Using Avery 5168, 5163, 5164, 5165, 5526, type labels or Bar Code type printers.
* Prepaid/Collect/Third Party Billing
* Collect payment processing.
* Special Instructions database - Defaults by Consignee.
* Routing Information - Defaults by Consignee.
* Hazardous Material Processing. (US Shippers)
* Dangerous Goods Processing (Canadian Shippers) 
* Multiple Shipper Capabilities
* Prints up to 6 copies at a time.
* Print Blank BOL's - Just in case.
* Send BOL's via email.
* Customizable field display. Only display fields you use, remove the ones you never use.
* Copy/New BOL Creation - Stop re-keying the same information over and over again.
* Reports/Lists, Daily Manifest, Consignee Manifest, BOL report, Shipping report, Daily Carrier Manifest, along with database file listings.
* Send Reports to Excel Database for further processing.
* Stable Database System
* Ability to place Graphic Logo on BOL printout.
* Custom Messaging on copies of BOL
* File/Data Import Capable for Consignees, Deliver-to's, Items and Shippers
* Print to Dot-Matrix printers on Pre-Printed Forms, or on multi-part carbonless paper. - Pre-Printed Forms available for purchase.
* Too many new features to list. Download a copy today and evaluate the software yourself. You will not be disappointed
* Network Version Available - Allows for up to 3 concurrent users at a time. It allows 5, but will slow down access without the additional purchase of C/S database system to handle the processing.
* Carrier Edition Available - This is a customized version that is available for Carriers only.
* Windows 98, Me, 2000, XP, Vista, W7 and W10 Compatible.
* Many more features...

1.2. Getting Started

1.3. Available Versions

There are 3 different versions of this software available.  
We have listed these versions below with a short description about each one.

SE Version - Single User Edition

This version allows for one copy of the software to be installed on a workstation, and the database resides on that workstation. The cost of this version is $199.00usd for the downloaded version and $214.00usd for the CD/USB version.

NE Version - Network Edition

This version allows you to install the software on a network of computers. Have up to 3 local concurrent users connected to the database at one time. Actually you can have up to 5 but the system will slow down without the assistance of a separate C/S database product.  Inquire about this option if you have the need for 4 or more users concurrently. All the data files reside on a Network Server or a shared workstation. The cost of this version is $399.00usd for the downloaded version and $414.00usd for the CD/USB version.

CE Version - Carrier Edition

This version is only available to Carriers.
The software is the same as our Network Edition with the following exception.
Your customers can only create BOL's with your Company as the Carrier. The system will install onto your customers system, pre-loaded with your Company name.
This drives more business to you as they cannot use the software for any other Carrier.  There is only a customization fee involved with creating your own version of our software. The cost is only $299.00usd. This gives you your own version customized with your Company as the only Carrier capable to print on the bills. You are given an unlimited number of copies to give away to your Customers. Whether you have 10 Customers or 10000, the value is exceptional.

2.1. Where to obtain software

You can download the different versions of this software from our web site https://www.starbol.com/boldownloads

 

2.2. How do I actually Download and Install the software?

YouTube Video of Instructions to download and Install this software.

STEP ONE: Download Star Bill of Lading software.

Star Bill of Lading is distributed in a self-extracting executable file. You can download this software from our web site at http://www.starresoft.com/boldownload.htm 
You don't need any external programs to install and setup Star Bill of Lading on your PC, just follow the instructions below.

In these instructions we assume you are using Windows XP, NT, Vista or Windows 7.

Once you arrive at the site listed above, you will click the download button for the version you require. Either the (SE) Single User Edition or the (NE) Network Edition. After you do this: 

With Internet Explorer, a dialog box will appear asking you to either Run, Save or Cancel. 

With Firefox, it will ask to Save or Cancel.

With Chrome, your download will begin and appear at the bottom of the screen

The best option is to save the file. Then it may ask where to save the file. The default that pops up is the best and safest option. Then select Save.

STEP TWO: Installing Star Bill of Lading software

Once you have downloaded Star Bill of Lading software, you are ready to install it. After the download is finished, the dialog box will say Download Complete. From here you will select Run (Internet Explorer) or Double Click the downloaded file (Firefox) or Single Click the file name at the bottom of the screen (Google Chrome).

This will open up the installation dialog box. Just follow the instructions. During the installation, you will be prompted to accept the license agreement, along with other information needed to perform the installation.  When the program is finished installing, and you are running Windows XP or earlier, you will be prompted to run the software.  If you are running Windows 7, W10, the installation program will close and you will be finished with the install.

You are ready to run the software. An Icon should have been placed on your desktop. Simply double click and the software will run. 

 

2.3. When I try to download it states that the file is corrupt. What do I do?

You need to delete the file you downloaded. Then, be sure to clear the temporary files in your browser. Then try re-downloading. It should download fine and install.

If you do not know how to delete your temporary files, here are the instructions for deleting them from Internet Explorer and Firefox browsers.

Internet Explorer:
Run the program. Click on the Tools menu, then Internet Options. This will display the Options screen. Click on the Delete button listed under Browsing History. Then Click on the Delete File button listed under Temporary Internet Files. Then Click on Yes when prompted. Then Click Close, then OK. This will delete your temporary files from the system.

Firefox:
Run the program. At the top of the Firefox window, Click on the Tools menu, and Select Clear Private Data...The Clear Private Data window will open, allowing you to select which private data you want to clear. Selecting Cache should clear the file. Click on Clear Private Data Now, to clear the data; or click on Cancel, to close the Clear Private Data window, without clearing any private data.

Chrome:
Run the program. In the upper right corner of the Chrome screen, you will see a wrench icon. Click it and navigate to the Tools menu then click Clear browsing data. The Clear browsing data dialog screen will appear. Select which files you wish to clear. For our purposes here, you only need to check the Empty the cache box. Then click Clear browsing data. This will delete your temporary files. 

2.4. Installing Single User Edition

If you have downloaded the software from our web site, you would have downloaded a file called bol1100.exe

All you need to do is to run the file you downloaded. To do this, you can either dbl-click on it, or run it. This will run the installation program. During the installation, you will be prompted to accept the license agreement, along with other information needed to perform the installation. When the program is finished installing, and you are running Windows XP or earlier, you will be prompted to run the software. If you are running Windows 7, 8, or 10, the installation program will close and you will be finished with the install.

Here is a sample of the screens you will see during the installation process:

To set up the Single User Edition of this software, you must follow these instructions.

1.) Install the Star Bill of Lading Single User Edition program onto your workstation that will be running the software. 

2.) You will then need to run the software on the workstations so that it will create your new data files (assuming this is a new install).

3.) When you run the new installation you will be prompted to create the new database to store your data in.  

4.) If you choose the default location, they new database will be installed in the following folder location:

• C:\Documents and Settings\Public Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data in Windows XP or earlier 
• C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data in Windows Vista, 7,8 or 10. 

4a.) or you can choose to select the folder of your choice. 

5.) After this option is completed the new files will be created and the program will close.  You will need to re-run the Bill of Lading software for the new files to take effect.

6.) When the software if run with the new database setup, you will be sent to Bill of Lading Setup Questionnaire so you can answer some questions on how you would like the system to be setup and some of the different options to be used.  All of the answers you give can be changed at a later time from inside the program, this just helps get you started.  You can change the information that is defaulted or leave as is.  Click on the Next Button at the bottom of the screen to continue through all the screens then click Exit

7.) Your new database should now reside in the folder you created on the workstation that you just set up. And the installation process is completed..

 

 

2.5. Installing Network Edition of Software

If you have downloaded the software from our web site, you would have downloaded a file called bol1100N.exe

All you need to do is to run the file you downloaded. To do this, you can either dbl-click on it, or run it. This will run the installation program. During the installation, you will be prompted to accept the license agreement, along with other information needed to perform the installation. When the program is finished installing, the installation program will close and you will be finished with the install.

Here is a sample of the screens you will see during the installation process:

To set up the Network Version of this software, you must follow these instructions.

1.) Install the Star Bill of Lading Network Edition program onto your workstation and any other workstations that will be running the software. 

2.) After you have finished the install, the default folder for the data is located below.

C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data
(This folder contains all the necessary data files to run the Bill of Lading program.)

3.) Next check to see if the program runs on all of the workstations you installed the software to. You may be prompted to fill out the Questionnaire for the software. You may skip this for now. If everything works, then you are ready to proceed. (Do not worry about the data yet. This will be setup later.)

4.) Create a folder on your server. (Our server is F:) For example, Star BOL Data.
Right click your server (1), click on New (2) and select Folder (3)

Rename the New folder.

Now you need to copy the current data files to the new folder on your server. Locate your current data.
Navigate to the default data location. Should be C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading/data
Right click on the data folder and then click Copy.

Then navigate to your new data folder location on your sever (or workstation serving as server).
Right click and select Paste.

Your new data folder should now reside in the folder you created on the server

5.) After this option is completed the new files will be created and the program will close.  You will need to re-run the Bill of Lading software for the new files to take effect.

6.) When the software if run with the new database setup, you will be sent to Bill of Lading Setup Questionnaire so you can answer some questions on how you would like the system to be setup and some of the different options to be used.  All of the answers you give can be changed at a later time from inside the program, this just helps get you started.  You can change the information that is defaulted or leave as is.  Click on the Next Button at the bottom of the screen to continue through all the screens then click Exit

7.) Your new database should now reside in the folder you created on the server or shared workstation that you just set up. And are good to go on this workstation.

WORKSTATION CONFIGURATION SETUP

8.) Now you need to setup your workstation(s) to point to the folder on the server that you just created and loaded with the data files. You need to run the utility called Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. This will handle the setup process for you. This program was installed during the installation process and can be run by clicking on the Windows Start button, then use the Star Bill of Lading drop down and select Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. 

This will display the Current Location of the data files. To configure the data pointer, you need to click on the Set Location button. 

This will show you a layout of your folders and network drives. Select the Server/Workstation that you copied the original data files to: Our example, F:\Star BOL Data\data.

Then click OK. If you did this correctly, and the files reside in this folder, you will be notified. Then click Post. Your system should be setup correctly.

Perform the same task on each of the other workstations you have installed the software on, and the installation process is completed.

 

2.6. Moving system to a new PC

Here are the instructions to copy the program and files over to a new system.

The first thing you want to do is to install the original installation program on the new computer.  This needs to be the original version you purchased so the registration codes that you have will unlock it from the trial version to the registered version.  This will set up the new system to run the program.  The only problem is that there will be no data in the new program.  You need to copy the old files from your old computer to your new computer.

Run a backup of the data from within the program - Click on File, Backup/Restore Data, then Backup/Restore Data Files to Archives. 

Select a location where you would like to save the file to. 

When you click on the folder at the end of the line, you will be given choices.
For our example, we selected Desktop. Click Save.

This will take you back to the Backup screen.

Click Backup and the files should be backed up to a file called bolfiles.zip.

You can copy this file to the new computer and run the Restore function. This will ask where the restore file is. Select where you saved it and your data should be restored completely.

If you no longer have the original installation and are not current with your Support/Upgrades/Updates license, then you would be required to purchase the upgrade to the latest version as we do not store older versions on our server for download. The upgrade purchase page is available here: http://www.starresoft.com/bolupgrades.htm

If you are running the current version on the old machine, then download the software from our web site as the registration codes you already have will unlock it from the trial version to the registered version.

 

2.7. Running the software

After you have successfully installed the software onto your computer, you are now ready to run the software for the first time.

To run the software, you have two options. If a shortcut was placed onto your desktop, you can run the software by just dbl-clicking on the icon called Star Bill of Lading.  

If a shortcut was not installed, or if you do not want to run it from the shortcut, you can run it via the Windows Start menu. Click on the Start Button which is located at the bottom left corner of the desktop screen. Scroll down until you see the Star Bill of Lading folder. Open the folder and then select Star Bill of Lading. This will launch the software.

2.8. Says not compatible with W11 - probably because running in W11 S Mode.

How to Check If You're Using S Mode. You can check whether you're using S Mode by heading to Settings > System > About. On the About page, scroll down to the “Windows Specifications” section. If you see the words “in S mode” to the right of the Edition entry, you're using an S Mode PC.

If your system is in S mode, you will need to turn off this option to be able to install this application.

https://www.techbout.com/switch-off-s-mode-windows-11-71395/

 

 

3.1. Network Setup Instructions

Star Bill of Lading Program Network Version.
Network Setup and Upgrade Instructions

To set up the Network Version of this software, you should follow these instructions.

1.) If you are already running a version of the Star Bill of Lading Software you should backup your Current Star Bill of Lading data.

Here are the instructions for Running a Backup of your database.
How to Backup your Database

2.) Install the Star Bill of Lading Network Edition program onto your workstation AND any other workstations that will be running the software.

All you need to do is to run the file you downloaded. To do this, you can either double-click on it, or run it. This will run the installation program. During the installation, you will be prompted to accept the license agreement along with other information needed to perform the installation. When the program is finished installing, if you are running Windows XP or earlier, you will be prompted to run the software. If you are running Windows Vista or 7, the installation program will close and you will be finished with the install.

Here is a sample of some of the screens you will see during the install process:

Follow the prompts. When the installation is complete, click Finish.

3.) After you have finished the install, the default folder for the data is located below.

C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data
(This folder contains all the necessary data files to run the Bill of Lading program.)

4.) Next check to see if the program runs on all of the workstations you installed the software to. If everything works, then you are ready to proceed. (Do not worry about the data yet. This will be setup later.)

5.) Create a folder on your server. (Our server is F:) For example, Star BOL Data.
Right click your server (1), click on New (2) and select Folder (3)


Rename the new folder 

Our example is Star BOL Data

Now you need to copy the current data files to the new folder on your server. Locate your current data.
Navigate to the default data location. Should be C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading/data
Right click on the data folder and then click Copy.

 
Now go back to the location of the new folder you created on your server and paste the data you copied.

Your new data folder should now reside in the folder you created on the server

WORKSTATION CONFIGURATION SETUP

6.) Now you need to setup your workstation(s) to point to the folder on the server that you just created and loaded with the data files. You need to run the utility called Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. This will handle the setup process for you. This program was installed during the installation process and can be run by clicking on the Windows Start button, then Programs, then Star Bill of Lading, then Utilities, then Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. 

This will display the Current Location of the data files. To configure the data pointer, you need to click on the Set Location button. 

This will show you a layout of your folders and network drives. Select the Server/Workstation that you copied the original data files to: ie. F:\Star BOL Data\data. 

Then click OK. If you did this correctly, and the files reside in this folder, you will be notified. Then click Exit. Your system should be setup correctly.

Be sure to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility on each of your workstations. 

7. If you have been using the software on a single workstation and upgraded to the Network Edition, you should run the Restore procedure so the database information you were using is now on the server or shared workstation.  Here is how this is performed.

How to Restore your already backup database.

You should be good to go.

3.2. Network Upgrade Instructions from a previous version.

To upgrade/update your software, follow these instructions:

1. BACKUP YOUR CURRENT DATA FILES.  You can either run the Backup procedure in the software, or manually locate the data folder that contains the data files and make a copy of them.  Better to be safe.

2. Find out what version of the Network Edition you are using. To do this, run the program, then click on the Help menu on top of the screen, then click About...

This will display a window with the version number listed.

3. BE SURE EVERYONE IS OUT OF THE SOFTWARE ON ALL WORKSTATIONS IT IS INSTALLED ON.

4. Download the latest version of the software from our website and install it on each workstation.

The latest version can be found here: Bill of Lading Software

Instructions for installing the software can be found here: Installing Network Edition

DATA CONVERSION ONLY IF UPGRADING FROM VERSION 5.xx AND EARLIER

5. Since you are upgrading the Network Version, you will need to convert the current data for use in the latest version. (If upgrading from version 6 to a newer version, this can be skipped as it is an automatic process)

First, you need to know where the old data resides for the previous version. We would assume it is somewhere on your network. If you are upgrading from version 5 or earlier, run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility from the previous version. To do this, click the Windows Start Button then Programs (or All Programs) then Star Bill of Lading 4,5 then Utilities then Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

This will tell you where the data for version 4, 5 resides on your network.

Second, you need to run the Conversion Utility. This does not need to be run if upgrading from version 6 or newer. Only versions earlier than 6. Click on the Windows Start Button, then scroll to and open the Star Bill of Lading folder and select Convert data from older version.

This will ask you what version you are converting from. Be sure to select the correct version, and click convert.

You will be prompted for the folders that contain your old data and where to place the converted data.

Be sure to select the folder that contains the old data. And, normally just leave the 'to' default location alone. This will tell the program to convert the data over to the local workstation. It is optimal to do this before installing the upgrade on the other workstations. If everything is correct, then just click on the Convert button. This will convert your old data and load it into the latest version database. Then click on Exit. You are finished with this step.

6. If everything went smoothly, then you should have a copy of the converted database on your local workstation under: 

• Windows Vista or 7: C:\Program Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data

You can run the software and verify everything is working correctly. Then you will need to copy this data folder over to a place on your server, shared workstation, or wherever you plan on sharing this information on your network.

7. Then run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility to point the current workstation to the converted data location.

WORKSTATION CONFIGURATION SETUP

This program was installed during the installation process and can be run by clicking on the Windows Start button, scroll to the Star Bill of Lading folder, then select Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

This will display the Current Location of the data files. To configure the data pointer, you need to click on the Set Location button. 

This will show you a layout of your folders and network drives. Select the Server/Workstation that you copied the original data files to: Our Example - F:\Star BOL Data\data. 

Then click OK. If you did this correctly, and the files reside in this folder, you will be notified. Then click Exit. Your system should be setup correctly.

Afterwards, run the Star Bill of Lading program to be sure the current workstation is running and accessing the data. If this is correct, then we can proceed to the other workstations.

8. After you have upgraded to the latest version, you may be prompted for a registration key. If so, just request a new key, and we will make sure you are valid on your support license. If you are, then we will send you a new set of keys. Just enter them into each workstation. You are finished upgrading.

Please contact our Help Desk if you have any trouble with any of the aforementioned steps. We will gladly assist you.

WARNING:
One thing we must mention; if you have any data already in version11, this will be lost during the conversion, as the data from version 5 will overwrite everything in version 11. We just need to mention this in case you have any data already in version 11.

3.3. How to move the data to a different location.

To move the data file from one network location to another, you need to find out the actual location of the data files on your system. To do this, run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility from an active workstation. You can find the instructions below:

Click on the Windows Start Button, All Programs, Star Bill of Lading, Utilities, then Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

This will display the Utility that will tell you the current location of your files.

Then, just use Windows Explorer to navigate to the file location and copy the whole data folder from it's current location and move it to wherever you wish it to be. 

After this is done, re-run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility again, and point to the new data folder location.

7.23. How do I run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility

This will need to be run on each of the workstations. 

 

3.4. Pointing a workstation installation to the Network Stored data

If you already have one workstation pointing to the software data on a Network drive, and you need to add another workstation installation and point to the data there are a couple of options.

When you first run the software after the installation, you will be prompted to build the database for the software.  Go ahead and select Yes, and a set of files will be created locally.  You will also go through a questionaire to setup the data files for your usage.  You can skip throough all of this.  When you run the software, you should see the main screen.  Just click on the Help menu, then About..
This will show you the About screen.  Listed on this screen is the current database folder location.

Move your mouse over to this link and click on it.  It will display a pop-up menu as shown.

Select the Open/Create Database option. This will bring up a folder browser to allow you to select the folder that contains the Bill of Lading data files on your Server or shared workstation.

After selection is made, click OK.  This will tell the program that the data files are located in the selected location.  If they are not, you will be prompted to create them.  After selection is made, you will see the new location on the about screen.

You should now be sharing the data with this workstation.  Perform this task on each of the workstations you are installing the software on.

