The bid for the proceeding month closes on the 9th of every month. So that afternoon/evening is when when you 'know' your schedule the following month and what you're working with. After that, you can start manipulating your awarded line on the 11th via trip trade giveaway, commonly known here as 'TTGA'. Basically it is a peer based trade and give for what you were awarded. You can advertise to give away or trade whole or portions of your awarded pairings or peruse what's available for trade or giveaway. (This is available until report time for said pairing). Then on the 25th, ELITT opens up, which is a trading system with the company for unassigned trips that usually stem from vacation, military drops etc.. It's a feeding frenzy the first hour or so when it opens, but this is where junior guys can vastly improve their schedule. Clear as mud?