What Pilotage Authorities Should Expect from Dispatch Software

Dispatching and billing are the core operational challenges for every pilotage authority, yet many still rely on manual processes or outdated tools. As pilot schedules grow more complex and compliance pressures increase, dispatch software needs to do more than just assign jobs. In this post, we break down what modern pilotage authorities should expect from a dispatch solution and how the right platform improves accuracy, efficiency, and revenue clarity.

The Operational Reality of Modern Pilotage

Today’s pilotage authorities face increasing demands:

  • More vessel traffic and tighter schedules

  • Complex job rotations, overtime, and recall scenarios

  • Strict licensing requirements and compliance audits

  • The need to coordinate pilots, dispatchers, and agents in real-time

  • Pressure to bill faster and more accurately

Traditional spreadsheets and legacy systems can’t keep up, and the gaps lead to errors, missed revenue, and workflow friction.

Core Features to Expect in a Pilotage Dispatch Platform

A modern dispatch software should go beyond scheduling. Look for:

Real-Time Dispatch Coordination

  • Assign pilots by location, availability, or seniority

  • Manage inbound/outbound activity, job status, and overlaps

  • Track pilot recalls, rest periods, and deferred leave

Accurate Billing & Charge Capture

  • Auto-calculate pilotage fees based on assignment details using a configurable tariff engine

  • Track multi-port and multi-leg assignments

  • Ensure every assignment is accounted for and billable

Pilot & Agent Access via Portal

  • Pilots see assignments, submit completions, and track schedules

  • Agents view vessel status and receive real-time updates

  • Reduces back-and-forth emails and phone calls

Compliance, Reporting, & Job Tracking

  • Monitor licensing thresholds (job count, hours)

  • Log training pilots, job pairings, and rest compliance

  • Generate audit-ready reports for regulatory review

Integration with Existing Port Systems
  • Connect with AIS, ERP, and port community platforms to share vessel, schedule, and billing data
  • Reduce duplicate entry and ensure information is consistent across systems

Why PilotIQ is Purpose-Built for Authorities

Unlike generic dispatch platforms, PilotIQ is built specifically for the needs of pilotage authorities. It’s already used across North America to:

  • Simplify scheduling for dispatchers and pilots

  • Streamline billing and reduce missed charges

  • Maintain full visibility into pilot workload and licensing

  • Provide reliable digital records and reduce administrative overhead

  • Support multi-port authorities with shared or distinct pilot pools

Whether you manage 10 pilots or 100, PilotIQ scales with your team and adapts to your workflows, not the other way around.

Conclusion: Dispatch Software Should Work Like a Member of Your Team

Pilotage dispatch doesn’t have room for error. With modern software, you gain a real-time view of your operations, automate billing, and ensure compliance — all from one secure system. PilotIQ gives pilotage authorities the tools to run smarter, faster, and with full confidence in every job that’s completed and billed.

Make Pilotage Simpler and Smarter

From real-time job tracking to automated billing, PilotIQ helps pilotage authorities stay organized, compliant, and in control. Say goodbye to spreadsheets and delays. Start coordinating your operation with clarity and confidence.

Schedule a personalized demo of PilotIQ today or call us at 1-833-231-6182.

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