 

3.5. Advantage Database C/S Installation Information

The ADS C/S (Advantage Database Software Client Server Software) is the relational database management system (RDMS) solution that is needed if you choose to run the Star Bill of Lading software in a Terminal Services or C/S environment.

This RDMS software product is offered by SAP, a leader in RDMS software products and solutions.

A free 30 day trial evaluation is available for download here: SAP ADS C/S Download links via StarreSoft.com

If you need to run our BOL software in one of these environments or need a solution to speed up the data processing of a shared environment, you need to run this DB solution.

The reasons you need this software product is because our base package of the Star Bill of Lading software comes with a multi-user copy of their Local Database Server, which is installed on the workstation that the BOL software is installed on.  This handles all the data processing of the BOL software but on a Local Level, which is fine for Single User Installations and some Multi-User Installations if the data processing is at a minimum because each data transaction is processed at the local level (on the workstation) and if the database location is local, everything runs smoothly and quickly.  But if you are running the BOL and accessing the data on a File Server, each transaction that is called is accessed and processed on the local level, and the time to access each data record of each data file, takes time to pass this information back and forth between the workstation and server.  So it is much slower to run if you have a lot of data to lookup and process, or if you have multiple users accessing the data at one time.  So this software moves the processing to the Server level or data location level, which is exponentially faster.  It is also required if running in a Terminal Services environment as this restriction is placed in the software by SAP.

The only requirements needed to run the ADS C/S software is as follows:

1. The ADS C/S software needs to be installed and running on the server or shared workstation, as it runs as a service on the machine.

2. The Star Bill of Lading Data File Folder must reside on the same physical drive as the ADS C/S is installed and running on.  So, if the ADS C/S software is on the C: drive, the Star Bill of Lading data folder has to also be on the C: drive of that machine.

3. The Star Bill of Lading software can be running either on that same machine or running on the workstations pointing to the data folder location.  This is done using the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

That is all that needs to be done to run in these environments.  

So if it is a TS environment, or a C/S enviroment, this software product is needed.

Pricing of the ADS C/S software is based on concurrent users accessing the database at one time.  Configurations come in 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 concurrent user access.  There are more if needed, just ask. 

This software can be purchased directly from SAP.

SAP ADS Sales Team

The cost of the ADS C/S software is as follows:
1 user server $159
2 user server $269
3 user server $450
5 user server $650
10 user server $1240

 

 

3.6. SAP ADS C/S Software Registration Instructions

When you purchase the SAP Advantage Database C/S software you will receive a Serial Number, and a Validation/Authorization code that needs to be placed in the SAP ADS Server Software application to inform the software it is now a registered version.  Here are the instructions to perform this task.

We are going to assume you have already installed the software and it is up and running under the Evaluation Mode.

1. Open your Windows File Explorer on your Workstation or Server where the SAP ADS C/S Software is installed.  Browse over to the folder that the software is installed on. Probably - C:\Program Files\Advantage 12.x\Server
Or, could be C:\Program Files (x86)\Advantage 12.x\Server (if using 32 bit version)

Locate the file called - adsstamp.exe and dbl-click on it to run it.

2. After it runs, you will be display the following screen.

3. Click on the License button displayed on the screen. You will then be display the following screen.

4. Now key in the Serial Number and Validation Code that you were given.  Click Next and you can then close out the screen.  The software should now be registered.

If you still receive an error - Error 7046: Evaluation period expired. AxServerConnect., then I would suggest uninstalling the ADS server software and re-installing and trying the registration process again.

 

3.7. Terminal Services Setup

This section is for setting up and running the Star Bill of Lading software in a Terminal Services environment.

If you are looking to run this software in a Terminal Services environment, you will need to perform a couple of tasks to make this possible.

First, you will need a purchase a copy of the Star Bill of Lading Network Edition software. Upon purchase, you will receive a copy of the registered version of the software. Now this is not the trial version that is available via our web site, it is a special download only available to customer that purchase the software. There will be a link to download it upon purchase. Or, if you purchase the software on CD or USB drive, it will be shipped with this version of the software. 

Because of this restriction, you are NOT able to run a trial of the Star Bill of Lading software in this environment.  Sorry.

Second, you will need to download and install the Advantage Database Server software onto the server/workstation that will contain the data folder for the Star Bill of Lading software.  See this topic for more information ADS Server Setup information Of course this software you can obtain a 30 day trial before purchasing.

After these tasks are completed, you should be able to log into the Terminal Server and call the Star Bill of Lading software.

You would need to purchase the SAP Advantage Database Server Software.

Here is the current price list for the SAP Advantage Database C/S Software:

2 User Server - $269.00
3 User Server - $450.00
5 User Server - $650.00
10 User Server - $1240.00
If a solution for more concurrent users are needed, please contact SAP for pricing.

If interested, you can contact SAP directly at: SAP - ADS Sales team

You will need to know the max number of users that would be connecting to the software concurrently (at the same time). As there are different price points based on the number of concurrent users needed.

 

4.1. Upgrading the Single User Edition from a previous edition

To upgrade your software, follow these instructions:

1. Find out what version you are currently using. To do this, run the program, then click on Help and select About... 

This will display a window with the version number listed.

2. Then download the upgraded software and install it, or just download and install the free download as listed on our web site. 

You can download the latest version from here: Star Bill of Lading SE

3. You will find the conversion program that needs to be run after the installation of the latest version has been installed. (If you are upgrading from version 6 or newer, you do not need to run the conversion utility. The conversion is automatic.) You can select this option by clicking on the Windows Start Button, scroll to and open the Star Bill of Lading  then select Convert data from older version. 

This will run a program that will allow you to select which version you are upgrading from. 

After you have selected which version to convert from, Click Convert. You will be prompted for the folders that contain your old data and where to place the converted data. 

Normally, leave the locations alone for the Single User Edition. This will tell the program to convert the data over to the latest version. If everything is correct, then click on the Convert button.

This will take your old data and load it into the latest version database. Then click on Exit.

4. After you have upgraded to the latest version, you may be prompted for a registration key. If so, just request a new key, and we will make sure you are valid on your support license. If you are, then we will send you a new set of keys. Just key them into each workstation. If you are Not current with your support license, then you willneed to purchase the Upgrade to obtain the new codes.

WARNING:
One think we must mention, is if you have any data already in the latest version, this will be lost during the conversion, as the data from the previous version will overwrite everything in the latest version. We just need to mention this in case you have any data already in the latest version.

4.2. Upgrading the Network Edition from a previous version.

Below are the instructions to upgrade/update the Star Bill of Lading software from a previous version.

To upgrade your software, please follow these instructions:

Before you do anything, please make sure you have a current backup of your Bill of Lading database.  We always want to be on the safe side, and as a side note, before you update any software, be sure to have a backup copy of the database just in case.

Here are the instructions to perform a backup of your database if you do not know how.

How to Backup your Star Bill of Lading Database

After you have successfully created a backup your database, we can proceed.

Do you know what version of the software is currently on your system?  Let's find out by following the instructions below.

Find out what the original version you are using. To do this, run the original program, then click on the Help menu on top of the screen, then click on About...

This will display a window with the version number listed.

Now you know the version you are upgrading from. 

Then download the latest version of the Star Bill of Lading Network Edition software and install it on all of the workstations that have the Star Bill of Lading Network Edition software. 
Do not run the software on any of the workstations yet.

Star Bill of Lading NE Download - Select NE version...

When you have finished installing the software on all the workstations, refer back to the version you were upgrading from. 

If you were upgrading/updating from any version from v6.xx and Above, then you can run the software from one of the workstations to perform any conversion process that needs to take place and you are finished.

 

---

If you were upgrading/updating from version 4.xx of 5.xx then continue with the instructions below, as you will need to perform the conversion process manually.

REMEMBER — The following is only if you were running version 4.xx or 5.xx.

If you are converting the Network Version, you will need to perform a few steps to accomplish the actual data conversion.

You need to know where the old data resides for the previous version. We would assume it is somewhere on your network. If you are upgrading from version 4, or newer, run the Network Workstation Configuration Setup Utility from the previous version. It should be listed under the Windows Menu system under Star Bill of Lading (X), Utilities. 

This will tell you where the data for version (X) resides on your network. You will see one of the following screens depending on the version you are currently using.

OR

You will find the conversion programs that needs to be run after the installation of the latest version has also been installed.  You can select this option by clicking on the Windows Start Button, then Programs, Star Bill of Lading (X), Utilities, and then Convert Data from previous version. 

This will run a program that will allow you to select which version you are upgrading from.  

You will be prompted for the folders that contain your old data and where to place the converted data.  
Be sure to select the folder that contains the old data.  And, normally just leave the to location alone. This will tell the program to convert the data over to the local workstation. It is optimal to do this before installing the upgrade on the other workstations.

If everything is correct, then just click on the Convert button. This will take your old data and load it into the latest version database. Then click on Exit. You are done with this step.

4. If everything went smoothly, then you should have a duplicate copy of the database on your local workstation under C:\Document and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (Windows XP or earlier) OR C:\Program Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Windows Vista, 7, 8 or 10).

You can run the software and verify everything is working correctly. Then you will need to copy this data folder over to a place on your server, shared workstation, or wherever you plan on sharing this information on your network.

5. Then run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility to point the current workstation to the new data location. Afterwards, be sure to test to be sure the current workstation is running and accessing the data. If this is correct, then we can proceed to the other workstations.

6. Download and install the latest version of the software on each workstation. Run the Network Workstation Configuration Setup Utility on each workstation to point to the new data location. They should be up and running and accessing the new data.

7. After you have upgraded to the latest version, you may be prompted for a registration key. If so, just request a new key, and we will make sure you are valid on your support license. If you are, then we will send you a new set of keys. Key them into each workstation. That is about all there is.

WARNING:
One thing we must mention, if you have any data already in the latest version, this will be lost during the conversion, as the data from the previous version will overwrite everything in the latest version. We just need to mention this in case you have any data already in the latest version.

 

 

4.3. Upgrading to the Network Edition from the Single Edition

To set up the Network Version Upgrade of this software, you must
follow these instructions.

1.) Backup your Current Version of the Star Bill of Lading Data (See Below for Instructions)

2.) Install the Star Bill of Lading Network Edition program onto your workstation. And with any other workstations that will be running the software. (See Below for Instructions)
 
3.) If you installed it to the default folder, then there will be a folder called:

• Windows XP or earlier - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data 
• Windows Vista, 7, 8 or 10 - C:\Program Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data 

4.) Next check to see if the program runs on all of the workstations you installed the software to. If everything works, then you are ready to proceed. (Do not worry about the data yet. This will be setup later.)

5.) Copy the data files to your server. To perform this, all you need to do is to copy the original workstations \data folder over to a drive on your network. (Make sure you use the workstation your original data resides on.)  Such as M:\BOL Data. Be sure to create the folder on your server first. Be sure that wherever you copy the data files to, that you change the permissions to access the data folder and files you created to give full read/write access to these files for everyone that would have access to them.

6.) Now you need to setup your workstation(s) to point to the folder on the server that you just created and loaded with the data files. You need to run the utility called Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. This will handle the setup process for you. This program was installed during the installation process and can be run by clicking on the Windows Start button, then use the Star Bill of Lading drop down and select Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. 

This will display the Current Location of the data files. To configure the data pointer, you need to click on the Set Location button. 

To configure the data pointer, you need to click on the Set Location button. This will show you a layout of your folders and network drives. Select the Server/Workstation that you copied the original data files to: our example F:\BOL Data.

Then click OK. If you did this correctly, and the files reside in this folder, you will be notified. Then click Post. Your system should be setup correctly.

Perform the same task on each of the other workstations you have installed the software on, and the installation process is completed.

4.4. How can I see if there is an update available?

At anytime, you can check to see if there are any Updates/Upgrades available for this product.

If you are running a version older that 9.46, from the main screen, click on Help, then Check for Updates.

If you have version 9.46 or newer running, you will see the New Version button.
Click the New Version button.

If you click New Version, it will take you to our web site to explain your next options.

Please read carefully.

When you click on the Portal Link, it will take you to the Download Portal Login screen.

Here you will fill in your registration information, then click Login.

After you are authenticated, you will be displayed your options to download. Here you can download the latest version you are eligible for along with other options.

Then just download and install.

After you download and run the installer, a window will appear where you are to begin the installation process.

Our example is for the Single User Edition. The Network Edition looks similar.

Follow the prompts and select the defaults and you should be good to go and the new version will be installed.

If you are not authenticated, this usually means you are expired from Support Maintenance, you will be taken to a web page to purchase the upgrade if available.  

If you have any questions, or need your registration codes to login, please contact our Support Team using our Help Desk.

5.1. System/Shipper Setup Properties

The initial setup of this system is not very difficult, but it is very important to spend a little time to understand everything that is required to properly setup the system for normal use.  Failure to set this up properly can cause problems that can cause extra work to correct the problems.  Here are the basics to correctly setting up the system.

After installation of the program, run the BOL program.  

The first area you want to set up is the Shipper information. This is done by selecting the menu option Setup, then click on System/Shipper Setup Properties. Pressing F4 (Function 4 key) works too. 

This will display the Control Setup/Shipper Selection screen. Here are the fields that are displayed on this screen with a short description of their meanings and uses.  These need to be filled in with your pertinent information.



Shipper:
This is the name of the Shipper who is processing the shipments.

Address:
Shippers permanent address lines 1,2,3.

Phone/Fax
Phone number and Fax number of the Shipper.  These fields are optional.  They are printed on the BOL on the bottom left hand corner of the form only if entered.

E-mail
This is an optional field that will print on the bottom left hand corner of the BOL if entered.

Emer. Contact/24 Hour Number
This is the Emergency Contact Name.  Here you would put in the name or company that is responsible if there is an emergency during the shipment.  This is mainly used for the transportation of Hazardous material and is required for this type of shipment. If using the Canadian Option, it will display 24 Hour Number for the heading as this is what is used for the Canadian bills.

Emergency #
Emergency Phone number.  This is where you enter the Emergency Phone number that is to be called in case of an Emergency situation.  This is mainly used for the transportation of Hazardous material and is required for this type of shipment.

Registered Company
This is a default value for the Shipper, and will be loaded to all New BOL's if Entered.

Dft. Carrier.
This is a default value for Carrier.  If a value is entered here, then it will be used when creating new Bills.  This field also contains a lookup feature to load a Carrier that is already in the system.  You can access this drop down selection by either clicking on the eclipse to the right of the field, or pressing the F2 key while the cursor control is in the field. 

Dft. Route.
This is a default value for Route.  If a value is entered here, then it will be used when creating new Bills.  The name on this field can change if you updated the Field Settings section of the Setup Options screen.  Then it will reflect those changes.  Otherwise the default is for the Route field. 

Dft. Special Instructions.
This is a default value for Special Instructions.  If a value is entered here, then it will be used when creating new Bills.  This field also contains a lookup feature to load a Special Instruction that is already in the system.  You can access this drop down selection by either clicking on the eclipse to the right of the field, or pressing the F2 key while the cursor control is in the field.  The name on this field can change if you updated the Field Settings section of the Setup Options screen.  Then it will reflect those changes.  Otherwise the default is for the Special Instructions field

Dft. Message
If you enter a Message here, it will print on every Bill of Lading.

Modifiable BOL#
This check field is used to change the way the system handles the creation of the Bill of Lading numbers.  If you check this field, then each Bill that is created, you will be prompted to enter a BOL number.  Each one of these must be unique for each shipper in the system.  If you are using the system wide BOL number option then this number must be unique for the system.  If it is unchecked, then the system will automatically create the BOL numbers for each shipper.  If you are using the system wide BOL number option, then this number will be will be automatically created for the system sequentially.

Dft. Declared Value
This is the default declared value for the items being shipped. (ex. 2.00 - for $2.00 per)

Per
This is the default declared value per for the items being shipped (ex. LBS)

This is where you need to figure out a few things.  

Last BOL#
This field is used to display and keep track of the Bill of Lading numbers.  For system setup you can enter any number to start with.  This number will change with each BOL created.  Do not change this after initial setup unless necessary.

# of Copies
This is the default number of copies of the Bill of Lading that will print on each print command.  This can be between 1 and 6.  

Label Printer & Type
The type of shipping labels and printer that is used to print them.  Here is a short description of the different labels used in this program.

Laser Printer labels:
  Avery type 5168 labels:  4 to a page
  Avery type 5163 labels:  10 to a page
  Avery type 5164 labels:  6 to a page
  Avery type 5165 labels:  1 to a page - 11" x 8 1/2"
  Avery type 5526 labels:  2 to a page
  Bar Code Type Thermal Printer Labels:  6" x 4" labels
  Bar Code Type Thermal Printer Labels:  3" x 4" labels

For more information about processing the Shipping Labels see the Shipping Label Processing.

Dft. Prepaid/Coll.3rd
This is the system default that defines new BOL's as whether they are to be set up as Prepaid, Collect of 3rd Party billing options.  This can be changed on each BOL, as this is only a default.  You can also setup each Consignee/Customer with their own default setting which will override this setting when you select the Consignee during entry of the BOL.

Printed Weight Description
This field is used to select the Printed Weight Description on the Bills.  You have an option of either LBS, KG or Blank.

Default Bill to Address Button  
This is an optional field that will allow you to enter a default Bill to Name and Address.  This will print on each BOL if entered.  This is very useful if all of your bills are 3rd Party or if you require payment to be sent to a different address.

Default Section 7 Signature Name
This is an optional field that if filled in will Auto Sign the Section 7 Signature section of the BOL with the Name you enter into this field.

Copy 1 Caption
This is the caption that is printed on the top of the Bill of Lading - this will print on Copy 1

Copy 2 Caption
This is the caption that is printed on the top of the Bill of Lading - this will print on Copy 2

Copy 3 Caption
This is the caption that is printed on the top of the Bill of Lading - this will print on Copy 3

Copy 4 Caption
This is the caption that is printed on the top of the Bill of Lading - this will print on Copy 4

Copy 5 Caption
This is the caption that is printed on the top of the Bill of Lading - this will print on Copy 5

Copy 6 Caption
This is the caption that is printed on the top of the Bill of Lading - this will print on Copy 6

Logo
This is the shipper logo that can be used if you desire one.  This will print on each BOL on the right side of the BOL next to the Shipper information.  You can load a logo into the system by using your mouse.  Just right click on the logo area, you will be displayed a menu.  To load a logo, just click on Load.  This will prompt you to load a logo file.  You can use any Bitmap file and it will be saved into the system for the selected shipper and will print on all BOL's for this shipper.  If you would like to delete a logo, just follow the same selection, but select delete instead of load.  

Shipper #
Each Shipper that is entered into the system needs to be assigned a shipper number.  This is an alpha-numeric field that can contain just about any code.  The system is setup and installed with 10 predefined shipper records, they range from 01 - 10.  These do not need to be changed unless you feel it necessary.  If you create a new record, you will have to key in a code for each one you create.  You will be prompted if you forget to enter a code.

Default Shipper
If you click on the check mark, it will define the selected Shipper as the Default Shipper.  What this means is the selected shipper will be loaded as the shipper each time you start the program.

To ADD a new Shipper, click on the + sign at the bottom left hand of the screen.  This will add a new Shipper record that you will need to fill out the information in.

Setup Options
This button should also be clicked on to setup other options when you first install.  For more information about this just check out the Custom Options Setup Screen

Shipper Selection Grid
The grid that is displayed at the top of this screen can be used to select a specific Shipper by double-clicking on the selected shipper.  You can also sort the Shipper records by clicking on the grid headers to sort the records by either Name, Address, or Shipper number.

After initial setup, you can start loading your default files for use.  This would include your Consignee's/Customers, Carriers, Descriptions/Items, etc.

