How to prepare a job list for route planning
A useful route starts with a clear job list. Before choosing the stop order, make sure each row describes one visit and contains enough information to schedule it.
Start with the service address
Keep street, city, region, and postal code in separate columns when possible. Use the actual visit location, which may differ from a customer’s billing address. Flag incomplete addresses for review.
Separate arrival windows from service time
“Arrive between 9 and 11” and “allow 30 minutes” describe different constraints. Give each its own field. Include the date and local time zone, especially when jobs cross regions.
Keep identifiers and instructions
A stable job ID helps distinguish repeat visits from accidental duplicates. Put access instructions in a separate notes field and share them only with the people who need them.
Review the list before planning
- Check missing or ambiguous addresses.
- Confirm appointment windows and expected visit durations.
- Review duplicate job IDs and repeated addresses.
- Record the driver’s starting location, finish location, and working hours.
Download our example job-list template to see the suggested fields. It contains fictional sample jobs.