5.2. Displayed/Options Field - Display Settings

This screen allows you to remove or display certain fields on the main screen. Helpful if you never use these fields. You can also change the number that prints as the BOL#. This is useful if you do not want to use the system generated number as you BOL#. All of these options can be changed, which will allow for a more customized version of the software. They also will not be displayed on the BOL printout.


Here is a list of the optional fields that can be displayed or turned off under the Display Settings tab.

Display PRO Number

Display SCAC Code

Display Carrier Number

Display Trailer Number

Display Seal Number      Display Dept

Display COD Information

Display on Main screen - Registered Company

Display Placards Req.

Enable Section 7 Signature Entry

Display Freight Charges

Display UM - Detail Unit of Measure

Use 2 Unit of Measure and Quantity fields

Use Unit Weight to Calculate Weight field - Detail

Use Hazardous Material Check Mark

Display NMFC - Detail      Display Lot #'s Detail

Display Pkg Field - Detail

Display Detail Charges

Display Consignee/Deliver to Contacts/Phones

Display Return BOL Option

Display Email BOL Button - If you do not wish to email a bol file, then un-check this option and the button will not be displayed.

Display Print 2 PDF Button - If you do not wish to print to a PDF file, then un-check this option and the button will not be displayed. You can still print to PDF by selecting the menu option during a print.

PDF - Create full # of copies   PDF - Open PDF after saving

Auto Capitalize Desc/Items - This allows you to turn on or off the Capitalization of the Description of Articles/Items descriptions.

Auto Print Terms and Conditions - This will automatically print the Terms and Conditions report after each BOL is printed.

Print Detail Line Separator with each BOL - This will print a line in between each detail line items.  This can be turned on or off.

BOLD QTY Detail field on BOL Printout. - This will turn the BOLD characteristic for the Detail QTY field on during printing of the bills.

BOLD QTY Total field on BOL Printout. - This will turn the BOLD characteristic for the Total QTY field on during printing of the bills.

BOLD WEIGHT Detail field on BOL Printout. - This will turn the BOLD characteristic for the Detail WEIGHT field on during printing of the bills.

BOLD WEIGHT Total field on BOL Printout. - This will turn the BOLD characteristic for the Total WEIGHT field on during printing of the bills.

Display Carrier Name on Labels - On certain shipping labels, it will display the Carrier's name on the label.

Display Piece Counts on Labels - On certain shipping labels, it will display the label piece counts. (ie - 1 of 4) etc.

Display Skid Counts on 5165 Labels - This will allow the printing of Skid counts when printing to the 5165 labels.

Print PRO# on Labels - On certain shipping labels, it will print the PRO# on the label. 

Print PRO#  Bar Code on Labels

Print From Address on Shipping Labels

Auto Print 4x3 Labels during Batch Print

Print Batch Labels using # of Detail Lines

Print Our Order# on Shipping labels/Not Cust. Order#

Do NOT print any Order Numbers on Shipping Labels

Print SCAC and BOL# Bar Codes on Bill - No Logo - This will print the barcodes on the Bill for the SCAC and BOL#'s, but will remove the logo if you are using one.

Print PRO# Bar Codes on Bill - No Logo/BOL#

Print Carrier # Bar Codes on Bill

All changes will take effect after exiting the program and restarting.

5.3. Displayed/Options Field - Field Settings

This area is used to customize some of the fields used in this program. You can change the way each of these fields are named and displayed on the screens along with the printed BOL. This saves many modifications that were requested, so we passed the process to the user. You can reset them back to the defaults by clicking on the Edit menu, the click on the Reset feature.

Here are options for the Custom Field Names that can be changed under the Field Settings tab. 

All changes will take effect after exiting the program and restarting.

5.4. Displayed/Options Field - System Settings

To access the System Settings tab click Setup then Displayed/Options Fields

Here is a list of the optional fields that can be displayed or turned off under the System Settings tab.

Special System Wide Settings:

All changes will take effect after exiting the program and restarting.

5.5. Displayed/Options Field - Mandatory Fields

To access the Mandatory Fields tab click Setup then Displayed/Options Fields.

Here is a list of the Mandatory fields that can be turned on or off under the Mandatory Fields tab

All changes will take effect after exiting the program and restarting.

5.6. Importing Data

This system allows you to import data into the following files:  Consignee, Consignee Ship To's, Item/Description, Carriers, and BOL Import data.  You can import data using the following data file types as listed on the following screen.

To perform the actual importing we have provided an import wizard that will step you through the process of importing your data.  To run the wizard, run the program, click on the File menu, Import/Export, Import, then select the file you wish to import.

We have provided detailed instructions to import each of the different files below.

Importing Carriers

Importing Consignees

Importing Items/Descriptions

Importing BOL Import data

Click on the link above to view the detailed instructions.

 

5.7. Importing Carriers

You can import your own data into the program to load the Carrier file with data. 

Here is the file layout that is used in the software:

These are the fields that are to be populated during the import.  If you do not have all this information, that is OK, as the only field that is required is the Carrier's Name.

We have provided instructions on the process below on how to import an Excel file containing data into the program.

Run the Import for the Carrier File.

This is the first screen you will see:

 

You need to select the file type you will be importing from.

For this example, we are using an Excel file.

After selecting the file type, click on the Next button to continue.

This will display the file selection screen in the wizard.  

You can either key in the location and file name, or click on the ellipses to browse your system for it and select. The program will fill in the location for you.

Then click the Next button.

This will display the next screen in the wizard. 

You can ignore this screen. Click on the Next button.

This will display the field mapping selection screen stage 1.

On this screen, you need to click on the Heading of the row which is displaying the contents of your import file.  Then select the associated field in the software to map the data to go to.  Each field that you are importing needs to be selected.  You can scroll to the right to select the other fields.  After all fields are selected, click on the Next button to continue.

The next screen is a recap of the mapping selections you made on the previous screen.  You can change the selections on this screen if you need to, or you can click the back screen button to reselect.  If everything is OK, then just click the next button to continue.

The next screen will display your data and where it is going as a preview of what will be imported.  If everything is OK, click the Next button.  If not, you can click the Back button and change settings until correct.

On this screen you will choose whether to Append (add to the file) or Copy (replace the contents) the data into the file.  After selecting, click the Execute button to run the Import.

After the import is completed, you should be returned to the program and your data should be imported.

 

5.8. Importing Consignees

Importing Consignees

If you have a database with information already entered into it, you may be able to import the data into this program.

Here is a layout of the Consignee file for your reference.

You can import the following types of data: Text, Excel, Lotus 123, Quattro Pro, Paradox files, DBase files, MS Access, and XML files. Run the program. Click File, Import/Export, Import then select Consignees. 

This will open the Import Wizard dialog screen. For our example, we are going to import an Excel file.

After you select the file type, click Next.

This screen is where you need to select where your file is located on your computer that you wish to import.
Use the drop down box to navigate to the file location.
When you have made your selection, click Next.

 

This screen is for Data Format options. For our example & most users, this can be ignored. Click Next.

This will bring up the File preview screen. This is what your data looks like before we map the fields in the program. Make note of what columns your data is in.

Click Next.

This brings up the Mappings dialog screen. This is where you select what fileds from your Excel file and assign them to the appropriate Destination.

 

Use the drop down to select which column from your Excel file you wish to put in each destination.
For example, for BConsigned (Destination), you would select A if your Consignee name is in column A on your Excel spreadsheet (Source).
And so on. Once you have made all of the desired selections, click Next
Note: You do not have to import all of the fields that may be on your Excel Spreadsheet. The wizard will only import those fields that you have selected.

This screen allows you to Preview your mapped fields. If it looks like your data is in the fields you wish them to be in, then click Next.
If there are fields out of place or missing, select Back and make changes.
After you have clicked next, you will be presented with the Summary dialog screen.

Here is where you would select the Import Mode.

You will either select Append to add records to the database OR Copy, which will replace the data that exists with what you are importing.

After you have made your selection, click Execute.

When importing has completed, you will be returned to the program. You can verify that your information has been imported by clicking on Maintenance and the selecting whatever it is you imported.

5.9. Importing Descriptions/Items file

Importing Description/Items file.

If you have a database with information already entered into it, you may be able to import the data into this program.

Here is a layout of the Description/Items file for your reference.

You can import the following types of data: Text, Excel, DBase files, MS Access, and XML files. Run the program. Click File, Import/Export, Import then select Descriptions.

Or, you can select the import from the Description file maintenance screen off the Maintenance menu, then Descriptions/Items as shown here.

This will open the Import Wizard dialog screen. For our example, we are going to import an Excel file.

After you select the file type, click Next.

 

This screen is where you need to select where your file is located on your computer that you wish to import.
Use the drop down box to navigate to the file location.
When you have made your selection, click Next.

This screen is for Data Format options. For our example & most users, this can be ignored. Click Next.

This will bring up the File preview screen. This is what your data looks like before we map the fields in the program. Make note of what columns your data is in.

Click Next.

 

This brings up the Mappings dialog screen. This is where you select what fileds from your Excel file and assign them to the appropriate Destination.

 

Use the drop down to select which column from your Excel file you wish to put in each destination.
For example, for BConsigned (Destination), you would select A if your Consignee name is in column A on your Excel spreadsheet (Source).
And so on. Once you have made all of the desired selections, click Next
Note: You do not have to import all of the fileds that may be on your Excel Spreadsheet. The wizard will only import those fields that you have selected.

 

This screen allows you to Preview your mapped fields. If it looks like your data is in the fields you wish them to be in, then click Next.
If there are fields out of place or missing, select Back and make changes.
After you have clicked next, you will be presented with the Summary dialog screen.

 

Here is where you would select the Import Mode.

You will either select Append to add records to the database OR Copy, which will replace the data that exists with what you are importing.

After you have made your selection, click Execute.

 

When importing has completed, you will be returned to the program. You can verify that your information has been imported by clicking on Maintenance and the selecting whatever it is you imported.

5.10. Concatenating City, State, and Zip fields while importing Consignees

To concatenate the fields using the import wizard you need to use this during
the import option.  Run the Import option, then during the mapping portion, 
you need to key in the following into the mapping Source associated to the 
proper address field.

(C + ", " + D + "  " + E)

Where C = City
Where D = State
Where E = Zip

This is based on the assumption that you are using an Excel spreadsheet to 
import.  Other file types are done the same way.

Here is the Expression builder in the import process.

This is what the Mapping screen looks like after you build the import expression.

Click Next. You will see the Data preview screen. Click Next.

Select your Import mode and then Execute. 

You should be taken back to the main screen.

 

5.11. Importing Sales Order information to create the BOL Import data file.

Import Instructions and Layout for BOL Import File

There is a feature in the Star Bill of Lading program that will allow you to create an import file that will be used to create and populate the bills in the program.  We call it the BOL Import file, which when setup and populated, can be used to create actual bills based on a sales orders from another system.  

This may be a bit technical, for most users to accomplish, but if you have access to sales order information from another system and can manipulate the data, it can be imported directly into the bill of lading program files to be processed into actual bill of lading records.

First let us explain what is needed.  You will need to create an export of data from your existing sales order information.  This would then be imported into our BOL import file.  After this is completed, the user would create new bills by pressing a function key (F6) that will pop up a window asking for the Sales Order number.  The user keys in the sales order number and if the data resides in the import file, it will create a new bill based on this information.  That is all there is to it.  You will need to populate this import file on a daily, or schedule of your choice so the information stays current.

Lets start by giving you the layout of the import file that you need to send the data to.  Here is the file layout for importing data into the BOL Import file.

 

Here is an example of the type of file you need to create.  We have included some screen shots of an excel file with some test data.

 

When creating an import file to be imported into the system, the easiest way is to create an Excel spreadsheet.  The layout would be identical to the above layout using columns for the data.  One important statement is that each detail line that will be created in the BOL based on the import, needs to have a separate row or record.  Also there must be a Sales Order Number assigned to each record set in the import file.  The system reads through the records and creates the BOL based on the Sales Order Number.  Each detail record must contain the same Sales Order number as this is the key to the file.

To run the actual import from your file to the BOL system, just run the program.  Click on the File menu, then Import/Export, Import, BOL Import file load.  This will run the import wizard which will be used to map the data from your file into the BOL import file.  Just follow the directions in the wizard to actually import the data.  On the last step, always make sure you replace the data in the import file with the new data.  Unless you are only performing updates.

In the program, you also need to turn the option on that will allow the user to create the new bills with the data you provided.  To do this, just run the program, click on the Setup menu, then Displayed Options fields.  Then click on the System Settings tab.  There is a check mark field that states - Allow Sales Order file import and selection/load.  This will turn the feature on.  Then, when the user wants to create a new bill using data from this file, the user just needs to be on the main screen and press the F6 key.  This will bring up the Sales Order Number entry screen.  Just key in an existing Sales Order Number and the program will populate the new bill with the data provided in the import file.  There is also an option after the import to create all BOL's from the imported records.  This will create all the bills that were loaded into the import all at once.  The choice is up to you.

Here is a picture of the Sales Order Entry screen.

If you have any specific questions regarding this process, you can always contact our Support department via our web site.

Here is a link to download import file layout the import file fields.

bolimportlayout.zip

Here is a link to download an example of an actual excel spreadsheet with headers and test data for importing.

BOLImportFileExampleWHEADERS.zip

 

5.12. Exporting Consignee Records

This section will explain how to export your database records from the Consignee file to an excel worksheet.

To perform this task from the main screen, click on the Maintenance menu, then Consignees.

This will display the Consignee Maintenance screen.  Click on the Import/Export menu as shown.

This will start the Export Wizard.  Be sure to select the Excel Spreadsheet option as shown. Then click on the Next Button.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, be sure all the fields are checked.  If not, please check them all to include all the information in the file to be exported.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, you can select where you would like to save the exported file to and also you can name it here.  Then click on the Execute button.

That is all there is to it.  You should have now created a new Excel Worksheet with all your Consignees.

5.13. Exporting Descriptions/Items Records

This section will explain how to export your database records from the Descriptions/Items file to an excel worksheet.

To perform this task from the main screen, click on the Maintenance menu, then Descriptions/Items.

This will display the Descriptions/Items Maintenance screen.  Click on the Import/Export menu as shown.

This will start the Export Wizard.  Be sure to select the Excel Spreadsheet option as shown. Then click on the Next Button.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, be sure all the fields are checked.  If not, please check them all to include all the information in the file to be exported.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, just click Next.

When the following screen is displayed, you can select where you would like to save the exported file to and also you can name it here.  Then click on the Execute button.

That is all there is to it.  You should have now created a new Excel Worksheet with all your Descriptions/Items.

5.14. Email System Setup Instructions

To set up the Star Bill of Lading System to send bills via email you must perform the following setup first.

From the Main screen, click on the Menu - Setup, then Displayed Options/Fields.
This will display the different setup options available. Be sure to put a check mark in the box that states - Display Email BOL Button. Then close this screen.

From the Main screen, click on the Menu - Setup, then Email System Setup. This will display the Email Configuration Setup screen. 

You need to fill in the fields displayed on the screen with your information. Here are the fields.

From Name: - This is your name or Company name as it will be listed in the email.

From Email Address: This is your email address, or Company email address.

Email Reply-To Email Address: This is the email address you want recipients to reply to if they wish to do so.

Email Account User Name: This is the email account User Name. This you should have received from your ISP.

Account Password: This is the password associated with your User Name assigned to you by your ISP.

SMTP Address: This is your SMTP server address from your ISP - such as mail.yourdomain.com. This is also assigned from your ISP.

Port: This is the Port to use to send emails from your ISP - such as 25. This is also assigned from your ISP..

Email Tracking Subject: This field will be used as the Subject field of the email that is to be sent to the Consignee.

Email Tracking Message Part 1: This memo field will be used as the first part of the email message that is to be sent to the Consignee. You can use this field in combination with the other options to create a customized email message to be sent.

Email Tracking Message Part 2: This memo field will be used as the second part of the email message that is to be sent to the Consignee. We broke this up into two parts to allow you to further customize the email message. This will be included in the email message after the Customer Order Number and Email Tracking link of the shipment if used.

Show Customer Order #: This will include the Customer Order Number on the email being sent to the Consignee if chosen. Now, you may have changed the actual naming of this field in the setup, such as PO#, or something that you preferred, but it will include this value in the email message body if selected.

Show Web Tracking: If selected, this will include the Web Tracking address in the email to to be sent to the Consignee if chosen. This will be created using the Email Tracking Link Setup that is assigned to the Carrier selected to make the Shipment. If the selected Carrier does not have a web site to track the shipment with, it will not be displayed in the email sent to the Consignee. See the Carrier Setup screen to see how this is generated. 

After filling out this information, this will unlock the system to allow you to send the bills via email. The emails are sent after you click the Print button to print. Then you can modify the System Setup Options to display the email button.
When you want to send the bill via email, just click print for the BOL, then press the Email button. You will be prompted for the email address to send it to. That is about all there is to it.

If your ISP does not allow you to send out emails directly from programs outside of email programs then you can use the following option:
We have added another email option that will allow you to send the emails via a MAPI enabled email client such as Outlook Express. To use this option, setup the email system as described above, then click on the Setup menu, then Displayed/Options Fields. This will display the different options available in the system. Click on the third tab - Systems Settings. There is an option that states - Use MAPI email instead of BOL system default? Just check this option and the program will call your default email program to send email instead of this systems default one.

Then, to email a bill, just select the bill just as you would print it, click on the Print button, a screen will display to select the print options. There will be a Email BOL button displayed that you would click on to activate the email feature.
If you are using the system default, then it will ask for the email address to send it to. If you are using the MAPI email feature, it will call your email program, attach the BOL to the email and you would then enter the email address, just as you would any other emails.

6.1. Database Lookup Filtering and Selection Process

When the lookup is activated, you will be displayed the lookup screen with the available values to load into the field you are in. The cursor or focus is placed in the associated calling field as displayed below. You can start keying in a value to lookup or filter.



As you key in a value, the number of records in the displayed grid is reduced based on the value you key in. When you see the value you want to select, you can quickly press the down arrow key to highlight it, then press Enter to select it.  If there is only one record displayed, then just press Enter to select it.  Or, you can use your mouse to dbl-click on the record to select it.  Whichever way works best for you.

During the filter process, you can use wildcards to find values that are within the column fields. What this means is if you are looking for a Consignee and you cannot remember exactly what the name is, but you know it has the value of FARM somewhere in the name, you can use the wildcard (*) which is an asterisk and key it into the filter bar field, then follow it with the value of FARM. This will filter all the records and display any of them that contain the word/characters FARM. Then you can select based on the records shown.

You can also use multiple wildcards if there are multiple filter fields/columns available. Key in multiple wildcards as displayed below.

To quickly reset and clear out the filter entries because you entered the incorrect filter values, press the Esc (Escape Key) and it will clear out what you have already keyed in. Or you can use the menu option Edit, then Clear Filter.



After you have selected the value to be loaded to the original field, the lookup screen will disappear and the value will be loaded.



There are multiple lookup fields throughout the application that you can perform searches to make keying in values much faster. They all will contain the aforementioned ellipsis box to the right of the field. Below is a markup of the available fields on the main screen. If your screen does not match exactly the number of available fields, that is because you do not have all the database lookup files activated. These can be found under the Setup Menu, Displayed/Options Fields, and then the Field Settings. There you can turn on the Database lookups for the different available fields.



Here is where you can turn these lookup fields on or off by placing a check mark in the appropriate row.

6.2. Custom Reports

This section will explain how to use the Custom Reports section of the program.

This section is available as an add in to the program.  It is available via our web site at: http://www.starbol.com

To access this section in the program, you just need to select the Reports menu from the main screen, then select the menu options Custom Reports. 
This menu option will only be displayed and accessible if you have purchased and installed the Custom Reports Module. 

This will display the following screen.

There are multiple options you can select from this screen to start with.

The menu options at the top of the screen can be used and contain the following commands.

File Menu:

Open

New

Design

Print

Print Preview

Delete

Rename

Close

These options are used to create a new Folder, or Report and proceed from there.

You can also use the right click option on your mouse to bring up these options on the screen.

To start, click on the File menu, then click on the New option, then select Folder.  

This will allow you to create a new folder in the system to store your custom reports in. You can name it anything you wish, use something that makes sense to you.
We will call our example Report 1.

Then select that folder and click on the File menu again or right click, whichever you prefer and select New Report.

This will bring up the Report Designer as displayed.

There are three tabs on the top of the screen.  Data, Design, and Preview. 

You begin by selecting the Data tab.  This is where you would select the data that is to be used in the report.  You just click on the tab for Data.  You will be displayed a blank screen unless you already created the data specs. Here you would just click on the File menu, then New.  This will display the New Items.  Just click on the Query Wizard then click on OK, to begin the data selection process.

After selecting the Query Wizard, you will be displayed this screen to select the table to be used..

Here is a list of the available tables to be used..

BOLD - Bill of Lading Detail file.

BOLH - Bill of Lading Header file.

CARR - Carrier file

CLAS - Classifications file

CONS - Consignee file

CTRL - Control/Shipper file.

DELT - Deliver to file

DESC - Descriptions/Items file

All the other files listed are really not available for reporting, but are in the database and won't mean anything to the end user.

To select a file, just dbl-click on it or highlight it and click on the > arrow button to load into the selected tables section.

For example, select the CONS file.

Then click on the Next button.

There are other options to allow for customizing things, but you can just continue until you get to the Order screen.  This will allow you to select the order the file will be presented or sorted.  Just click on the Set Order and select a field such as the Consignee Name and click Continue.

You will then be displayed the finished screen.  Just click the Finish button.

You will be brought back to the Designer screen.

You have now selected a table to be used in creating the report.

From here just click on the Design Tab and you will be displayed the report designer.

You have different areas that you can perform functions with.

Report Tree - This shows the different sections of the report

Report Bands - This shows the different bands in creating the report layout.

Selection Properties - This shows the available properties for the selected item.

Available Table Fields - These are the available table fields to place on the report.

You can select a table field and place or drag right from the Available Table fields.  When you select a field and drag it to the Detail band, it will automatically select the field to be printed along with a header or text field to describe it.  You can change the header field or just delete it if not needed by selecting it and pressing the delete key.  To change it just change the text in the text selection field as shown.

After adding fields and whatever you wish to change, you can click on the Preview button to see the results of the report.

If all is well, then click on the File menu on the Design Tab and select Save. This will prompt you for a name to save the report as.

After you save it, close the Design screen and it will be displayed on the Report Explorer screen.

You have created your first report.

You can select the report again and either print it, preview, go back again and edit it, delete it, etc.

You can create as many reports as you wish and organize them in the Report Explorer.

For more details, on usage, just contact our help desk located at http://help.starre.com

 

6.3. Custom Reports Example 2

Here is another example of an actual report you might like to create.

Say you want to create a report containing the following fields. Date, Consigned to, Carrier, Customer Order Number, Our Order Number, Pro# and the Total Pieces and Total Weight.

After you select the Custom Reports option you are displayed the following screen.  Select a New Report.

You begin by selecting the Data tab.  This is where you would select the data that is to be used in the report.  Click on the tab for Data.  

You will be displayed a blank screen unless you already created the data specs. 

Here you would click on the File menu, then New.  

This will display the New Items screen.  Click on the Query Wizard then click on OK, to begin the data selection process.

After selecting the Query Wizard, you will be displayed this screen to select the table to be used. Dbl-Click on the BOLH entry which is the Bill of Lading Header file.

This will tell the system to select the Bill of Lading Header file to be used in the report.

Click Next to select All Fields to be used.

Click Next as there are no calculations to make.

Click Next as there are no groupings to make.

If you want to choose a date range to only include as an example from 1/1/20 to current then you will need to define a search criteria.  Click on the Define Search Criteria and the screen will open to define it.

Right Click on the opened area to display the popup menu and select Insert Criteria.

Select the field BOLH.HDate, which is the date field in the file.  Select the >= operator which means Greater Than or Equal to.  And then enter the Date to start from and click OK.

You will now see the criteria that you want the report to select out the records and print. You can click Finish.

This screen is displayed showing the file that you are to use in the report.  This should be fine and click on the Design Tab at the top to show the report design screen.

You have different areas that you can perform functions with.

Report Tree - This shows the different sections of the report

Report Bands - This shows the different bands in creating the report layout.

Selection Properties - This shows the available properties for the selected item.

Available Table Fields - These are the available table fields to place on the report.

To start, lets add a Heading to the report.  Click on the A on the tool bar to create a Text field and place it on the Header Band. You can enter the actual text by placing the mouse on the field to the left of the Font selection and key in what you want it to read.

You can select a table field such as the Hdate field and place or drag right from the Available Table fields.  When you select a field and drag it to the Detail band, it will automatically select the field to be printed along with a header or text field to describe it.  You can change the header field or delete it if not needed by selecting it and pressing the delete key.  To change it just change the text in the text selection field as shown. 

This placed the Date field on the Detail band, and I deleted the first part on this one as I did not want the associated text to be displayed.  Only the Date field and moved it on the form to where I wanted it.

Now add the rest of the fields.  HConsignedto (Consignee Name), HCarriername (Carrier Name), HCustOrderNo (Customer Order Number), HOurOrderNo (Our Order Number), HPRO (Pro Number), HTotalPcs (Total Pieces) and HTotalWeight (Total Weight).  I left the headings on the Total Pieces and Total Weight and changed them to read Total Pieces: and Total Weight, because I wanted to.  They are not needed if you choose not to.  Adjust and arrange the fields on the Detail band however you wish, and if you need more room, you can drag and expand or shrink the detail band how you see fit. Of course you can also adjust the Font sizes and make more room and resize the field sizes too.

Add the rest of the Header fields to define what is going to be on the report below.  These are Text fields and arrange them as needed.  I have added a System Variable which is the Date field to also be printed on the Header of the report.  You can select the System Variable icon as shown and it will place the Date onto the band.

I also placed a line at the bottom of the Header band so it breaks up the report a little.  This is optional and is up to you

Review what you have created so far and when you think you have it, click on the Preview Tab to see what you have so far.

You can click back and forth on the Design and Preview tab until you get it to the point you like it.  Then click on the File menu then Save to save your design.

 

That's it, you just created a report. You can select it from the main screen and print it out, or preview, then print. You can also Dbl-Click on it to make more changes.  

6.4. Add/Maintain Carrier file

This screen is used to display/maintain the Carrier file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows: 

CARRIER'S NAME
This field is used to store the Carrier's Names.  This allows the ease of Entry when it comes to Entering the BOL.

Address Fields:
The address of your Carrier being used.

Phone
Phone number of the carrier.

Fax
Fax number of the carrier. (Currently not used).

SCAC
This is a default value for the Carrier, and will be loaded to the BOL if a value is entered.

Carrier#:
This is a default value for the Carrier, and will be loaded to the BOL if a value is entered.

Email
Email address of carrier. (Currently not used).

Web
Web site address of the carrier. (Currently not used).

Use Pro # Range
Select this check box if this Carrier has given you a range of Pro#'s to use.  This will tell the system to create a Pro# based on the Last Pro# field with 1 being added to the Last Pro# to create the Pro#.  This takes place if selected during the Print routine.  This will only happen on the first print, if you print multiple times, it will not create a new Pro#.

Last Pro #:
This is the tracking number used for the last Pro# generated for this Carrier.

Beg Range
This is the beginning range tracker used in creating Pro#'s for this Carrier 

End Range
This is the Ending range tracker used in creating Pro#'s for this Carrier.

Use MOD7 Pro# Check Digit:
This option will add a MOD7 Check digit to the generated Pro# if using the Pro# generation feature.  This will add the MOD7 check digit to the new Pro# when it is created during the print process and add the new Pro# to the created bill.

Use YRC Pro# Check Digit:
This option will add the Check Digit processing for YRC which uses a specific check digit creation process. This will add the YRC check digit to the new Pro# when it is created during the print process and add the new Pro# to the created bill.

E Tracking Link Button:
By clicking on this option, you will be presented with the Email Tracking Link creation screen.  Here you can define the Email Tracking link to be included with the emails that are sent to the Consignees.

Here is a screen shot of the Email Tracking Link Setup Screen.

All of the following parts of the Tracking Link Creation is defined by the Carrier you are using.  You should check with their I.T. Staff to determine their
actual usage, and if they have this capability via their website.

Tracking Link Part 1:
This field is used to define part one of the tracking link to the Carriers website.  If needed, there are options for up to 5 different parts that will be combined to create the link call for the website of the Carrier.  This will be combined with the PRO# to create the link.  For example, to create the proper link to FedEx Freight, the Tracking Link would be -> http://www.fedex.com/Tracking?&tracknumber_list=
This followed by the Pro#, will be used to generate the link.  This link if used, will be sent to the Consignee via email if selected to do so.

Tracking Link Part 2:
This field is used to define part two of the tracking link to the Carriers website.  This is used in combination with Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part5, and the Pro# to create the Tracking link to the Carriers website tracking page.

Tracking Link Part 3:
This field is used to define part three of the tracking link to the Carriers website.  This is used in combination with Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part5, and the Pro# to create the Tracking link to the Carriers website tracking page. 

Tracking Link Part 4:
This field is used to define part four of the tracking link to the Carriers website.  This is used in combination with Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part5, and the Pro# to create the Tracking link to the Carriers website tracking page.

Tracking Link Part 5:
This field is used to define part five of the tracking link to the Carriers website.  This is used in combination with Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part5, and the Pro# to create the Tracking link to the Carriers website tracking page.

Position Pro# After Part#:
This selection is used to define where in combination of the Tacking Link Parts where the Pro# is to be placed to create the Tracking Link.

Strip Dashes from Pro#:
This selection is used to define whether or not to Strip any Dashes that reside in the Pro# before creating the Tracking Link.  This would be defined by the Carrier.

Edit Menu
Remove all records in Carrier file. - This option will remove all the current records that reside in the Carrier file.  As you will notice, we have initially loaded the Carrier file with data.  If you prefer to clear the file and add your own, this is a quick way to remove all the records that are loaded into the system.  (This can only be performed if you are the only user logged into the system. - Network Version only) 

Import/Export Data
There is also an option to Import/Export data to/from an outside file.  This option is off the menu and will allow you to import/export data into/from this database file.

Just click on the option to import and follow the instructions.

See the Import/Export area for more information about this feature, along with the different file types that are supported.

6.5. Add/Maintain Consignee records

To add/edit/delete Consignees in the program, you can select Maintenance, then select Consignee's/Customers. 

This will display the Consignment Maintenance screen.  As listed below.

This screen is used to display/maintain the Consigned to/Customer file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign. It is all very simple and self explanatory.

There is also a Filter Bar at the top of the grid that states - Click here to define a filter.  If you use your mouse to select this Filter Bar, depending on which field position is selected, you can filter out the records in the Consignee file by that filter.  Such as if you click on the Consignee ID field of the filter bar, and key in STAR, it will filter all the records and only show you the records with Star in the Consignee ID.  This goes the same in the other fields too.  Here is a screen shot of this task.

To bring all the records back, just clear the entry.

Below are the fields that are included in this screen and their definitions.

NAME:
This field is used to store the Consigned to/Customers Name.

ADDRESS 1:
This field is used for the Consigned to's Address Line 1 information:

ADDRESS 2:
This field is used for the Consigned to's Address Line 2 information:

ADDRESS 3:
This field is used for the Consigned to's Address Line 3 information:

CONSIGNEE ID:
This field is used as the Customer number, or ID.  

CONTACT:
This is the Contact name for the Consignee/Customer.

PHONE:
This is the Contact Phone number for the Consignee/Customer.  

DEFAULT SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
This field is used to display the Special Instructions that are entered on the main screen.  The entry here will be used on a new BOL if the particular Consignee is selected contains information here.  It has a look up of the Special Instructions file that if pre-loaded, you can select ones already defined.

DEFAULT ROUTE:
This field is used to display the Route Information that is entered on the main screen.  The entry here will be used on a new BOL if the particular Consignee is selected contains information here.

DEFAULT CARRIER:
This is a default value for the Carrier that is used to ship to this Consignee.  The entry here will be used on a new BOL if the particular Consignee is selected contains information here.

PREPAID/COLLECT/3RD PARTY:
This is a default value for the Consignee, and will be loaded to the BOL if Entered.

DEFAULT EMAIL ADDRESS:
This is a default value for the Consignee, and will be loaded to the BOL if Entered - this is used only if you use the email function in this program.

DELIVER TO ADDRESS:
To add Deliver to addresses for the selected Consignee, just click on the Edit Menu option and select Maintain Deliver To file.  This will assign the deliver to addresses to the selected Consignee.

6.6. Add/Maintain Deliver To's File

This screen is used to display/maintain the Consigned to/Customer Deliver To file if different that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

NAME:
This field is used to store the Deliver to/Customers Name.

ADDRESS 1:
This field is used for the Deliver to's Address Line 1 information:

ADDRESS 2:
This field is used for the Deliver to's Address Line 2 information: 

ADDRESS 3:
This field is used for the Deliver to's Address Line 3 information:

CONTACT:
This is the Contact name for the Deliver/Customer.  If you wish to use and display this information on the main entry screen and on the BOL form, just select this option in the Options Area.

PHONE:
This is the Contact Phone number for the Deliver/Customer.  This will only display if you are displaying the Deliver To Contact information in the system - See above. 

Import/Export Data

There is also an option to Import/Export data to/from an outside file.  This option is off the menu and will allow you to import/export data into/from this database file.

Just click on the option to import and follow the instructions.

See the Import/Export area for more information about this feature, along with the different file types that are supported.

6.7. Add/Maintain Descriptions/Items file

This screen is used to display/maintain the Descriptions/Items file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

 

DESCRIPTION:
This field is used to store frequently used Descriptions, Items, etc., for the detail line items of the Bill of Lading.

DESCRIPTION 2
This field is used to if a second description line is needed.

PRODUCT ID:
This field is used only for look up purposes during the entry of a Line item of the BOL.  It does not print on the Bill, but is useful if you wish to search the Descriptions/Item file by ID instead of Description/Item name.  You can set the system to search by this field on the Options Area.

DEFAULTS:
The following defaults can be entered and will load as defaults when entering line items.

UM - Unit of Measure

UM2 - Unit of Measure

WEIGHT - Item weight per unit

CLASS - Class

NMFC - National Motor Freight Classification

SUB - National Motor Freight Classification Sub number

HM - Determines if this is Hazardous Material or not.  Checked means it is.

Import/Export Data
There is also an option to Import/Export data to/from an outside file.  This option is off the menu and will allow you to import/export data into/from this database file.

Just click on the option to import and follow the instructions 

See the Import/Export area for more information about this feature, along with the different file types that are supported.

6.8. Add/Maintain Third Party Billing file

This screen is used to display/maintain the 3rd Party Billing file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

NAME/ADDRESS:
This field is used to store frequently used 3rd Party Billing Names and Addresses.

Import/Export Data
There is also an option to Import data from an outside file.  This option is off the menu and will allow you to import data into this database file.

Just click on the option to import and follow the instructions.

See the Import/Export area for more information about this feature, along with the different file types that are supported.

6.9. Add/Maintain Item Class file

This screen is used to display/maintain the Item Class file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

CLASS CODE:
This field is used to store frequently used Class Codes.

6.10. Add/Maintain the Unit of Measure Codes file

This screen is used to display/maintain the Unit of Measure file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

Unit of Measure Codes:
This field is used to store frequently used Unit of Measure Codes.

6.11. Add/Maintain Placards file

This screen is used to display/maintain the Placards file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

Placard Description:
This field is used to store Placard Descriptions that will be selected and displayed on the BOL.

UN Code:
This UN Code that is associated with the Placard.

6.12. Add/Maintain Special Instruction Codes File

This screen is used to display/maintain the Special Instructions Codes file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

SPECIAL INSTRUCTION CODE:
This field is used to store frequently used Special Instruction Codes.  This code is only used for look up function as it is not printed anywhere.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION:
This field is used to store associated Special Instructions.  These descriptions are what is printed on the BOL's if selected.

6.13. Add/Maintain Users

This screen is used to display/maintain the Users file that is used in the program.  You have basic Maintenance from this screen.  You can Add, Delete, Edit, etc., using the Navigation system displayed at the bottom of the screen.  To add a record, click on the + (plus) sign.  To delete, just click on the - (minus) sign.  It is all very simple and self explanatory.  The fields that are included in this screen are as follows:

User Name:
This field is used to store Name of the Users with access to this program.  This is a case sensitive field.

Password:
This field is used to store the Password associated with the User above.  This is a case sensitive field.

Level of Access:
This field is used to store the Level of Access for the associated User above.  There are three options.

Administrator - Full access to all areas of the program.
User - Full access to non-secure areas of the program.  Cannot access setup and administrative features.
Limited - Limited access to areas of the program.  Cannot access setup, administrative, and file maintenance features.  Can create and print BOL's.
View - Very limited access.  Can only view records and print reports.

Initial setup adds one user - ADMIN, with a password of ADMIN.  Please change this if using this feature.

6.14. Creating a Return BOL for Customer Shipping back to us.

A common option that is needed is the ability to Create a BOL that is to be sent to the Customer who is shipping product back to us on a Return.  To accomplish this task, we made it very simple procedure to allow you to create a BOL as you normally would and filling out the Consignee as who would normally be getting the shipment, but then to reverse the Shipper and Consignee you only need to check the Return BOL check box and print the BOL.  It will print the BOL as a Return BOL, and will change the Shipper and Consignee to be reversed. 

Here is what a normal BOL would look like as shown.

Here is the option on the Main Screen to check which will create is as a Return BOL.

Now the printed BOL looks like this....

As you can see the Shipper and Consignee is reversed. 

That is all there is to it.  Saves tons of time with creating new Shippers in your system for one time returns and such.

If you do not see this option on your main screen, you will need to turn it on in the System Options.  Here is how you can set it up to be displayed.  Click on the Setup menu on the main screen, then select Displayed/Options Fields.  On the Display Settings tab, there is a check box labeled - Display Print Return BOL Option.  Here is it on the screen as described..

Make sure this is checked, then click the Close button and it should now be displayed on the main screen for usage.  This option came out in version 11.00.

6.15. How can I delete an old bill?

If you cannot delete the displayed Bill by clicking on the Edit menu, then Delete Record, this is because the program is set to not allow this function. If you want to change the setup, run the program, click on the Setup menu, then Displayed/Options fields.

This will display the setup options for the program. Click on the System Settings Tab. There is a check box listed on this page that states - Disable BOL Delete function. Click on this box to remove the check mark.

Then close the screen, Exit the program to save. Restart the program. Now you will be able to delete Bills.

6.16. How do I add a second line to the BOL details?

All you need to do is to either press the Return/Enter key or the Tab key through the rest of the detail fields until you reach the end of the line. The program will automatically add a second line. You can also perform this task by pressing the down arrow key. In addition, if you want to add a blank line you must enter a character into the description line, by just pressing the space bar. Then tab through the rest of the fields as described above.

6.17. Can I re-print or change an existing BOL?

You can re-print or perform changes to a printed BOL by clicking on Edit, then Change/Reset BOL Status.

This will change the BOL status to not printed and allow you to make changes.
If you would like to disable the printed lock option, click on Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields.

This will display the setup options for the program. Click on the System Settings Tab. There is a check box listed on this page that states - Disable the Printed BOL lock. Click on this box to remove the check mark.

Then close the screen. Exit the program to save. Restart the program. Then you will be able to change anything at any time.

6.18. Batch Printing BOL's / Shipping Labels

6.19. How do I turn on/off the Printed BOL Lock

There is an option that can be used to lock a printed BOL in the system so that it cannot be edited after it has been printed.  

To turn this option on or off, click on Setup, then Displayed Options Fields.

This will display the setup options for the program. Click on the System Settings Tab. Then check or uncheck the box next to - Disable the Printed BOL lock. If you turn it off, then you will be able to change anything at any time.

If it is turned on, then every bill that is printed will no longer be able to be edited without resetting the BOL status. This is done by clicking on Edit, then selecting Change/Reset BOL Status.

 

6.20. Printing issues with the OKIDATA printer

If you are having problems with printing to Okidata 590 printer, try using the print drivers for the Epson lq-800 driver it prints perfectly. This is a problem with XP and Okidata 590 printers.

Same thing goes with the Okidata Microline 395C

6.21. Program runs but does not show - just waits then disapears

The problem could be the DEP (Data Execution Prevention) option in the system is not allowing this to run. To correct this, follow the options below.

Windows 7
Click on the Windows Start Button.
Click on the Control Panel
Click on System and Security
Click on the System Selection
Click on the Advanced System Settings
Click on the Advanced Tab
Click on the Performance Settings
Click on the Data Execution Prevention Tab

If the option is set to Turn on DEP for all programs and services except for those I select. Then you should add Star Bill of Lading to your options. To do this just follow the options below.
Click on the Add button. Browse to the folder called Program Files, then Star Bill of Lading, then select STARBOL.exe, and click on the Open Button. Then click Apply, or OK buttons. This will add the program to the exception list. Just close the windows and try running the program again. It should execute now.

(The folder location can be either Program Files or Program Files (x86) if running a 64 bit machine)

Or, you can just change the option to Turn on DEP for Essential Windows Programs and services only. Then you will need to re-boot and everything should work for you.

Windows 10
Click on the Start Button and Key in This PC.

Right Click on This PC and Select Properties.

You then Click on Advanced system settings on the left side of the screen.

You will be displayed the System Properties screen. Click on the Advanced Tab.

Windows 11
Click on the Start Button and Key in Advanced System Settings.  You will be displayed this screen. Click on Open.

Click on the Settings Button under Performance.

This will display the Performance Options.

Click on the Data Execution Prevention Tab.
If you have the Turn on DEP for all programs and sevices except those I select then you can add the program to the list.

Click on the Add button, then browse to the folder that contains the executable file - In this case - C:\Program Files(x86)\Star Bill of Lading
Then select the executable - starbol.exe
Click Open to add it to the list.
When finished select Apply and close all the windows.

If the option on the DEP screen is Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only, then you should not need to perform this.

7.1. How to turn on or off the Automatic Backup utility on Exit

Below are instructions on how to turn on or off the optional Auto Backup Utility.

To do this, first click on Setup and select Displayed/Options Fields.

This is the screen you will be presented with. Select the System Settings tab.

On this screen you will place a check mark in the box that says Use Backup Feature on Exit.

Click Close to save your settings. 

When you Exit the software, you will see the follow screen:

When you click Yes, you will see the next screen.

This is where you will choose a Save location. Click the folder at the end of the line. For our example, we chose the Desktop.

Once you defined a Save location, click on Save.

You will return to the Backup screen.

Click on Backup. Then Exit. 

The other option that is available on the System Settings screen is to check the box that says Automatically Backup on Exit. When checked, you will not the see the Save location screen every time you Exit. It will Save/Backup to the location you initially selected when you set it up.

 

 

 

7.2. Turn on Automatic Backup utility on Exit

After having Star Bill of Lading open, first click on Setup and click on Displayed/Options Fields.

The Setup Option Selection will open up. Click on System Settings near the top middle.

On this screen at the very bottom, click the box for Automatically Backup on Exit.

Now you can close this window. It will Automatically Backup your BOL files in the location where you have originally set your backup location when you close Bill of Lading.

 

If you have not already set a location for your backups, after you click Close, you will be presented with the Star Data System Backup/Restore window. Click on the file icon in the right of the text box if you want to change the location.

You will then be able to choose where Bill of Lading backups are stored.

You can now click save. Your files will now backup automatically whenever you close Bill of lading.

7.3. Have a system wide number scheme

To create a system wide BOL# sequence, run the program. Click Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields. 

This will display the different setup options for the program. 

Under the System Settings tab, there is a field called Create BOL# using System Wide #. Change this to yes.

Click Close. Then exit the program to save your changes. Run the program to see your change take effect.

Make sure you have the correct last BOL# that you want to use under the Shipper Setup Screen as shown below.

Click Close. Then exit the program to save your changes. Run the program to see your change take effect.

7.4. Turn on/off the Printed BOL Lock

There is an option that can be used to lock a printed BOL in the system so that it cannot be edited after it has been printed.

To turn this option on or off, click on Setup, then Displayed Options Fields.

This will display the setup options for the program. Click on the System Settings Tab. Then check or uncheck the box next to - Disable the Printed BOL lock. If you turn it off, then you will be able to change anything at any time.

If it is turned on, then every bill that is printed will no longer be able to be edited without resetting the BOL status. This is done by clicking on Edit, then selecting Change/Reset BOL Status.

7.5. Turn off the Password Security or Change Passwords

If you are referring to the Login screen in the BOL program, you can use the default of ADMIN, with a password of ADMIN. If you want to turn this off, follow these instructions. Run the program. Click Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields.

Under the System Settings tab, there is a check box that says - Use Password Security for Users. Uncheck this box to turn off the Password Security.

If you just want to change a password, you can do so by running the program, then click Maintenance, then Maintain Users.

Here is where you setup Users and Passwords. Click the + sign at the bottom to create a blank record to add a user.

7.6. Turn on Password Security

If you want to turn on the User Security in this program, you can do so by clicking on Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields.

Under the System Settings tab, there is a check box that says - Use Password Security for Users. Check this box to turn on the Password Security.

To setup the Users and Passwords, run the program then click on Maintenance, then Maintain Users.

Here is where you setup Users and Passwords.

To add a User, click the + plus sign. Then fill in the User Name & Password fields. Then select an Access Level.

Here are the different levels of Access:

A - Administrator - Full access to all areas of the program.

U - User - Full access to non-secure areas of the program. Cannot access setup or administrative features such as User Setup.

L - Limited - Limited access to non-secure areas of the program. Cannot access setup, maintenance, or administrative features.

V - View - Very limited access. Can only view records and print reports.

Default Shipper Selection - What this field does is, when a User signs on, he/she is automatically assigned to the shipper that is selected in this record. This allows for Customers with multiple shippers to assign certain users to different shippers if desirable.

To Delete a user, highlight the user you wish to delete then click the - minus sign.

When you are finished click the √ check mark then Close.

7.7. Delete an old bill

If you cannot delete the displayed Bill by clicking on Edit, then Delete Record, this is because the program is set to not allow this function. If you want to change this, run the program, click Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields. 

This will display the Setup Options for the program. Under the System Settings tab, there is a check box listed on this page that states - Disable BOL Delete function. Click on this box to remove the check mark. 

Then click close, Exit the program to save your changes and re-run. Now you will be able to delete Bills.

7.8. Add a second line

All you need to do is to press the either the Return/Enter key or the tab key through the rest of the detail fields until you reach the end of the line, the program will automatically add a second line. etc. You can perform this tasks by just pressing the down arrow key too. Also, if you want to add a blank line, you must enter a character into the description line, such as just pressing the space bar, then tab through the rest of the fields as described above.

7.9. Change to manually keying in the BOL#

To change the system so that you have to manually enter the BOL#'s just perform the following.

From the Main screen, click on the Setup Menu, then System/Shipper Setup Properties, or just press F4.

On this screen, select the Shipper to change the settings, then click on the field that states - Modifiable BOL#.  This should place a check mark in the box. 

Then Close this screen, and exit the program. 

Re-start the program and the change will cause you to enter the BOL# on each BOL you create from then on.

 

7.10. Change it back to auto create BOL#

From the Main screen, click on the Setup Menu, then System/Shipper Setup Properties, or just press F4.

On this screen, select the Shipper to change the settings, then click on the field that states - Modifiable BOL#.

Then Close this screen, and exit the program.

Re-start the program and the change will cause the system to create the BOL# on each BOL you create.

If you have any other questions, please let us know.

7.11. How can I change the program to print a different field as the printed BOL#?

We have included a setting in the program that will allow the printed BOL# to print on a bill as a different field other than the actual System BOL#.  With this setting turned on, you can select from the following BOL fields that are in the program to be used as the printed BOL on the form. Your choices for this printed field are as follows:
1-BOL# (Default)
2-Our Order No.
3-Cust Order No.
4-Carrier No.
You can choose any one of these fields that are on the Main BOL Entry screen to be used as the actual printed BOL# on the form.

To perform this change, run the program, click on Setup then select Displayed/Options Fields.

This will display the Setup Options screen. Click on the Tab that states - System Settings. There is an option that states - Printed BOL# will be from:. This is where you would select what you wish to use. Use the drop down to make your selection.

Click on the Close button at the bottom of the screen, then close the program to save your changes and re-run the program. Now you will manually key in the selected field for each BOL and it will print that value as the BOL#.

The system still automatically will create an internal BOL#, as this is needed for the system, but the printed BOL # will be the value you have entered in the selected field.

You can also change the Heading of the field from Our Order Number to something else if you wish so you do not get confused on what this field represents. This is also on the Displayed/Options Fields screen under the Field Settings Tab.

7.12. Enable the Section 7 Signature area

You need to enable this item. Click on the Setup menu, then Displayed/Options fields. 

This will display the Setup Options screen. Under the Display Settings tab, click on the check mark field that is listed as Enable Section 7 Signature Entry. 

 

Close this screen, then exit the program. 

When you go back into the program, you will see the Section 7 Signature field on the main screen. Then you can key in a signature name to be printed in this section of the bill. You will have to key in a signature on each bill, as this represents you actually signing the bill.

This is what your signature will look like on the printed bill

 

7.13. Turn on Unit Weight calculations option.

If you would like the option to calculate the line item weights by Unit Weight, you must enable it.  Here are the instructions to perform this task.

Run the software. Click on the Setup Menu, then Displayed/Options Fields.

On the Display Settings Tab, there is a check box that says - Use Unit Weight to calculate Weight field - Detail. Click on the Box to place a Check mark in it.  Click on the Close button.  

This will Turn on the Unit Weight Field in the Line Item Detail section of the BOL entry.

The calculations for the Weight field will now be based on the Qty * Unit Weight to give the total Weight for the line item.  You can still override the Weight field by keying in a value incase you choose to add extra weight to the amount such as Tare.

This will also change the Item Description Maintenance screen to reflect the Unit Weight instead of just Weight as shown below.

 

7.14. Turn off the option to not automatically print the Terms and Conditions page with each BOL

Run the program. Click on Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields.

Under the Display Settings tab, Auto Print Terms and Conditions with each BOL. Make sure this is Unchecked.  This will turn off this option.

7.15. Turn off the Box Shading

To turn off the Box Shading. Click Setup, then Displayed/Options fields. 

Then click the System Settings Tab

On this screen there is a field that states: Remove Box Shading - Inkjet. Use the drop down and select YES. 

Then click Close.

Then close the program to save your changes and restart the Star Bill of Lading Software

 

7.16. Setup the Email System

To set up the Star Bill of Lading System to send bills via email you must perform the following setup first.

From the Main screen, click on Setup, then Displayed Options/Fields.

This will display the different setup options available. Under the Display Settings tab, put a check mark in the box that states - Display Email BOL Button.

Then close this screen.

From the Main screen, click Setup, then Email System Setup. 

This will display the Email Configuration Setup screen. You need to fill in the fields displayed on the screen with your information. 

Here are the fields.

• From Name: - This is your name or Company name as it will be listed in the email.
• From Email Address:  This is your email address, or Company email address.
• Email Reply-To Email Address:  This is the email address you want recipients to reply to if they wish to do so.
• Email Account User Name:  This is the email account User Name.  This you should have received from your ISP.
• Account Password:  This is the password associated with your User Name assigned to you by your ISP.
• SMTP Address:  This is your SMTP server address from your ISP - such as mail.yourdomain.com.  This is also assigned from your ISP.  Also, the port you will be sending the email from.
• Email Tracking Subject:  This field will be used as the Subject field of the email that is to be sent to the Consignee.
• Email Tracking Message Part 1:  This memo field will be used as the first part of the email message that is to be sent to the Consignee.  You can use this field in combination with the other options to create a customized email message to be sent.
• Email Tracking Message Part 2:  This memo field will be used as the second part of the email message that is to be sent to the Consignee.  We broke this up into two parts to allow you to further customize the email message.  This will be included in the email message after the Customer Order Number and Email Tracking link of the shipment if used.
• Show Customer Order #: This will include the Customer Order Number on the email being sent to the Consignee if chosen.  Now, you may have changed the actual naming of this field in the setup, such as PO#, or something that you preferred, but it will include this value in the email message body if selected.
• Show Web Tracking: If selected, this will include the Web Tracking address in the email to to be sent to the Consignee if chosen.  This will be created using the Email Tracking Link Setup that is assigned to the Carrier selected to make the Shipment.  If the selected Carrier does not have a web site to track the shipment with, it will not be displayed in the email sent to the Consignee.  See the Carrier Setup screen to see how this is generated.

After filling out this information, this will unlock the system to allow you to send the bills via email.  The emails are sent after you click the Print button to print.  Then you can modify the System Setup Options to display the email button.

When you want to send the bill via email, just click print for the BOL, then press the Email button.  You will be prompted for the email address to send it to.  That is about all there is to it.

We have added another email option that will allow you to send the emails via a MAPI enabled email client such as Outlook Express.  To use this option, setup the email system as described above, then click on the Setup menu, then Displayed/Options Fields.  This will display the different options available in the system.  Click on the third tab - Systems Settings.  There is an option that states - Use MAPI email instead of BOL system default?  Just check this option and the program will call your default email program to send email instead of this systems default one.

Then, to email a bill, just select the bill just as you would print it, click on the Print button, a screen will display to select the print options.  There will be a Email BOL button displayed that you would click on to activate the email feature. 
If you are using the system default, then it will ask for the email address to send it to.
If you are using the MAPI email feature, it will call your email program, attach the BOL to the email and you would then enter the email address, just as you would any other emails.

7.17. How do I setup the Email system to use my Gmail account

The following information is used to setup the internal email system to use your Gmail Account.

To set up the Star Bill of Lading System to send bills via email you must perform the following setup first.

From the Main screen, click on Setup, then Displayed Options/Fields.

This will display the different setup options available. Under the Display Settings tab, put a check mark in the box that states - Display Email BOL Button.

Then click on the Tab above that states - System Settings and be sure to select the Use SSL Auth to Send Emails.

Then close this screen.

From the Main screen, click Setup, then Email System Setup. 

This will display the Email Configuration Setup screen. You need to fill in the fields displayed on the screen with your information. 

Here are the fields.

• From Name: - This is your name or Company name as it will be listed in the email.
• From Email Address:  This is your email address.
• Email Reply-To Email Address:  This is the email address you want recipients to reply to.
• Email Account User Name:  This is the email account User Name.  This you should be your Gmail email address.
• Account Password:  This is the password associated with your User Name assigned to you.
• SMTP Address:  This is your SMTP server address from gmail - use smtp.gmail.com.  Also, the port should be 587.

After filling out this information, this will unlock the system to allow you to send the bills via email.  The emails are sent after you click the Print button to print.  

When you want to send the bill via email, just click print for the BOL, then press the Email button.  You will be prompted for the email address to send it to.  That is about all there is to it.

If you are going to use your Gmail account to send the emails, there are options you need to perform.

Google Security restrictions
In 2019, Google implemented restrictions on 3rd party software and services accessing Gmail. To get around this you will need to use the application password method described below. 

GMail 2-step Verification - using with Star Bill of Lading
To use a Gmail account with Star Bill of Lading, where 2-step verification has been inaugurated, you simply need to create and use an application-specific password. To do this, log into your Gmail account using a web browser, then visit the following page for details on how to create an application specific password:

https://support.google.com/mail/answer/185833?hl=en&visit_id=636785160880778800-2766845104&rd=1

You then simply use the provided application-specific password in Star Bill of Lading (instead of the password you would use to log in to Gmail) with your normal Gmail address for the account in question.

After this has been completed, you should be setup to use Gmail as you email sending account.

7.18. How do I setup the Email system to use my Office 365 account

The following information is used to setup the internal email system to use your Office 365 Account.

To set up the Star Bill of Lading System to send bills via email you must perform the following setup first.

From the Main screen, click on Setup, then Displayed Options/Fields.

This will display the different setup options available. Under the Display Settings tab, put a check mark in the box that states - Display Email BOL Button.

Then click on the Tab above that states - System Settings and be sure to select the Use SSL Auth to Send Emails.

Then close this screen.

From the Main screen, click Setup, then Email System Setup. 

This will display the Email Configuration Setup screen. You need to fill in the fields displayed on the screen with your information. 

Here are the fields.

• From Name: - This is your name or Company name as it will be listed in the email.
• From Email Address:  This is your email address.
• Email Reply-To Email Address:  This is the email address you want recipients to reply to.
• Email Account User Name:  This is the email account User Name.  This you should be your Office 365 email address.
• Account Password:  This is the password associated with your User Name assigned to you.
• SMTP Address:  This is your SMTP server address from gmail - use smtp.office365.com.  Also, the port should be 587.

After filling out this information, this will unlock the system to allow you to send the bills via email.  The emails are sent after you click the Print button to print.  

When you want to send the bill via email, just click print for the BOL, then press the Email button.  You will be prompted for the email address to send it to.  That is about all there is to it.

 

7.19. Setup to use Outlook 365 email client to send emails?

If you are using Outlook 365 email client and need to send the BOL's out via this client, you will need to setup the BOL system to send the BOL pdf to the Outlook 365 Send folder so it can be emailed out to the customer.

Microsoft has changed the communication link (MAPI) that allows for sending emails out via their client and we have had to make a change to allow this to happen from within the BOL software.

You will first need to know if your Outlook 365 version that is installed is a 32bit or 64 bit application.  To find this out, run your Outlook 365.  Click on the File menu, then Office Account.  You will see a button that states — About Outlook.  Click on that button.  It should state whether it is a 32bit or 64 bit application.

Then you can proceed with setting the options in the BOL to be able to communicate with Outlook to send the email to it. 

First run the Star Bill of Lading application.  Click on the Setup menu, and Displayed/Options Fields menu.

This will display the Displayed/Options Settings screen.

Click on the System Settings Tab to display System Settings options.

Then make sure you click on the Use MAPI email instead of BOL system default?, and the Use Outlook 365 Mail Client.

If you have the 32 bit version of Outlook 365 that you checked earlier, then you should be able to click the Close button and you are done with this step.

If you have the 64 bit version of Outlook 365, then you will need to register the 64 bit Mapi COM Server so you can communicate with Outlook 365.  This can be done from the Help menu on this screen and select Register 64 bit Mapi Com Server.  Now, you must be an Administrator on this machine to be able to Register this, so if you have issues, please contact your Network Administrator for access to run this option.

After this has been completed you can click the Close button.

Now the link should be setup.

When you click the Print option from the Main screen, then Email Bill, it will send the created PDF addressed to the email you entered directly to the Send folder in Outlook 365 and will be sent to the recipient during the normal send email processing.  If Outlook 365 is not open, then it will send when you open the Outlook 365 application and processes it's normal send routine.

To setup or change the actual email Subject and Body of the email, you need to create or change the email content under the email setup screen.

To access this, from the main screen, click on the Setup menu again, then Email System Setup.

You can change the Email Subject, Email Message Part 1, and Part 2 to create a customized email that will be used when sending the emails to your recipient.  There is more information about this and the fields used and and example under the Email Setup link here. https://starresoft.helpspot.com/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=322

That is the extent of setting up the BOL system to email using Outlook 365.  If you have any questions, please browse through the Knowledge Books or contact our Help Desk for more instructions.

7.20. Print to a PDF file.

You can print your bills to a PDF file that can be used to send via email or storage, whatever you choose to do with it. To turn this option on in the program, run the program. Click on Setup, then Displayed /Options Fields.

This will display the different options in the program. Under the Display Settings Tab, check the box next to where it says - Display Print 2 PDF Button.

Then click on the Close button.  Exit the program and restart.

When you click on the Print Button to print a bill, you will be displayed the option to either Print, or Print 2 PDF.

If you select the Print 2 PDF option in version 11 of the BOL software, you will need to select a save location. Our example is a folder we created called Star Bills PDF. Click Open.

Then click Save.

If you are running an earlier version of the BOL program, you will be displayed the Printer Dialog screen seen below, just as you would to print the bill.

The difference is, at the bottom of the screen there is a check mark stating Print to File, and there is a Type specified as PDF File. Then click the ellipsis, where you name and save the PDF file. You can then use that file to send via email or whatever else you may wish to do with it.

 

7.21. Enter Registration Codes

To properly Enter your registration codes follow these instructions.
Click on the Windows Start button, scroll to select the Star Bill of Lading folder and click Register Program.

This will display a window to enter your User Name and Key. 

Enter the codes that were sent to you. The click OK.

 

7.22. Change Auto Capitalizing Items/Descriptions

You need to change the setup option in the program to allow for lower case letters.

Run the program.  Click on Setup, then Displayed/Options Fields

Under the Display Settings tab, un-check the Auto Capitalize Desc/Items.

Then click Close.

Then close the program to save your changes and restart the Star Bill of Lading Software

7.23. Reset the internally saved registry settings back to original.

To Reset the screen sizing, fonts, and other settings back to the original settings, or to just reset all internal saved settings, please follow these instructions.

You can run the application from the Windows Start Button, All Apps, Star Bill of Lading, Clear Registry Settings Utility.

Or, you can Run the Bill of Lading application.

You can select either option below to perform the reset.

Click on the Setup, then select - Reset All Internal Screen Settings.

or,

Press the key combination of: Ctrl-Alt-R

After the Reset is selected, it will run the reset application.

Click the Clear Settings button to clear the internally saved settings for the software. 

This will reset the settings back to the original settings and close the program.

As of version 11.40, upon exiting the program, you will be given the opportunity to perform a backup of your database if you desire.

 

---

We have found that on some systems based on security settings, Windows will not allow this reset, as it returns an error and does not allow this reset to run.  

In these circumstances, you can run this reset manually by running the regedit program in windows.  Here are the instructions to perform this task manually.

First - Run the regedit.exe program. Type regedit into the search field next to the Windows Start button. Then select Registry Editor

 This will run the Registry Editor.  These are internal setting for Windows that keeps track of multiple settings for Windows along with your software products that are installed on the machine. You must be careful when making changes in this software as it can cause issues if you change the wrong settings. 

When the program is run, you will be displayed a screen similar to the one shown below.  You will need to scroll down to the settings as displayed - for the Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\System key as shown at the top arrow.

When you are pointing to the System Key as displayed under Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\System key, you can right click and select Delete.  

You will be prompted if you really want to delete it.  As long as you are on the selection that is displayed, you can go ahead and delete this key.  This will delete all the system setting for the Bill of Lading software.  

 

After this is completed, you can close the Registry Editor and re-run the Bill of Lading software.  When you run the software, it will re-create the settings and should be good to go.

 

7.24. Delete a Shipper from the System

We do not advertise this because it can cause issues, but you can do this under the Shipper Setup/Options screen.

Click on Setup and select System/Shipper Setup Properties.

Then select the shipper to be deleted by selecting it in the grid at the top of the screen. 

Next, click on the Edit menu, and select Delete Shipper.

You will be prompted with a warning screen. Proceed with caution. This will cause the record to be deleted.

NOTE - If you delete a shipper that you have used to create Bill of Ladings in the past, deleting will also delete the BOL history for that shipper.

7.25. Run the file Re-Index program

To Re-Index the data files, be sure to run a backup of your data files first.

Backup Files

Then run the following program. Click on the Windows Start Button, All Programs, Star Bill of Lading, Utilities, Index Rebuild Utility. 

This will run a program to rebuild your indexes.  Be sure  that the location of the files in the program match where you data files reside. Then click Re-Build. Also, make sure no one is accessing the data files.

If all went well, it will inform you.

Click Exit and re-run the software. This should have corrected your problem.

If it did not, please download and install the latest index rebuild program from here:

BOL Latest Index Rebuild Download Application

 

 

 

7.26. Purge old BOL's from the system

You can purge old Bills from the system at anytime, as long as there are no other users accessing the data files. (if you are using the network edition)

Before doing anything, make sure you have a current backup of your database.

How to Backup your DB

You can purge the data in two ways. Permanent, or Temporarily.

Permanent - will remove the selected Bills forever.

Temporary - will save the old Bills to a purge file. You can retrieve them back into the system at a later date.

To purge the old bills, run the program. Click File, then Backup/Restore Data then click Purge/Restore Old BOL's from/to System.

This will close the program and will run an external program that will walk you through the process.

It is pretty straight forward. But, please be careful as if you permanently purge, you cannot get those files back, without a system restore.

7.27. Backup the data files.

You can run a backup of the data files at anytime as long as there is no one using the program (if using the Network Edition). The program will create a zip file of all your data files and can be stored anywhere on your system, network drive, flash drive, etc. Our example saves it to the C:\ drive. To perform this operation just follow the steps below.

There are two ways to arrive at the Backup/Restore Utility.

First, run the program. Click File, Backup/Restore Data, then click Backup/Save Data Files to Archives.

OR, click the Windows Start Button, scroll to and open the Star Bill of Lading folder then select Backup-Restore Data Files Utility.

This will run the Backup/Restore Utility.

You would then select the location of the backup file you want to create/save.

Click on the folder to select a location to store the backup files.

This will display the folder selection screen.

The best location for you to use is probably your Desktop, as it is easy to find.  However, you can use whatever location on your system you want.  After you select where you want the file to be saved to, click on the save button. You can also change the name of the zip file. If you do change it, be sure to include the suffix .zip at the end of the name.

This will take you back to the main screen of the backup utility.

 When you get back to this screen, click on Backup to perform the actual backup of the data files.

Click Exit

Your files are backed up.

 

 

7.28. Restore the data files

You can run a restore of the data files at anytime as long as there is nobody in the program(if using the Network Edition).  And of course that you have previously already backup up the data to a zip file.  The program will restore the zip file of all your data files.  To perform this operation just follow the steps below.

1.  From the Windows Start menu, under All Programs, Star Bill of Lading, Utilities, Backup/Restore Data Files Utility.

If running from the program, click on the File, then Backup/Restore Data, then Restore Previously Saved Data from Archives.

This will run the Backup.Restore Utility.

You would then select the location of the already backed up zip file you want to restore.

Click on the folder to select the location of the previously saved backup.

This will display the folder selection screen.

After you select the file you want to restore, just click the save button.

This will take you back to the main screen of the backup utility.

When you get back to this screen, just click on the Restore Button to perform the actual Restore of the data files.

You may or may not see the following screen prompt.
You will then be promted to overwrite the current files on your system. Select Yes to All. This will allow the program to overwrite all the files that are currently on your system.

When finished, it will return to this screen.  

Just click on the Exit button.

 

7.29. How do I run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility

Here are the instructions to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. 

This utility is used to configure or point the Bill of Lading program to the database files.  These can be located on the local workstation.  It can also be on a shared workstation or server. If you choose a location on your system that the database does not exist, it will tell the program to create a new database to be used.

To run the WCSU (Workstation Configuration Setup Utility), click on the Windows Start Button, scroll to the Star Bill of Lading folder and select the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

This will display the Current Location of the data files. To configure the data pointer, you need to click on the Set Location button. 

The following screen shot is what the older version of the WCSU looks like.

This is what the latest version looks like.  As it allows for manual entry of the UNC path that contains the database location.

This will show you a layout of your folders and network drives.

You need to know where your data files are to set this location.

Select the Server/Workstation where YOUR data files reside. Once you have highlighted where your data files reside, click OK.

DO NOT USE MAPPED DRIVES SUCH AS A Z: DRIVE, BE SURE TO USE THE UNC LOCATION SUCH AS \\M9040n\Users\AppData\BOL Data
THIS IS BECAUSE THE MAPPING MIGHT BE DIFFERENT ON EACH WORKSTATION AND CAN CHANGE.  We also do not support mapped drives.

If all was successful, it will say The Database location has been set - click on Post.

If you need to manually enter the UNC path, you can do so by clicking on the Menu option or Ctrl-M as displayed below.

You can run Windows Explorer to find the database location on your Network as shown below.

After you have found the location, you can Right Click and a popup menu will be displayed to Copy the Location to the Clipboard as shown below.

Back to the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility you will see the path field for manual entry or you can paste a location (Ctrl-V) that you may have copied from Windows Explorer.

After all is completed, you can then click on the Exit button.

Run the Bill of Lading program and if all was done correctly it should open and you should see your data, or build a new set if that was the choice.

 

7.30. Point the program to access a different database location.

If you have had to re-install or installed the software onto a new workstation and need to point the program to access the database that resides on a server or some other location, follow these instructions.

1. Run the program. Normally if this is a new install and there is not a database installed, it will ask you a series of questions to point to one, or create a new one.  If you did not perform this task, and it is now pointing to a blank set of data files and you need to point to the actual database at a different location then Click on the Help menu, then About...

2. This will display the About screen. Here you will see the current location the program is pointing at to access the database.

3. Click on this link to see the options for the location. You have two choices.  In this case, select the Create/Open New Database.

4. This will display a browse for location screen where you would select the actual location of your database you wish to use. When you get to that location, click OK and you should be all set.

7.31. Move the database files to a new location.

If you need to move the database files from the current location to another, say a shared workstation or a server.  Follow these instructions.

Run the software, click on the Help menu at the top of the screen, then About..  You will see the About screen.  Click on the link that shows you the location of the current data files. as show.

When you click on the link, it will popup a menu selection to either Open or Move, select the Move option.

This will display the browse option.  Use this to browse over to a different location/workstation/server.

You can Create a new Folder to store the data files by clicking on the Make New Folder.  When the location is where you want the data files, click OK.  The program will close, and you will need to re-run.  You have moved the database.

7.32. How Do I Run the Data Conversion Utility

First, you need to know where the old data resides for the previous version. The data is either on the default local drive or it is somewhere on your network. If you are upgrading from version 4 or5, run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility from the previous version. To do this, click the Windows Start Button then Programs (or All Programs) then Star Bill of Lading then Utilities then select Workstation Configuration Setup Utility. Below is a screenshot when using a Windows 7 computer. 

This will tell you where the data resides. If you are upgrading from version 3 or earlier, you will need to locate the file in the installation folder called ads.ini This will tell you where the current data files are located. Be sure to note where this is.

Once you have made a note of the file location, you can close this screen.

The following is from a Windows 10 computer.

Second, you need to run the Conversion Utility. This does not need to be run if upgrading from version 6 or newer. You can select this option by clicking on the Windows Start Button, scroll to the Star Bill of Lading folder, then select Convert data from older version.

This will ask you what version you are converting from. Be sure to select the correct version, and click convert.

You will be prompted for the folders that contain your old data and where to place the converted data.

Be sure to select the folder that contains the old data. And, normally leave the 'to' default location alone. This will tell the program to convert the data over to the local workstation. It is optimal to do this before installing the upgrade on the other workstations. If everything is correct, then just click on the Convert button. This will convert your old data and load it into the latest version database. Then click on Exit. You are finished with this step.

If everything went smoothly, then you should have a copy of the converted database on your local workstation under:

• C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data

You can run the software and verify everything is working correctly.

7.33. Save and load the import specifications

To save the specifications after defining them, click on the Specifications button.

Then click on the Save button.

Save the specifications by saving to a location you want, and name it as needed.

To use a saved set of specifications, just click on the Specifications button.

Then click on the load button to load the displayed specifications.

You can then skip using the >> button to go to the end of the specs and execute the import.

7.34. How do I find out where my data files reside on the system?

To find out where your data files reside that are being used by the program, you can check two places for this answer.

If using a more current version of the software, you can run it, then click Help, then About... 

This will list the location of the data files on the bottom part of the screen.

Or, you can run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility to find out the location being used.

Here are the instructions to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

Click on the Windows Start Button, All Programs, Star Bill of Lading, Utilities, Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

This will tell you where the data files for the program is located on your system or network.

 

7.35. How to turn on the option to see Hidden files on your system.

Windows hides important files and folders from view to keep users from deleting or otherwise modifying files they shouldn't, but a simple checkbox can change that behavior.

You can run Windows Explorer by Right Clicking on the Windows Start Button, and selecting File Explorer.

To show hidden files, select the View tab, and then click the Hidden items box.

You should now see hidden items.

7.36. How do I allow Pallets to be added to the detail Quantity Totals?

Due to changes in the processing of the quantities, by default, using PLT as a UM does not get added to the order Quantities.

To change it so PLT does get added to the order quantity, follow these instructions:

Run the program. Click on Setup then Displayed/Options Fields

Then select the Systems Settings tab. Uncheck the "Do not include PLT..." box.

Click Close to Save. Now your PLT will be counted in the total quantity.

7.37. Set up the bills to add a separate LBS column.

If you are required to add a separate LBS column to the Bill of Lading, you can do this by changing some of the internal settings of the program. Here are the instructions to do so if you need them.

Run the program. Your screen could resemble the one displayed below.

We are going to insert a field in the section circled called LBS.

To perform this, click on the Setup menu, then Displayed/Options Fields.  

This will bring up the Setup Options Selection screen.  Select the Field Settings tab. 

Move down to the field called User 11 Detail.  Enter the characters LBS into the field so it looks like the following screen.

Click the Close button. Re-open the Setup options screen as before using the Setup menu on the main screen.  

Select the Display Settings tab. Then check the field displayed Display/Print LBS field - Detail to activate this field.

After checking the field, click on the Close button. The main screen should now display the new field on the main screen as listed below.

When keying in your Bill detail, enter LBS into the field and it will be used to print LBS on the printed bill.

 

7.38. Copy the contents of a previous bill to create a new one? - Copy/New

It is very simple to copy the contents of a prevously created bill to create a new one.  Here are the instructions.

Select the previous bill by using the Search feature/function or scrolling through already created bills.  Select the one you wish to copy, then when it is displayed on the main entry screen, click on the Edit menu, then Copy/New.  This will create a duplicate bill based on the contents of the selected bill.

This feature will not work if you have your system setup to use a Modifiable BOL# entry.  Only if the Auto BOL # assignment is use.

 

8.1. Virtual Store - Program doesn't see the data location I set

More than likely this is a Windows Security issue that is causing this problem. Windows is not properly using the ads.ini file that is stored in this version, and is probably trying to use a Virtual Store for this particular user. It seems like it is not saving or using the file properly. This has to do with the Windows Permissions.

You will need to manually copy the ads.ini file from the Virtual Store to the Program Files folder for the Bill of Lading folder. This is done by using the Windows File Explorer, and browsing to the C:\Users(the Users Name)\AppData\Local\VirtualStore\Program Files (x86)\Star Bill of Lading

There should be a file in the folder called - ads.ini

Copy that folder and place it into the folder - C:\Program Files (x86)\Star Bill of Lading

Replace what is in that folder and you should be good to go. If you do not have a 64bit machine, then you can skip the (x86) part of the path as displayed above.

FYI, this problem has been solved in the latest version of the software. So, if you would like to upgrade to the latest version, you can do so at no charge if you are current with your Support/Upgrades/Updates maintenance license. If you are not up to date with your support license, the cost for upgrading can be found here: https://www.starresoft.com/bolupgrades.htm. If you choose to do this, let us know and we can send you the information to proceed with this option.

Let me know if this helps and if you have any other questions.

8.2. Should/Could I use Mapped Drives to point to the data files on my server?

DO NOT USE MAPPED DRIVES SUCH AS A Z: DRIVE, BE SURE TO USE THE UNC LOCATION SUCH AS \\ServerA\Data Files\Star BOL Data\data
THIS IS BECAUSE THE MAPPING MIGHT BE DIFFERENT ON EACH WORKSTATION.

Definition of UNC: (Universal Naming Convention) - UNC is a filename format that is used to specify the location of files, folders, and resources on a local-area network (LAN). The UNC address of a file may look something like this:

\\server-name\directory\filename

UNC can also be used to identify peripheral devices shared on the network, including scanners and printers. It provides each shared resource with a unique address. This allows operating systems that support UNC (such as Windows) to access specific resources quickly and efficiently.

If you choose to use Mapped Drives, we do not support them.

If you do not know what this means, we would suggest contacting your IT Staff for more information. 

 

 

8.3. My Registration Codes Do Not Seem To Work.

Make sure that you copied the codes correctly.  One thing to remember is the
0 (zeros) are zeros and not the letter O.  This is a common mistake.

Be sure to key in the User name and codes exactly as given to you.  They are case sensitive so watch for that possibility.

Check the version you installed.  It must match against the information sent to you. 
Such as if you have installed the Network Version and purchased the Single Version
and visa versa.  This must match.  You can check this by running the program, then
clicking on the Help menu, then click on About...  This will tell you the version and
edition.  If you cannot run the program, such as it expired, check the Icon Color, if it
is Brown, then it is the Single User Edition.  If it is Blue, then it is the Network Edition.

If this was the case, then you can just download and install the correct version from our web site and install it over the top of the installation you already have.  The data should stay on your system and will not be overwritten.

8.4. What is the difference between the SE and NE versions?

The main differences between the SE (Single Edition) and the NE (Network Edition) are as follows.

SE
Installs on Single (1) Workstation (PC). 
All data is stored on that particular workstation.

NE
Can install on multiple Workstations (PC)
Accommodates up to 3 concurrent users at a time.
Data is stored on either a shared workstation, or File Server.
Data is shared between each Workstation
Since data can be placed on server, data is normally backup on timely basis (as long as you have a backup plan implemented.)

The Icon colors on the desktop are also different.  If the icon is Brown, then it is the SE (Single User Edition).  If it is Blue then it is the NE (Network Edition).

Single User Edition Icon

Network Edition Icon     

8.5. My Network Edition seems to be running very slow. What can be done about this?

It could be that there is a large amount of data being passed as in old bill information in the database. You may want to try to purge some of the older data. This is an option in the program under the Main menu, File, Backup/Restore Data, Purge/Restore Old BOL's from/to System. Here you can remove older bills and can either permanently or temporarily purge the data based on a date selection.

Here are the instructions to purge your old data.

About the only other option that would speed up the whole process since you have many bills in the system is to upgrade the database software to the Client Server Version.  This software is from SAP, called SAP Advantage Database.  It installs on your server and is made for this type of processing.  

The reasons you may need this software product is because our base package of the Star Bill of Lading software comes with a multi-user copy of their Local Database Server, which is installed on the workstation that the BOL software is installed on.  This handles all the data processing of the BOL software but on a Local Level, which is fine for Single User Installations and some Multi-User Installations if the data processing is at a minimum because each data transaction is processed at the local level (on the workstation) and if the database location is local, everything runs smoothly and quickly.  But if you are running the BOL and accessing the data on a File Server, each transaction that is called is accessed and processed on the local level, and the time to access each data record of each data file, takes time to pass this information back and forth between the workstation and server.  So it is much slower to run if you have a lot of data to lookup and process, or if you have multiple users accessing the data at one time.  So this software moves the processing to the Server level or data location level, which is exponentially faster.

Here is a short list showing the cost of the SAP ADS C/S software:
1 user server $159
2 user server $269
3 user server $450
5 user server $650
10 user server $1240

The above costs are based on concurrent users, which means users that are logged into the database or software at one time.  Not installed, actually using the software at the same time. 

The main difference while running this software on your network is the database processing is handled on the server where the data resides and not on the local workstation that the software currently runs on.  This speeds things up dramatically as you do not have to pass all the data files back and forth from the storage location to the workstation and back and forth etc.  There is a 30 day trial version available that you can download and install on your server so you can see the difference it makes if interested.  You can obtain this trial from here.  Here is the direct link: http://www.starresoft.com/boladsdownload.htm

Download and install it on your server (or shared workstation) that the Bill of Lading database files reside on.  It is very simple to install and run.  Hopefully this will solve your problem.  If you do this, and are satisfied of the results, you can just contact us directly to purchase.

The only requirements needed to run the ADS C/S software is as follows:

1. The ADS C/S software needs to be installed and running on the server or shared workstation, as it runs as a service on the machine.

2. The Star Bill of Lading Database File Folder must reside on the same physical drive as the ADS C/S is installed and running on.  So, if the ADS C/S software is on the C: drive, the Star Bill of Lading data folder has to also be on the C: drive of that machine.

There also maybe something bottlenecking your network, but that would be a long shot.

 

8.6. Issues sending bills by email - system is sending 2 copies or looping.

When I send a bill via email, the program loops twice, or causes issues with Outlook/Express/Mail.  What can I do?

There is a new option that was added to the program to turn off the dbl-loop.  This is under the Setup menu, Displayed/Options Fields option.  Then select System Settings.  There is an check mark option that states - Loop twice on Email Command.  If you are having this issue, then uncheck this option, as it should take care of this issue.

 

8.7. I cannot read the printed bill displayed on-line. Do you have a copy I can read?

Here is a copy of a printed bill...
http://www.starre.com/images/bol1000.pdf

8.8. How many users can the Network Edition be installed on?

The Network Edition of the software can be installed on as many workstations (PC's) in one location as you wish.
It accommodates up to 3 concurrent users at a time.

8.9. Do you have a pdf of the Star Bill of Lading Help file?

You can download the help file pdf from here:

Star Bill of Lading Help File PDF

8.10. Do you have an example of the Shipping labels that are included in the software?

Below are examples of the included Shipping labels available in this software.

 

Barcode style - 4"x6" via thermal Zebra style printer.

Avery Label 5168 style.

Avery Label 5163 style.

Avery Label 5164 style.

Avery Label 5165 style.

Avery Label 5526 style.

Avery Label 5163 Custom style.

 

4"x3" Thermal label style

More examples to follow.

8.11. I changed my label printer and now I cannot select a different one.

The way the system is setup for printing labels is that after you select a printer once, it keeps this set until you exit the application.  This saves key or mouse strokes.  So to change or select a different printer after it has been set, just exit the application and re-run.  You will be prompted to select a printer when you print the labels again.

 

8.12. What version of the application is installed on my machine?

If you need to know the version of the application that is running on your workstation, you can check this by clicking on the Help menu, then About...  This will display the following screen that will tell you the Edition (Single User or Network) of the software along with the Version number. 

If you cannot run the application on the workstation because of an error, you can check the version the following way.

Run the Windows File Explorer.  Browse to the installation folder of the application.  This should be under the C: drive, Program Files (x86)\Star Bill of Lading then right click on the file - starbol.exe and select properties, and click on the Details Tab, and it should show you the version number there as shown below.

8.13. What are the names of the data files used in the BOL program?

Here is a list of the file names used in the BOL program.

BOLD.ADI
BOLD.ADT
BOLH.ADI
BOLH.ADT
carr.ADI
carr.ADT
clas.ADT
cons.ADI
cons.ADT
ctrl.adm
ctrl.ADi
ctrl.ADT
delt.ADT
delt.adi
desc.ADT
desc.adi
dft.adt
eacc.ADT
eacc.ADT
flpw.adt
flpw.adi
impbol.adi
impbol.adt
lbls.adt
legl.adm
legl.ADT
man.adt
plac.adi
plac.adt
prgd.adt
prgh.adt
sicd.adi
sicd.adt
sys.adt
thir.adi
thir.ADT
um.adi
um.ADT
user01.adi
user01.adt
user02.adi
user02.adt
user03.adi
user03.adt
user04.adi
user04.adt
user05.adi
user05.adt
user06.adi
user06.adt
user07.adi
user07.adt
user08.adi
user08.adt
user09.adi
user09.adt
bolfile.smi;

8.14. Where are the data files that are being used located on my system?

If you need to find the location of the installed database, you can run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.  This will show you the location of the database.  Here are the steps to run the WCSU.

Click on the Start Menu, then All Programs, Star Bill of Lading, Workstation Configuration Setup Utility.

Of course the displayed location on the screen shot above is one we had setup for testing, but it will show you the current location of the database files that are being used in the software.

Depending on the version of the software you have installed, here is a list of the default locations that are/were used when originally installed unless moved or defined manually elsewhere.

SE - Single User Edition data file locations:

2.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading

3.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading 3

4.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading 4

5.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading 5\data

6.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data   (XP)

6.xx - C:\ProgramData\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Vista/W7/W8/W10)

7.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data   (XP)

7.xx - C:\ProgramData\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Vista/W7/W8/W10)

8.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data   (XP)

8.xx - C:\ProgramData\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Vista/W7/W8/W10)

9.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\Public Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (XP)

9.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (Vista/W7/W8/W10/W11)

10.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (W7/W8/W10/W11)

11.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (W7/W8/W10/W11)

12.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (W7/W8/W10/W11)

NE - Network Edition data file locations:

2.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading\data

3.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading 3\data

4.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading 4\data

5.xx - C:\Program Files\Star Bill of Lading 5\data

6.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data   (XP)

6.xx - C:\ProgramData\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Vista/W7/W8/W10)

7.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data   (XP)

7.xx - C:\ProgramData\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Vista/W7/W8/W10)

8.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data   (XP)

8.xx - C:\ProgramData\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (Vista/W7/W8/W10)

9.xx - C:\Documents and Settings\Public Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\data (XP)

9.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (Vista/W7/W8/W10/W11)

10.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (W7/W8/W10/W11)

11.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (W7/W8/W10/W11)

12.xx - C:\Users\Public\Documents\StarreSoft\Star Bill of Lading\Data (W7/W8/W10/W11)

8.15. Does Star Bill of Lading support 64-bit Windows?

YES!

The same installer can be used on 32-bit or 64 bit Windows.

8.16. Try to print a BOL and it does not print.

If you are trying to print a BOL with no detail lines contained in the bill, the bill will not print.  You need to have at least one detail line of information for the Bill to actually print.

If you are just testing, or actually want to print the bill with no detail lines, you can move to the grid for the detail lines and place a blank, or press the spacebar to put a blank character into the description field and press Enter.

Then the bill will print with blank detail lines.

8.17. Can I print more detail lines on the printed bill?

Unfortunately you cannot move any of the sections of the printed bill to make more lines available for extra Detail lines to print.  The default is 10.  

But, you can change the system to print to legal sized paper.  Here is how.

Run the software, click on the Setup menu, then Displayed/Options Fields.  Click on the Tab that states - System Settings.

There is a check box that says:  

Use Letter Size paper.  If this option is checked, then the program will use Letter Sized paper (8 1/2" x 11").  If this is unchecked, then it will use Legal Sized paper (8 1/2" x 14).

Just uncheck it and load Legal Sized paper into your printer and you should be good to go.

 

8.18. I right-clicked on the shipper drop down selection on the main screen and now I am locked. What can I do?

I Right-Clicked on the Shipper selection drop down on the main screen instead of Left-Clicking on it.  Now my screen is locked up.  What can I do?

All you need to do to get out of this is to press the Esc (Escape) key.  And this will reset the selection and get you back into the screen.  Or, if you left click on something outside the BOL program.  Either way resets the lock.

 

 

8.19. Program runs but does not show - just waits then disapears

When I installed the program and tried to run it, it looks like it wants to run, but just waits then disappears.

The problem could be the DEP (Data Execution Prevention) option in the system is not allowing this to run. To correct this, follow the options below.

Click on the Windows Start Button.
Click on the Control Panel
Click on System and Security
Click on the System Selection
Click on the Advanced System Settings
Click on the Advanced Tab
Click on the Performance Settings
Click on the Data Execution Prevention Tab
If the option is set to Turn on DEP for all programs and services except for those I select. Then you should add Star Bill of Lading to your options. To do this just follow the options below.
Click on the Add button. Browse to the folder called Program Files, then Star Bill of Lading, then select starbol.exe, and click on the Open Button. Then click Apply, or OK buttons. This will add the program to the exception list. Just close the windows and try running the program again. It should execute now.

Or, you can just change the option to Turn on DEP for Essential Windows Programs and services only. Then you will need to re-boot and everything should work for you.

 

8.20. Is there an ODBC driver available for the database used in this software?

Yes, there is an ODBC driver available for the database - Advantage Database from SAP.  

Here is the link to download it.

Advantage Database ODBC driver

We do not directly support this software product/driver, so if you wish to use it you are on your own.  We felt it was at least worth making it available to our Customers.  

 

8.21. Where can I purchase the SAP ADS C/S Software

You can purchase the SAP ADS C/S software directly from the SAP ADS Sales Team.  Here is more information along with their contact numbers.

SAP ADS Sales Team Contact Information 

8.22. Can this software run on a Cloud Server?

The quick answer is Yes. 

There are a few things that need to happen before implementing this software into a Cloud Server environment. 

Of course you need to implement a Windows Cloud Server like from AWS. AWS Lightsail is a pretty inexpensive option, of course there are others out there.

Install a copy of the SAP ADS Software to handle the database function on the server.  This needs to be done because of restrictions placed in the database. 

Install a copy of the Star Bill of Lading NE onto the server. 

Then you can RDP to the server and run the software that way.

Of course there is a bit more to do, but that is the quick answer to be able to run the software remotely if you do not have a server to access.

Here is a screen shot of the software running on an AWS Lightsail server running RDP on a laptop.

 

 

8.23. Can this software be run on a MAC computer?

Yes, it can run on a MAC computer with the help of a third party piece of software.  We have tested the software using a product from CodeWeavers called CrossOver.

Here is the web site for more information on this product. https://www.codeweavers.com/crossover

Here is a video on how to install the software using CrossOver on a MAC.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnzkAJb7reI

Here is our knowledge book on how to install CrossOver and Starresoft software on a MAC. - https://starresoft.helpspot.com/index.php?pg=kb.chapter&id=129

8.24. Can this software be run on a Linux computer?

Yes, it can run on a Linux computer with the help of a third party piece of software.  We have tested the software using a product from CodeWeavers called CrossOver.

Here is the web site for more information on this product. https://www.codeweavers.com/crossover

Here is our knowledge book on how to install CrossOver and Starresoft software on a Linux machine. - https://starresoft.helpspot.com/index.php?pg=kb.chapter&id=130

8.25. Can this software be run on a Google Chromebook?

Yes, it can run on a Google Chromebook with the help of a third party piece of software.  We have tested the software using a product from CodeWeavers called CrossOver.

Here is the web site for more information on this product. https://www.codeweavers.com/crossover

Here is our knowledge book on how to install CrossOver and Starresoft software on a Chromebook. - https://starresoft.helpspot.com/index.php?pg=kb.chapter&id=131

8.26. Does this software automatically update/upgrade to the latest versions?

Does this software automatically update/upgrade to the latest versions?

The answer is NO!

The only way it upgrades/updates is if you ask it to perform an update. And all of our updates and upgrades are perfomed with a full installation procedure that you have to answer manually to run the installation. This is done by clicking on the New Version Available button, or clicking on the Help menu, then Check for Updates.

This will call and see if there is an update, or upgrade available. If on is available, it will ask you if you want to download and upgrade the software. It will also inform you that if you are not current with your Support/Upgrades/Updates license (meaning if you purchased the software within the last 365 days) that the upgrade may not be free.

To help explain or further clarify this, here are some explanations.

If you have say version 5.1, and version 5.6 is available for download, then this is a free upgrade no matter when you purchased it.

If you have version 5.1 and version 6.0 is available for download, then it is only free if you had originally purchased within the last 365 days. Otherwise there is an upgrade fee that would need to be paid to obtain the new Registration Codes to unlock the software from a Trial version.

If you have any concerns or do not know if you are eligible for an upgrade, please just ask us and we will let you know your eligibility status.

But to repeat, we do not automatically update or upgrade the software ever, as this option is not available in our software.

If you have some sort of automatic software running that checks for updates and performs the installation for you, there is nothing we can do about it because this is out of our control.

 

8.27. Can I roll back to a previous version if I upgraded to a new version?

If you inadvertently upgraded to the latest version of the software and need to go back to a version that you purchased and are no longer under Support Maintenance, and do not wish to purchase the upgrade, here is what you would need to do.

You need to uninstall the software you upgraded to.  Re-install the old version, then run a Restore of a Backup of the database from that version.  You cannot just install the old version as the database has already been upgraded to the new version you installed.  If you do not have a backup of the older database, we can manually convert the database back, but there would be a 1 hour Support Fee that would need to be purchased for us to perform this task.  As it takes a while to manually convert the database back.  Here is the link to purchase the 1 hour of our time to perform this.  Support Charge

We would then need a current backup of the database and attach it to a ticket so we can perform the process and send it back for you to Restore.

Backup my data files and attach to a ticket instructions.

8.28. Backup my data files and attach to my ticket.

If you run across some issues and the Support Team asks you to backup your data files and attach them to the ticket, here are the instructions on how to do this.

Click on the Windows Start button on your desktop and browse over to Star Bill of Lading, (Utilities - if below W10), and select Backup-Restore Data Files Utility as shown.

This will run the Backup/Restore Utility.

You would then select the location of the backup file you want to create/save.

Click on the folder to select a location to store the backup files.

This will display the folder selection screen.

The best location for you to use is probably your Desktop, as it is easy to find.  However, you can use whatever location on your system you want.  After you select where you want the file to be saved to, click on the save button. You can also change the name of the zip file. If you do change it, be sure to include the suffix .zip at the end of the name.

This will take you back to the main screen of the backup utility.

 When you get back to this screen, click on Backup to perform the actual backup of the data files.

If using the Web Ticket, here are the instructions to attach a file.

Click on the Choose File button when updating your ticket.

Browse to your Desktop and select the file you just created - bolfiles.zip and click the Open Button.

This will load the file to be uploaded, and finish by clicking on the Update Request Button.

 

9.1. Read Only Error

The User you have setup to use this software either does not have read/write access to the files, or the files that are being accessed, have a property of Read Only.

To fix this, you need to check the properties of the files and be sure they are set to a read/write setting.  This will correct the problem.

9.2. Read Only Error - Instructions to fix

To fix the properties of the files you need to perform the following steps.

You will need to find out where the data files reside. To do this, just run the Network Workstation Setup Utility that was installed with the program. To run, just click on the Windows Start button, then Programs, Star Bill of Lading 5/6, Utilities, Network Workstation Setup Utility.

This program will display where your data files reside and are being accessed from.

You can exit this program after you know where they are.

Using Windows Explorer (Not Internet Explorer), which you can access by Right-Clicking on the Windows Start Button, then clicking on Explore. You will need to browse to the location of the files. When you have found the data files, you will need to select or click on them, then Right-Click on them, and select Properties. This will display the properties of the files. Be sure that each one is not listed or checked as Read-Only. If they are, you will need to remove this check to allow for full access to the files.

Be sure to check all the files listed.

When finished, check to see if the program runs correctly.

If this does not solve the problem, please contact your Systems Security personnel and inform of the read only problem.

9.3. Could not convert variant of type (null) into type (double)

This error occurs when the user tries to create a new BOL without having a BOL number.

On the main screen click the setup menu--->System Shipper Setup Properties or press the F4 key from the main screen to enter the System Shipper Setup Properties screen.(shortcut)

Check the box next to Modifiable BOL# to manually key in a BOL# for each new BOL created or you can enter a value in the box next to Last BOL# ( each new BOL created, when this box is checked, will advance in progression from this starting value.)

There are also more options that allow the system to associate the BOL# . You can choose to have your BOL# print as your order#, Customer's Order#, or Carrier#. To find these options, click the Setup Options Button at the bottom of the System/Shipper Setup Properties screen or select the Setup menu on the main screen then select Displayed/Option Selections. On the System Settings Tab choose the Printed Bol# option you would like to use in the "Printed BOL# will be from" drop down box.

9.4. Error Code 5185

You must be running this software under a Terminal Services or RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) environment. Is this true? If so, this version of the software will not run because of restrictions placed by the database manufacturer SAP. If you need to be able to run under this environment, then you would need to purchase the SAP Advantage Database Server Software.

* If you can use a different remote control workstation software like Teamviewer or Remote Utilities, you can run the software fine.  Just cannot do this with Remote Desktop because of the SAP restrictions without purchasing their DB software. *

Here is the current price list for the SAP Advantage Database C/S Software:

1 User Server - $159.00
2 User Server - $269.00
3 User Server - $450.00
5 User Server - $650.00
10 User Server - $1240.00
If a solution for more concurrent users are needed, please contact SAP for pricing.

If interested, you can contact SAP directly at: SAP - ADS Sales team

You will need to know the max number of users that would be connecting to the software concurrently (at the same time).  As there are different price points based on the number of concurrent users needed.

Here is the explanation of the error code from the manufacturer.

Error 5185
Advantage Local Server connections are restricted when used from a web server, an application server, a terminal server, or any other type of middleware or server product used to access data on behalf of remote computers.
If you receive this error, it is because your application attempted to make a local server connection from one of these restricted environments.

If an application using this SOFTWARE PRODUCT is distributed to work without the Advantage Database Server (i.e., it uses the Advantage Local Server to access data), the application must act as a "client" that directly accesses and uses the data. To be specific, only computers that have the Advantage Local Server DLL loaded into memory can have access to the data that is obtained by that Advantage Local Server DLL. The application cannot act as "middleware" or as a "server" by having the data forwarded by any means to a separate computer. In other words, it is illegal to use the Advantage Local Server with a web server, an application server, a terminal server, or any other type of middleware or server product to access data on behalf of remote computers. An Advantage Database Server (a.k.a., remote server) product must be purchased and used to allow this SOFTWARE PRODUCT to access data on behalf of applications running on remote computers.

9.5. Error Code 5004 - Cannot find files

9.6. Error Code - 5035 - Could not obtain record lock.

When you ran the software the program is trying to obtain a record lock on the record to be displayed but there is someone else that already has that record locked.  You will need to close the program and try loading it again.  If this does not work, check with the others that are running the program to see if they are just sitting on the record, or actually editing it. Normally this is just a timing issue, as they would be actually editing the record, as re-running should release the record in question.

This issue should only possibly occur with the Network Edition..

 

 

9.7. Error 5033: No connected server was found for the given drive letter.

Somehow the connection to the data files on your server was severed. You just need to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility to re-point the program to the data file location on your server or shared workstation.

Below are the instructions to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility to point to your data....

 

9.8. Error Code 7009 - Problem with Advantage Database Server File Write

Solution:
Check the network volume for available disk space or a bad sector.

9.9. Error Code 7010 - Index Error

Run the following program.  Click on the Windows Start Button,
then Programs, Star Bill of Lading, 4,5/6/7/8, Utilities, Index Rebuild Utility.  This
will run a program to rebuild your indexes.  Be sure that the location of the
files in the program match where you data files reside.  Then click Re-Build.
This should resolve your issue.  Also, make sure nobody is accessing the data files.

9.10. Error Code 7017, 7058 - Index Corruption

You have encountered an Index File Corruption.

You need you to run the following program.  Click on the Windows Start Button,
then All Programs, Star Bill of Lading, Utilities, Index Rebuild Utility. 

This will run a program to rebuild your indexes.  Be sure that the location of the
files in the program match where you data files reside.  Then click Re-Build.

This should resolve your issue.  Also, make sure nobody is accessing the data files.

9.11. Error Code - 7038 - Invalid Record Number

This means one of your file indexes are corrupted.  To fix this, follow these instructions.

How to run the File Index Rebuild procedure.

 

9.12. Error Code 7057

The problem is that you are trying to create a duplicate Bill of Lading record.  This can be caused by a few different options.  Here is a list of things to look for and answer.

1. Are you sure you clicked on the New button to create a new bill?

2. Did you create a new Shipper?  If so, are you sure that it contains a unique Shipper number?  This is listed on the Shipper Setup Screen - It is listed in Red.  Make sure that no other shipper is listed with this number.

3. Did you possibly change the Last Bill of Lading number in the Shipper Setup?  This could cause this problem too.

 

To exit the program, click Ctrl + Alt + Delete to end the program. Then run the program again and go to the shipper setup to check Last BOL#: Change this if necessary.

 

9.13. BOL Detail file issue - Closing Program.

Usually this can come up if using the Network Edition and the end user that is trying to run the application does not have full Read/Write/Control - Security permissions to the database folder.  They may have Read/Write permissions but they need Full Control also.

9.14. E985 - Error Message - The running application version (xx.xx) does not match the current database version (xx.xx)

This error message basically states that the version you have installed and are trying to run does not match the database version that the application is trying to open. This is because the database that stores all you information has been updated to the listed version in the message and cannot be opened by a previous version. 

If this is on a Network Edition, this means that one or more of the other workstations that access the same database has upgraded to the version number listen in the message.  You will need to install the same version on each of the workstations.

Here is why the error occurred - When the newer version was installed, the database was converted to certain changes that is not compatible with a previous version.  If you have no other choice but to install this older version, you would need to uninstall the application along with the database and a new database will automatically be built, but you would lose your current information that is stored.

9.15. Bill will not print to the selected printer. Does nothing.

Make sure that you have filled in at least one Detail line item.  

This would be the section that contains the Qty, UM, Description of Articles, Etc.  If nothing is filled in, then the printer will not print the bill.

If for some reason you would like to print a bill without any detail records,  you can tab over to the Description of Articles and place a blank space bar entry into this field and then the bill with print, of course it will just print a blank detail line item.

 

9.16. Bill of Lading Program has encountered a problem and needs to close.

 

There are two things you should check.

1. Be sure to have installed into the default folder during installation.

2. Make sure that the user on that machine has full access (Read/Write) access to both the data folder that contains the files and the data files themselves.

More than likely it is the second option.

9.17. Corrupted BOLH message

It looks like you have corrupted a file in the system.
 
This can usually occur if power outages, or something of this nature.  

You have a couple of options. 

If you have a current backup prior to the issue, you can of course
perform a restore of the data files.  This is your best option.

If you are current with your Support/Upgrades/Updates license and you do not have a current backup, you can backup the data files  and email them to us.  We may be able to fix the problem.  This ooption is only valid for Customers that are current with their support.

To send us the files, just click on the Windows Start button, then All
Programs, Star Bill of Lading 6, Utilities, Backup-Restore Data Files Utility.  
This  will run the Backup-Restore Data Files Utility.  Here you can create a
.zip file of the current data files.  Just run the backup portion of this
and specify a named .zip file. 

Then just email this zip file to support @ starre.com. 

We will see what we can do and email back the fixed .zip file so you can
perform the restore on this fixed file. Be sure to include your Company name along with your contact information.

9.18. Cannot find import;DLL may be missing, corrupt, or wrong version File "gdiplus.dll", error 126

The gdiplus.dll is a file used by the Windows directory and is not an error within our software.
For some reason the file gdiplus.dll must have been deleted from your system.
Probably from a spyware remover or some other option. It is a needed microsoft file.
You can download and install this file from microsoft via their web site at:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=6A63AB9C-DF12-4D41-933C-BE590FEAA05A&displaylang=en

Or, just run a google search on the gdiplus.dll file for other locations to download this file.

If after you install this file, this should take care of the error message.

10.1. How to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility

This demo will show you how to run the Workstation Configuration Setup Utility to set the URL of the data files on your server or shared workstation.

Workstation Configuration Setup Utility Demo

 

11.1. System Requirements

Microsoft Windows XP/Vista, 7, 8, W10, W11 operating systems.

MAC using Wine, or using Codeweavers Crossover for MAC.

Linux using Codeweavers Crossover for Linux.

Minimum 20 MB of free hard disk space

CD-ROM drive to install from CD

133 MHz processor or higher

32 MB of memory or higher

VGA or higher monitor resolution displayed at 1024x768 pixels minimum and at least a minimum of 256 colors. Scaling must be set to 100%.

12.1. How To Enter Registrations Codes.

To properly Enter your registration codes follow these instructions.

Exit the program.
Click on the Windows Start button, then All Apps, Star Bill of Lading, Utilities, Register Program.

This will display a window to enter your User Name and Key.

Just enter the codes that were sent to you and click OK.

 

12.2. How To Enter Registration Code - Windows 8

If you need to enter your registration codes and your operating system is Windows 8, you can enter them by first doing a search. From the desktop, just tap WINKEY (or CTRL + ESC) and start typing. The standard Search appears, with a search pane on the right. Or, if you're already at the Start screen, just start typing.

As you type a search,

search results appear on the left.

Then all you need to do is select the program from the list that you wish to register.

A dialog box will appear and simply enter the name and key into the fields.

You must enter the information exactly as it appears on the e-mail you received.
After you have filled in the fields, click OK.

Your program is now registered.

12.3. Registration codes sent are correct.

The User Name and Registration Key that you received are correct for the version you purchased.

Here are a few things you should check.

Make sure that you copied the codes correctly. There are no letter O's in the Registration Key. They would be zeros. This is a common mistake.

Also, be sure to enter the User Name & Key exactly as received. The User Name and Key are Case Sensitive..

Check the version you installed. It must match against the information sent to you. You can check this by running the program, then clicking on the Help menu, then click on About. This will indicate the version and edition. They need to match what was purchased. Which would normally be the latest version available for download from our web site.

Check all of these options.

If after you have followed these steps and are still unable to register the program, please contact our Support Desk at http://support.starresoft.com/index.php?pg=request for further assistance.

12.4. Upgrade Purchase Options for Customers who have an older version and not under Support Maintenance..

For Customer who are no longer under Support Maintenance, and want/need to purchase the Upgrade of the software, you can purchase it from here:

Upgrade Purchasing options for Customers no longer under Support Maintenance.

12.5. What does the Support Maintenance license cover?

When you purchase the Star Bill of Lading software from us, you get a full year of Support from our Help Desk, whether by email or by phone.

As long as you do not have a customized version of the software, you also have the option to update the software when new updates become available. Due to the issues with SPAM emailing we do not notify our customers directly at this time. You can check for updates at anytime from inside the program. Just click on the Help menu, then select "Check for Updates". This will check our web site for a newer version. If an update is available it will then prompt you to download the latest version and install.

Also included are any Upgrades that come out within a period of 1 calendar year from the date of original purchase. If during the first year a new version is released, you are eligible for a free Upgrade to the current version. For example: version 12.XX is released and you are running version 11.XX. If there is an Upgrade available, you will need to contact us to receive a new set of Registration Codes to unlock the newer version. Contact us via our Help Desk and we will send you the new codes. *

* This is only valid for customers that are current with the Support Maintenance license, and do not have a customized version of the software.

If your Support Maintenance license has expired, you will no longer be able to update or upgrade the software. Also the Support via the Help Desk is very limited, and you will no longer be eligible for phone support. If you do need Support, we would have to charge you for the Support in advance. Our current rate for Support with customers that are not current, is $175.00 per hour, with a minimum 1 hour charge.

After your initial year of Support Maintenance our systems automatically generates an Order/Invoice for an Additional Year of Support Maintenance. This is mailed to you one month prior to your license expiring and sent to the address we have on file from the original purchase. If it happens to come back as undelivered, we make all attempts to correct the address, via email, or calling you or your Company.

When you pay the invoice, we update our records with the payment and extend your Support Maintenance license for an additional year.

Included on the invoice, there is an option to purchase the latest version to be shipped to you on either CD, or USB drive.  The additional costs are listed on the invoice for each media type.  There is also an option for Media (None), which means there will not be a copy of the software shipped to you.  It is only available via download.

If you do not pay the invoice, that is fine as the current version you are running will not expire, you would no longer be eligible for Support, Updates or Upgrades.

If you are expired from the Support Maintenance licensing, do not attempt to Upgrade, as your Original Registration codes will not work with the newer version, and you would have to purchase the Upgrade version to get it back up and running. You can check the status of your license by contacting us via our Help Desk.

12.6. Why did the price of the Support Maintenance increase?

I understand your concern on the new Support Maintenance pricing. Hopefully this will serve as an explanation of the adjustments we had to make.
Originally the purchase price of the software was $184.00 (SE)/$284.00 (NE) in 2011 (v7.xx). With that purchase, the cost of the Yearly Support Maintenance license cost was $59.95/$99.95 ($69.95/$109.95 shipped on CD). Since then, we have had a couple of price increases with the new versions that have been released (v8.xx, and v9.xx). Since there is so much more value that has been added over the years, we have had to increase the software pricing to cover the increased costs of development, advertising, expenses, etc. As most companies have had to do over a period of time. We have tried to keep the cost of the Support/Upgrades/Updates to a minimum, which is around 35% of the price of the software. When the price increase for version 8 came along, we actually did not raise the Support/Upgrades/Updates fee to coincide with the new software pricing, which if you ask, I really don't have the answer to why it did not increase. Set forth with the release of v9.xx, the adjustment had to be made to pricing, thus the increase which is about 35% of the price of the software. Hopefully that explains the reason for the increase. Also, if using the Network Edition, there is much more Support requirements from our Customers to keep them up and running on multiple workstations and without issues. 

As far as other options, of course you can stop paying for the Support, which would stop any Upgrades/Updates that are made to the software at no extra cost. It would also switch you to a Hourly Support Fee if you run across any issues that need to be fixed, or assistance needed. That hourly rate is $175.00 per hour per incident. Also, if you would need to upgrade/update based on changes handed down from DOT, you would be basically be required to re-purchase the software (with a minimal discount) at a price of $180.00/$380.00. So, as you can see the value is definitely there to keep with the yearly Support/Upgrades/Updates license, as you know it would not cost any more than the $89.95/$179.95 for the year depending on the version.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. 

12.7. EULA - End User License Agreement

End User License Agreement for Starre Enterprises Software

This EULA is a legal agreement between you (either an individual or a single entity) and Starre Enterprises for the Starre Enterprises Software accompanying this EULA, which includes the accompanying computer software, and may include associated media, printed materials and any "online" or electronic documentation ("SOFTWARE").  By installing the SOFTWARE, you agree to be bound by the terms of this EULA.  If you do not agree to the terms of this EULA, you may not install or use the SOFTWARE.

SOFTWARE PRODUCT LICENSE

The SOFTWARE is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws and treaties.  The SOFTWARE is licensed, not sold.

1. GRANT OF LICENSE.  This EULA grants you the following rights:

   · SINGLE USER EDITION VERSION of Software.   You may install, use, access, display, run, or otherwise interact with ("RUN") one copy of the SOFTWARE, on a single computer, workstation, or other digital electronic device ("COMPUTER").  The primary user of the COMPUTER on which the SOFTWARE is installed may make a second copy for his or her exclusive use on a portable computer.  

   · NETWORK EDITION VERSION of Software.   You may install, use, access, display, run, or otherwise interact with ("RUN") up to 5 concurrent copies of the SOFTWARE, on single computers, workstations, or other digital electronic device ("COMPUTER").  The same license is to be used on each of the concurrent COMPUTERS.

   · Storage.  You may also store a copy of the SOFTWARE INSTALLATION on a storage device, such as a network server.  A license for the SOFTWARE if Single User Edition may not be shared or used concurrently on different COMPUTERS.

   · Reservation of Rights.  All rights not expressly granted are reserved by Starre Enterprises.  

   · Accessing Services Using the SOFTWARE.  Your use of any service accessible using the SOFTWARE is not covered by this EULA and may be governed by separate terms of use, conditions or notices.  

2. RESTRICTIONS. 
   · You must maintain all copyright notices on all copies of the SOFTWARE.

   · Limitations of Reverse Engineering, Decompilation and Disassembly.  You may 
not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the SOFTWARE, except and only to the extent that such activity is permitted by applicable law notwithstanding this limitation.

   · Rental. You may not rent or lease or lend the SOFTWARE.  

   · Software Transfer.  You may permanently transfer all of your rights under this EULA one time, provided you retain no copies, you transfer all of the SOFTWARE (including all component parts, the media and printed materials, any upgrades, this EULA and, if applicable, the Certificate of Authenticity), you do not receive any payment or other compensation for transferring the SOFTWARE and the recipient agrees to the terms of this EULA.  If the SOFTWARE portion is an upgrade, any transfer must include all prior versions of the SOFTWARE.

   · Support Services.  Starre Enterprises may provide you with support services related to the SOFTWARE ("Support Services"), in its discretion.  Use of Support Services, if any, is governed by the Starre Enterprises policies and programs described in the user manual, in "online" documentation, and/or other Starre Enterprises-provided materials.  Any supplemental software code provided to you as a part of Support Services shall be considered part of the SOFTWARE and subject to the terms of this EULA.  With respect to technical information you provide to Starre Enterprises as part of the Support Services, Starre Enterprises may use such information for its business purposes, including for product support and development.  Starre Enterprises will not utilize such technical information in a form that personally identifies you except to the extent necessary to provide you with support. 

   · Replacement, Modification and Upgrade of the Software.  Starre Enterprises reserves the right to replace,  modify or upgrade the SOFTWARE at any time by offering you a replacement or modified version of the SOFTWARE or such upgrade and to charge for such replacement, modification or upgrade.  Any such replacement or modified software code or upgrade to the SOFTWARE offered to you by Starre Enterprises shall be considered part of the SOFTWARE and subject to the terms of this EULA (unless this EULA is superceded by a further EULA accompanying such replacement or modified version of or upgrade to the SOFTWARE).  In the event that Starre Enterprises offers a replacement or modified version of or any upgrade to the SOFTWARE, (a) your continued use of the SOFTWARE is conditioned on your acceptance of such replacement or modified version of or upgrade to the SOFTWARE and any accompanying superceding EULA and (b) in the case of the replacement or modified SOFTWARE, your use of all prior versions of the SOFTWARE is terminated. 

3. TERMINATION.  Without prejudice to any other rights, Starre Enterprises may terminate this EULA if you fail to comply with the terms and conditions of this EULA.  Starre Enterprises may terminate this EULA by offering you a superceding EULA for the SOFTWARE or any replacement or modified version of or upgrade to the SOFTWARE and conditioning your continued use of the SOFTWARE or such replacement, modified or upgraded version on your acceptance of such superceding EULA.  In addition, Starre Enterprises may terminate this EULA by notifying you that your continued use of the SOFTWARE is prohibited.  In the event that Starre Enterprises terminates this EULA, you must immediately stop using the SOFTWARE and destroy all copies of the SOFTWARE and all of its component parts.

4. COPYRIGHT.  All title and copyrights in and to the SOFTWARE (including but not limited to any images, photographs, animations, video, audio, music, text and "applets," incorporated into the SOFTWARE), the accompanying printed materials, and any copies of the SOFTWARE, are owned by Starre Enterprises or its suppliers.  All title and intellectual property rights in and to the content which may be accessed through use of the SOFTWARE is the property of the respective content owner and may be protected by applicable copyright or other intellectual property laws and treaties.  This EULA grants you no rights to use such content.  If this SOFTWARE contains documentation which is provided only in electronic form, you may print one copy of such electronic documentation.  You may not copy the printed materials accompanying the SOFTWARE.

5. EXPORT RESTRICTIONS. You agree that you will not export or re-export the SOFTWARE, any part thereof, or any process or service that is the direct product of the SOFTWARE (the foregoing collectively referred to as the "Restricted Components"), to any country, person or entity subject to U.S. export restrictions.  You specifically agree not to export or re-export any of the Restricted Components (i) to any country to which the U.S. has embargoed or restricted the export of goods or services, which currently include, but are not necessarily limited to Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Sudan and Syria, or to any national of any such country, wherever located, who intends to transmit or transport the Restricted Components back to such country; (ii) to any person or entity who you know or have reason to know will utilize the Restricted Components in the design, development or production of nuclear, chemical or biological weapons; or (iii) to any person or entity who has been prohibited from participating in U.S. export transactions by any federal agency of the U.S. government.  You warrant and represent that neither the U.S. Commerce Department, Bureau of Export Administration nor any other U.S. federal agency has suspended, revoked or denied your export privileges.

6. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES.  Starre Enterprises AND ITS SUPPLIERS PROVIDE THE SOFTWARE "AS IS" AND WITH ALL FAULTS, AND HEREBY DISCLAIM ALL OTHER WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS, EITHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY (IF ANY) IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY, OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OF LACK OF VIRUSES, AND OF LACK OF NEGLIGENCE OR LACK OF WORKMANLIKE EFFORT.  ALSO, THERE IS NO WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF TITLE, OF QUIET ENJOYMENT, OR OF NONINFRINGEMENT.  THE ENTIRE RISK ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE SOFTWARE IS WITH YOU. 

7. EXCLUSION OF ALL DAMAGES.  TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT SHALL Starre Enterprises OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, OR OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR ANY INJURY TO PERSON OR PROPERTY, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION, FOR LOSS OF PRIVACY FOR FAILURE TO MEET ANY DUTY INCLUDING OF GOOD FAITH OR OF REASONABLE CARE, FOR NEGLIGENCE, AND FOR ANY PECUNIARY OR OTHER LOSS WHATSOEVER) ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY RELATED TO THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE SOFTWARE, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF Starre Enterprises OR ANY SUPPLIER HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.  THIS EXCLUSION OF DAMAGES SHALL BE EFFECTIVE EVEN IF ANY REMEDY FAILS OF ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE. 

8. LIMITATION AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY.  Starre Enterprises has included in this EULA terms that disclaim all warranties and liability for the SOFTWARE.  To the full extent allowed by law, YOU HEREBY RELEASE Starre Enterprises AND ITS SUPPLIERS FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY ARISING FROM OR RELATED TO ALL CLAIMS CONCERNING THE SOFTWARE OR ITS USE.  If you do not wish to accept the SOFTWARE under the terms of this EULA, do not install the SOFTWARE.  

9. GOVERNING LAW.  If you acquired the SOFTWARE in the United States of America, the laws of the State of North Carolina, U.S.A will apply to this contract.  If you acquired this SOFTWARE outside of the United States of America, then local law may apply. 
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13.1. Version History

The Version History for this product is available.

To view the complete history follow this link: Version History